Milford Sound Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries

Milford Sound, NZ
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (323 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Live commentary on board from our passionate skipper
  • inclusion
    Multi-lingual app for commentary available: App Store and Google Play search Southern Discoveries
  • inclusion
    Nature Cruise of up to 2 hours
  • inclusion
    Picnic lunch (if option selected)
  • inclusion
    FREE Tea and coffee

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks, unless specified
  • exclusion
    Alcoholic beverages
  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • exclusion
    On arrival at milford sound you can park at the milford sound carpark at a fee of $10 per hour.

Meeting Point

Check in at our Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Visitor Centre, which is clearly visible as soon as you enter the Milford Sound Terminal - Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679.

Meeting point

Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679 , New Zealand

End point

End Point

Check in at our Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Visitor Centre, which is clearly visible as soon as you enter the Milford Sound Terminal - Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679.

Meeting point

Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679 , New Zealand

End point

What to expect

1

Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Visitor Centre

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Your journey starts here, check in with friendly staff at least 15 minutes prior to departure.

Duration 10 minutes
2
Fiordland National Park (Te Wahipounamu)

Fiordland National Park is in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for the glacier-carved fiords of Doubtful and Milford sounds. A beech forest trail on the sandy Milford shore offers views of towering Mitre Peak.

Duration 105 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3
Milford Sound

Whatever the weather, our newly refurbished vessels offer unbeatable views through full height viewing windows. Make the most of out 360º decks which are perfect for that perfect photo. Our passionate skippers share their knowledge with lively and entertaining commentary. This is the perfect cruise for single travelers, couples and families with plenty of room to take in the views.

4
Bowen Falls

The stunning Lady Bowen Falls is Milford’s highest waterfall. It plunges 162m from a hanging valley into the head of Milford Sound and provides electricity for the Milford Sound township by feeding a small hydroelectric scheme, as well as being the water source for the settlement.

5

Mitre Peak

Mitre Peak is a beautifully dramatic mountain in the South Island of New Zealand, located on the shore of Milford Sound. It is one of the most photographed mountain peaks in the entire country.

6

Sinbad Gully

Nestled behind the world famous Mitre Peak, the Sinbad Gully is characterised by extremely steep glacially carved walls punctuated by near vertical granite cliffs. These walls slowed pest invasion into the gully and as a result a number of unique native species remain in the Sinbad. Southern Discoveries is passionate about preserving Milford Sound’s beauty for future generations which is why it’s a key partner in a major conservation project – the Sinbad Sanctuary Project. The aim is to see the valley of New Zealand’s most photographed mountain (Sinbad Gully is at the base of Mitre Peak) become a sanctuary for native species.

7

Stirling Falls

Milford’s second-highest waterfall is the Stirling Falls, a staggering 151m in height – three times the height of Niagara Falls, but the 1,300m mountain behind displaces this incredible height. This is the famous waterfall that Hugh Jackman ‘jumped off’ in the movie Wolverine. The sheer drop of the Stirling Falls allows boats to get right underneath – it’s an incredible feeling to have the power of 151m worth of glacial water falling so close to you.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Car Parking: On arrival at Milford Sound you can park at the Milford Sound carpark. Please allow 10 minutes to walk from the main carpark to the Milford Wharf Visitor Centre. Alternatively, you can park free of charge at Deepwater Basin Carpark and walk over to Freshwater Basin to the Cruise Terminal. This walk is approximately 30 minutes in duration, so additional time will need to be allocated in order to do this comfortably and arrive at the terminal 15 minutes prior to your cruise for check-in.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Please advise of your country of origin at the time of booking
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Specialized infant seats are available
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Southern Discoveries

What our experts say

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    Arrive early for the best seats
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    Consider a picnic lunch on board
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    Explore nearby hiking trails after
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    Dress in layers; it can get chilly
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    Check weather conditions before booking

More About this Experience

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound with the Milford Sound Nature Cruise. Led by a specialized Nature Guide, this intimate boat cruise offers an unforgettable experience within New Zealand's renowned Fiordland National Park. Get ready to be captivated by the stunning landscapes and natural wonders that have earned Milford Sound its title as the Eighth Wonder of the World.

What to Expect?

During the Milford Sound Nature Cruise, expect to be amazed by the immersive features and benefits this tour offers. As you step on board the purpose-built vessel, you'll have access to both indoor and outdoor observation decks that provide unbeatable viewing opportunities. From full-height viewing windows to 360º viewing decks, you won't miss a single moment of the incredible scenery. Prepare to witness majestic waterfalls, towering mountains, and the iconic Mitre Peak, which has become one of the most photographed mountain peaks in New Zealand.

Who is this for?

The Milford Sound Nature Cruise is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including individuals, couples, and families. Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the wonders of Fiordland National Park, while photography enthusiasts will find endless inspiration in the stunning landscapes. This cruise allows you to get up close and personal with Milford Sound's natural features, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking an unforgettable and immersive experience in New Zealand.

Why book this?

With longer water time compared to other tours, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise gives you the chance to fully appreciate the beauty of Milford Sound. The purpose-built vessels offer unbeatable views through full-height viewing windows, ensuring you won't miss a single moment of the breathtaking scenery. The passionate and knowledgeable skippers provide lively and entertaining commentary, enriching your experience with fascinating insights. Whether you're a solo traveler or exploring with loved ones, this cruise offers ample space to relax and take in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

Good to Know

While embarking on the Milford Sound Nature Cruise, remember to bring your camera to capture the stunning moments. The cruise lasts for approximately 105 minutes, allowing you plenty of time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Milford Sound. Don't forget to check in at the Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Visitor Centre, conveniently located at the Milford Sound Terminal. Be prepared for varying weather conditions and dress accordingly to ensure your comfort throughout the cruise.

Reviews

Customers who have experienced the Milford Sound Nature Cruise have been left in awe of the remarkable sights and captivating experience. They praise the knowledgeable and passionate Nature Guides who provide entertaining commentary, enhancing their appreciation of the surroundings. Guests also admire the purpose-built vessels with their full-height viewing windows, ensuring unobstructed views of the dramatic landscapes. Many visitors express their satisfaction with the longer water time and the opportunity to get up close to iconic attractions like the Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls. Overall, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise is highly recommended for those seeking an unforgettable journey through one of New Zealand's most stunning natural wonders.

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