Milford Sound
Cruises

The original Milford Sound boat cruise company, and still the best.

Nestled within Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a pristine haven for birdlife, dolphins, fur seals and endangered species such as the Fiordland Crested Penguin. A marvel at any time of year and in any weather, the Sound is rich in geological formations, captivating waterfalls and unsurprisingly, one of the most impressive scenic day trips to do in New Zealand.

Discover more and get closer to this world-renowned area with a Milford Sound nature cruise

Upcoming Departures

All upcoming departures

Wed 22 Oct

9:30 am

2h 15m

9:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

Book

Wed 22 Oct

10:30 am

1h 45m

10:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Book

Wed 22 Oct

11:15 am

1h 45m

11:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Book

Wed 22 Oct

12:30 pm

2h 15m

12:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $238.00

Book

Wed 22 Oct

1:15 pm

1h 45m

1:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Book

Wed 22 Oct

1:30 pm

1h 45m

1:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Book

Wed 22 Oct

2:45 pm

2h 15m

2:45 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

Book

Wed 22 Oct

3:15 pm

1h 45m

3:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Book

Thu 23 Oct

9:00 am

Milford Track Walk + Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $240.00

Book

Thu 23 Oct

9:30 am

2h 15m

9:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

Book

Wed 22 Oct

9:30 am

9:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

2h 15m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

10:30 am

10:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

1h 45m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

11:15 am

11:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

1h 45m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

12:30 pm

12:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $238.00

2h 15m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

1:15 pm

1:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

1h 45m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

1:30 pm

1:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

1h 45m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

2:45 pm

2:45 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

2h 15m

Upgrades available

Book

Wed 22 Oct

3:15 pm

3:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $165.00

1h 45m

Upgrades available

Book

Thu 23 Oct

9:00 am

Milford Track Walk + Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $240.00

Upgrades available

Book

Thu 23 Oct

9:30 am

9:30 Milford Sound Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

2h 15m

Upgrades available

Book

Cruises

Nature Cruise

from $165.00

Join this incredible Milford Sound scenic cruise with a friendly team and 70 years of local experience. From the open-top deck or inside through full-height windows, you’re about to get closer and see more with Milford Sound’s original cruise operator.

Book Now Find out more

Discover More Cruise

from $169.15

Our longest and most immersive Milford Sound experience featuring an onboard Nature Guide, wildlife encounters, and a relaxed pace—perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with this breathtaking natural wonder.

Book Now Find out more

Milford Sound Cruise & Milford Sound Track

from $240.00

Experience Milford Sound by land and sea with an unforgettable journey. Hike the famous Milford Track to the stunning Giant Gates Falls for a relaxing picnic and swim. Then, explore the breathtaking beauty of the fiord on a Milford Sound Nature Cruise, offering two incredible perspectives of this natural wonder.

Book Now Find out more

Farm Tour & Milford Sound Nature Cruise

from $244.00

Why stop at just Milford Sound? Add another unforgettable Kiwi experience to your Fiordland experience. Visit a working farm to feed animals, watch sheep shearing and working dogs in action, then explore Milford Sound's iconic scenery and wildlife by boat.

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Specials & Combos

See all Specials

15% off Discover More Cruise

Make the most of Milford Sound on our Discover More Cruise – our longest cruise on the fiord. With extra time on the water, you’ll journey further, get close to waterfalls and wildlife, all while enjoying expert insights from the nature guide. For a limited time, this unforgettable experience is available at a special discounted rate.

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Save 15% Milford Sound Discover More Coach & Cruise

Travel deeper into Milford Sound with our Coach & Discover More Cruise. Sit back on a premium coach journey from Queenstown or Te Anau, complete with expert commentary and photo stops. On arrival, board our longest cruise for more time to explore the fiord. Available now at a special limited-time discount of 15% off.

Book Now More info

Chinese New Year Celebration Cruise

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2026, the Year of the Horse, with an unforgettable Milford Sound Nature Cruise.

Savour a hot seafood platter, "To Kai" Buffet, and a glass of wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic drink while enjoying the luxury of reserved Cascade or Sutherland room seating and breathtaking views of Milford Sound’s natural beauty.

