Getting to Milford Sound from Queenstown

Queenstown is a New Zealand must-do. Long considered the country’s epicentre of adventure, Queenstown also offers plenty of opportunities for rest and rejuvenation amongst nature. Nestled between the deep waters of Lake Wakatipu and the mighty peaks of the Southern Alps, Queenstown’s rich beauty is matched only by its rich history.

Getting to Milford Sound

Milford Sound, Piopiotahi, is located in the heart of Fiordland National Park, is one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural wonders. Getting there from Queenstown offers an unforgettable journey through breathtaking landscapes.

The drive, approximately 5 hours, takes you through Te Anau and along the scenic Milford Road, where you’ll encounter towering mountains, mirror-like lakes, and lush rainforests.

Enjoy one of our coach tours or a scenic flight for a more relaxed experience. No matter how you travel, Milford Sound’s beauty and grandeur make the trip from Queenstown an essential part of your New Zealand adventure.

Travel Times to Milford Sound

by road

5 hours

by air

1.5 hours

Coach Trips From Queenstown

Sit back, relax and take the coach from Te Anau to Milford Sound, or Queenstown to Milford Sound. See why the road to Milford Sound is as famous as the final destination.

With an expert coach driver, enjoy fascinating commentary as well as photo stops and short walks along the way.

Discover our glass-roof coaches and how to book your coach trip to Milford Sound.

Discover Coach & Cruise Day Trips

Scenic Flights From Queenstown

One of the best ways to take in the immense size of Fiordland National Park is from above.

On a scenic flight to Milford Sound, soar above the Southern Alps and its many glaciers, hidden alpine lakes and beech forests before landing near the Milford cruise terminal.

Get all the details on how to book a Milford Sound scenic flight by fixed-wing or helicopter.

Explore Scenic Flights

Self Drive From Queenstown

Experience the ultimate road trip to Milford Sound, winding through the spectacular landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

The journey from Queenstown offers incredible views of towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush rainforests along the scenic Milford Road. Driving yourself allows the flexibility to stop at scenic viewpoints, short walks, and hidden gems along the way.

With the freedom of self-drive, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Fiordland while getting there, making the journey to Milford Sound just as memorable as the destination itself.

About Queenstown

Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, is the perfect launching point for your Milford Sound journey. Known for its stunning landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities, Queenstown offers everything from bungee jumping to serene lakeside strolls. Take a moment to explore the charming town, indulge in local cuisine, or try your hand at one of the many adventure sports available.

Taking our coach from Queenstown to Milford Sound? Convenient pick-ups are available from hotels and Central Queenstown.

Learn More About Queenstown

FAQ

Do you provide disabled/wheelchair access?

The only boat cruise in Milford Sound with wheelchair access is the 'Pride of Milford' where access to the vessel is by ramp. Disabled toilet facilities are in the Visitor Terminal where all cruises depart from.

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 you operate on Christmas Day?

All day trips from Queenstown and Te Anau operate on different schedules. Please refer to the individual trip for dates and times. Most Queenstown to Milford Sound experiences operate on Christmas day, but are subject to schedule updates and weather.

Will I see wildlife?

Milford Sound has an abundance of wildlife and is home to New Zealand fur seals and bottlenose dolphins year-round. Rare Dusky dolphins are known to visit the fiord and the world’s rarest penguin, the Fiordland Crested Penguin/Tawaki visits Milford during breeding season (August - November) and moulting season (March/April). While there is wildlife here, we can’t guarantee sightings as these are wild animals in their natural habitat. A visit to the Underwater Observatory offers more wildlife viewing opportunities with an abundance of sea life below the surface.

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’s the difference between the cruises?

We provide some of the best Milford Sound cruise deals in New Zealand. To compare our day trips, check out our Cruise Comparison table, where you can see our range of cruises and the vessels.

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.

Is there somewhere to get a coffee or snack in Milford?

Yes, Discover Milford Sound Information Centre & Cafe is the perfect place to grab a coffee or a hot snack before or after your cruise. It's located beside the main carpark and is a short 15-minute walk to the Visitor Terminal.

Is there parking in Milford Sound?

Yes, there is paid car parking at the Milford Sound public car park. We advise getting there early as the car park does fill quickly in summer months.

Are there sandflies?

Yes, there are sandflies. To avoid being bitten, bring mosquito spray with you and wear long-sleeve clothing and trousers. Mosquito spray is available for purchase from the Cafe & Information Centre.

Do you have a webcam in Milford Sound?

Yes, you can view how the weather and day looks. Check out our webcam here.

How long does it take to drive from Queenstown to a Milford Sound cruise?

It typically takes around 5 hours to drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Please allow extra time for road works and the Homer Tunnel traffic lights.

How long does it take to drive to a Milford Sound cruise from Te Anau?

We advise to allow 2.5 hours to drive from Te Anau to a Milford Sound cruise. There are various scenic stops along the way so we recommend allowing plenty of time.

Where is your desk?

Inside the Visitor Terminal. Once inside turn right and you will see the Southern Discoveries front desk.

What is included in the picnic lunch?

The picnic lunch includes a sandwich with selected meat 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.

Can I get a refund for my booking?

We have a 24-hour cancellation and amendment policy, so as long as you notify us more than 24 hours before departure we can amend your booking to another day or cancel for a refund.

Which tour is best for kids?

All of our Queenstown to Milford Sound day trips are suitable for children.

What should I bring on my Milford Sound tour from Queenstown?

It’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and to wear comfortable shoes for your Milford Sound day trip. We also have ponchos available for purchase so you can enjoy a glacial facial under Stirling Falls.

What weather can I expect in Fiordland?

Milford Sound is one of the wettest places in the world, with an impressive annual rainfall of around 7 metres. During peak rains, up to 250 millimeters can fall within 24 hours, creating countless temporary waterfalls that spill dramatically down the cliffs, some reaching heights of up to a thousand meters, along with many permanent waterfalls. This abundance of rain is what makes the waterfalls and lush rainforest here so spectacular. Temperatures vary by season, with summer (Dec – Feb) averaging highs of 19°C (66°F) and winter (Jun – Aug) averaging around 9°C (48°F). Our vessels offer spacious indoor areas with comfortable seating, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in any weather.

Is it worth going to Milford/Doubtful Sounds on a wet day?

Milford Sound is the wettest place in New Zealand and one of the wettest places in the world! Many visitors are shocked to know that this true world wonder actually measures its rainfall in metres (and not millimetres like most of the world.) In fact, in 2016 Milford Sound received over nine metres of rain! Doubtful Sound is also rainy with an average of 3-6 metres of rain per year. Both fiords are magnificent to visit in rainy weather due to the significant amount of waterfalls. The fiords come alive with water streaming down sheer cliffs - a magical sight not to be missed.

How likely are we to see wildlife in Fiordland?

Although we cannot guarantee wildlife viewing, it is very likely that you will see the New Zealand fur seal, and likely more than just one or two! Dolphins are often sighted swimming alongside cruise vessels. Two species of penguins make Milford Sound their home at various times throughout the year. Little blue penguins and the Fiordland crested penguin - known at the Tawaki. Often hard to find and see, it is always a delight to spot them when we do.

How long does it take to travel to Milford Sound?

It takes approximately five hours to get to Milford from Queenstown depending on the time of year and road conditions. It takes approximately two hours to get to the Sound from Te Anau. You can drive a car or campervan or take a coach tour. We always recommend allowing plenty of time to get to Milford as the journey there is as spectacular as the cruise itself.

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