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South Island

Start: Milford Sound
Duration: 2 days
Travel Time: 17 hours

The Milford Sound Overnight Cruise aboard the Mariner is a 17-hour Fiordland experience operating from September to early May. Departing from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal at approximately 4.00pm, the cruise includes a private ensuite cabin, buffet dinner, breakfast, nature commentary and kayaking or tender-boat exploration when conditions allow. The vessel returns at approximately 9.15am the following morning, and children are welcome when accompanied by an adult.

See Piopiotahi Milford Sound at Its Most Peaceful

A late-afternoon departure allows you to experience Piopiotahi Milford Sound after many day visitors have begun their journey home. Cruise beneath towering peaks, rainforest-covered cliffs and cascading waterfalls as the changing evening light transforms the landscape. The Milford Mariner anchors overnight in a sheltered cove, creating time to appreciate the remarkable stillness of the fiord.

Explore closer to the shoreline by kayak or tender boat when conditions permit, or relax on the spacious viewing decks while watching for fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins. After a buffet dinner and a comfortable night in your private ensuite cabin, wake to an early-morning cruise and breakfast onboard. The vessel continues towards the Tasman Sea, weather permitting, before returning to the Milford Sound terminal.

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The Milford Mariner is a purpose-built vessel inspired by a traditional trading scow and designed for comfortable overnight cruising in Fiordland.

  • Sleeps up to 64 guests
  • Private twin, double and single ensuite cabins
  • Limited quad-share bunk compartments with ensuites
  • Spacious viewing decks and observation lounge
  • Dining saloon and licensed bar
  • Carries 20 kayaks and two tender craft onboard

Highlights

  • Experience Milford Sound during the peaceful evening and early morning
  • Cruise beneath dramatic peaks, rainforest and waterfalls
  • Explore sheltered coves and shoreline areas from the water
  • Watch for fur seals, dolphins and Fiordland crested penguins
  • See the fiord’s scenery change with the light and weather
  • Enjoy wide views from the outdoor decks and observation lounge
  • One night aboard the Milford Mariner
  • Private ensuite cabin
  • Buffet dinner and breakfast
  • Afternoon refreshments, tea and coffee
  • Specialist nature commentary
  • Kayaking or tender boat activity, weather permitting
  • Bedding and towels

What to Bring

Only one carry-on bag is recommended for passenger convenience and for safety reasons. Don't forget the following:

  • Non-slip walking shoes/boots
  • Waterproof jacket *
  • Warm sweater/fleece jacket
  • Change of clothes *
  • Sunscreen/sunglasses
  • Insect repellent *
  • Swimwear (optional)
  • Camera
  • Personal medication, including for asthma and allergies

* Essential items if you are doing any water activities.

Departure Times

  • Departs: 4pm
  • Returns: 9:15am (following day)
  • Adult: 16 years +
  • Children: 3-15 years, children must be accompanied by an adult, including in their room overnight - twin room recommended.
  • Infant: 2 years and under.
  • 14 days or more before departure: Full refund**.
  • Less than 14 days: No refund
  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

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 Milford Sound overnight cruise aboard the Milford Mariner departs from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal. Queenstown and Te Anau transfers are available between October and April.

The cruise departs at approximately 4 pm and returns around 9.15 am the following day, giving a total duration of about 17 hours.

The Milford Mariner offers private twin, double and single cabins with ensuite bathrooms. Limited quad-share bunk-style compartments with ensuites may also be available.

A buffet dinner and cooked and continental breakfast are included, along with afternoon refreshments and complimentary tea and coffee.

Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, but you may see New Zealand fur seals, bottlenose dolphins, Fiordland crested penguins and native seabirds.

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