Book Now More info

FAQ

Where does the Milford Sound day cruise leave from?

Our nature cruise leaves from and returns to the wharf at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal.

Do all boat trips take the same route?

Every cruise goes the full length of the fiord - subject to weather. Cruises stop in different places but each trip visits the major sights of interest including Stirling Falls and Harrison Cove.

What cruise is best for wildlife viewing?

Every cruise provides the opportunity to view wildlife, but we cannot guarantee sightings. Our Nature Cruise includes plenty of stops for viewing the amazing geology and occasional wildlife, our skipper and friendly boat hosts will be sure to point out any wildlife.

Do your lunches have vegetarian options?

Yes, picnic lunches can be ordered as vegetarian or vegan. You can select this when booking online.

Which cruise is best for kids?

All cruises are suitable for children.

What should I bring on my boat cruise?

Due to the changeable nature of the weather, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and to wear comfortable shoes. We also have ponchos available for purchase so you can enjoy a glacial facial under Stirling Falls.

What is included in the buffet lunch?

Our To Kai lunch includes a range of meats, salads and seasonal vegetables with hot and cold options available. We can cater to most dietary requirements - please note this on your booking. All our meat is certified halal.

What is included in the picnic lunch?

The picnic lunch includes a sandwich with chicken and salad, cheese and crackers, seasonal fresh fruit, crisps, a cookie and a small chocolate bar. We can cater to most dietary requirements – please note this on your booking.

What does a Milford Sound boat tour include?

Each cruise includes close-up views of waterfalls, cliffs, and native wildlife like dolphins and seals. Our boats have full-height windows, open-top viewing decks, and knowledgeable guides to enrich the experience.

Can I do a Milford Sound day trip with a cruise?

Yes, a day trip is one of the most popular ways to experience the fiord. Packages often include coach transport from Queenstown or Te Anau and a cruise with optional lunch and extras.

Is the Milford Sound cruise suitable for families?

Yes. Our cruise is family-friendly and includes onboard commentary, wildlife spotting, and plenty of comfortable seating options. Kids love the up-close views of waterfalls and dolphins.

Are Milford Sound boat trips suitable in all weather?

Yes. In fact, boat trips in Milford Sound are often even more dramatic in the rain, when hundreds of temporary waterfalls appear down the cliffs. All vessels have indoor seating to ensure comfort year-round.

Do you offer a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown?

Do you offer a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown? No, our Milford Sound cruise doesn't depart from Queenstown but we do offer offer a day trip option that includes coach transfers with informative commentary. It’s a full-day trip that lets you relax and enjoy the stunning scenery en route to Milford Sound.

How does the Queenstown to Milford Sound coach & cruise work?

The Queenstown to Milford Sound coach and cruise includes return coach travel and a nature cruise. The drive takes about 5 hours each way, with stops for short walks and photo opportunities.

Can I book a Milford Sound tour from Queenstown?

Absolutely. A Milford Sound tour from Queenstown typically includes coach travel, a scenic cruise, and optional extras like lunch. It’s a full-day adventure ideal for visitors based in Queenstown or Te Anau.

Is there a Milford Sound coach from Te Anau?

Yes, you can book a Milford Sound coach & cruise from Te Anau with coach transport or self-drive options. The journey is around 2.5 hours and includes spectacular scenery and occasional stops en route.

How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound coach?

The Te Anau to Milford Sound cruise experience includes a 2–2.5-hour drive and a 1.75–2.5-hour cruise, depending on the option you choose. It’s a great choice for travellers seeking a shorter travel day than from Queenstown.

More FAQ's

Get in touch

in New Zealand

0800 264 536

Overseas

+64 3 441 1137

reservations@southerndiscoveries.co.nz reservations@southerndiscoveries.co.nz

Milford Sound Cruises

The original Milford Sound boat cruise company, and still the best.

Upcoming Departures

Cruises

Specials & Combos

15% off Discover More Cruise

Save 15% Milford Sound Discover More Coach & Cruise

Chinese New Year Celebration Cruise

FAQ

Get in touch

Milford Sound
Cruises