Search icon

South Island

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

Spend a Night in Milford Sound Aboard the Mariner

Experience Piopiotahi Milford Sound after the daytime visitors have left on a one-night cruise aboard the Milford Mariner. Depart from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal in the late afternoon and cruise beneath towering peaks, rainforest-covered cliffs and cascading waterfalls while your onboard nature guide shares stories about the fiord’s geology, history and wildlife.

Anchor in a sheltered cove and explore by kayak or tender boat when conditions allow, or simply relax on deck and take in the scenery. Enjoy a buffet dinner before settling into your private ensuite cabin, then wake to breakfast and an early-morning cruise towards the Tasman Sea before returning to the Milford Sound terminal.

Play

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.

  • 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.

Related Tours

Some other tours you might be interested in

Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.