Non-slip shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, sunscreen/sunglasses, insect repellent and camera.Personal medication including for asthma and allergies.

Adult: 16 years +Children: 5-15 yearsInfant: Under 5 years

Milford Sound Signature Cruise

South Island

RealNZ

from

NZ$169

per adult

Book Now

Milford mariner stirling falls viewing deck

Experiences

Cruises

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Milford Sound

Travel Time: 2 hours

The Milford Sound Signature Cruise is a relaxed two-hour cruise-only experience departing from the Milford Sound terminal aboard either the Milford Mariner or Milford Haven. Ideal for travellers driving independently, both vessels provide comfortable indoor lounges, outdoor viewing areas and expert nature commentary. Food and drinks are available onboard, and the cruise is suitable for all ages. Transport from Queenstown or Te Anau is not included.

Discover the Landmarks and Wildlife of Piopiotahi

Cruise the length of Piopiotahi Milford Sound past Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, Seal Rock and sheltered Harrison Cove. Knowledgeable nature guides share stories about the fiord’s geology, history and wildlife while helping passengers watch for New Zealand fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins. The two-hour duration provides a leisurely alternative to the shorter Classic Cruise, with plenty of time to enjoy the changing scenery from inside or outdoors.

The Milford Haven offers an extensive rooftop viewing deck, spacious indoor lounge and relaxed contemporary atmosphere, while the Milford Mariner draws inspiration from a traditional New Zealand trading scow and features expansive decks, a dining saloon and observation lounge. Both vessels provide excellent sightseeing in Fiordland’s famously changeable weather, with barista coffee, local craft beer, fresh refreshments and optional food available onboard. Departures generally operate at 10.30am, 1.00pm and 3.25pm from October to April, with 11.00am and 1.30pm services from May to September; the 3.25pm departure operates from November to April only.

Milford mariner between cliffs fiordland

Lady bowen falls milford sound waterfall landscape

Milford sound sunlight through native trees

Mitre peak milford sound crisp winter morning

Cruise Highlights

Comfortable indoor lounges and outdoor viewing decks with uninterrupted fiord views
Local food and drinks available onboard, including barista coffee and craft beer
Commentary from knowledgeable local nature guides
Opportunities to spot native wildlife, including seals, dolphins and penguins
Approximate cruise duration of 2 hours

Non-slip shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, sunscreen/sunglasses, insect repellent and camera.
Personal medication including for asthma and allergies.

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 5-15 years
Infant: Under 5 years

More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
Within 24 hours: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

The Signature Cruise is longer, at approximately 2 hours, and offers a more relaxed experience aboard a character-filled vessel. The Classic Cruise is shorter at approximately 1.5 hours and is a good-value option for travellers with less time.

Yes. This cruise is ideal if you are making your own way to Milford Sound and want to join a scenic cruise from the terminal. If you need transport included, choose a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown or Te Anau instead.

The Milford Sound Signature Cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you a more leisurely experience than the 1.5-hour Classic Cruise.

No. This is a cruise-only option departing from Milford Sound. Coach transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau are not included with this product.

Yes. Local food and drinks are available onboard, including barista coffee, craft beer and fresh refreshments.