Milford Sound
Sailing trips & boat tours

Sailing trips & boat tours
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Our most recommended Milford Sound Sailing trips & boat tours

Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise

Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise

Sit back and relax as your cruise departs from Milford Sound Wharf, and makes its way out past the iconic Mitre Peak. Cruise the length of the 16km fiord, out past St Annes Point Lighthouse, while listening to informative commentary from our skipper who will highlight points of interest along the way including the mighty Lady Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. We go further, and get you closer than any other operator in Milford Sound. Whether you choose to keep warm with a complimentary tea/coffee seated inside our lounge or want to get outside and breathe in the pristine alpine air, you are going to be inspired by the majesty of the region. Our cruises have strictly limited passenger numbers, rewarding you with an intimate experience of Milford Sound while allowing for unobstructed photo opportunities from our outdoor viewing decks. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals basking in the sun, pods of dolphins or rare Fiordland Crested Penguins that can be found seasonally within the region.

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Enjoy a fun and leisurely day trip to admire the glacial features, wild flora and fauna, and picturesque backdrops of the world-famous fiord at Milford Sound. Start with pickup for the bus journey to Te Anau. Your driver will share their local knowledge as you stop along the way to see spectacular scenery. Marvel at views of waterfalls, wildlife, and the rainforest. Soak up the sights from any of the three indoor and outdoor viewing decks during your cruise and join your jovial crew at the bow as you nose close to Stirling Falls to feel the spray from some of the world's freshest water.  Benefit from complimentary tea service is available for the entire cruise and, snacks cakes and drinks can be purchased from onboard cafe / bar.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Travel to Milford Sound for an extended nature cruise on a day trip from Queenstown. Experience one of the most beautiful drives in the world in the comfort of a state-of-the-coach. Board the luxury glass-roof coach in Queenstown and journey along the shores of Lake Whakatipu into rolling countryside through to Te Anau. Here we take a short rest stop at a cafe before continuing along the spectacular alpine route of the Milford Road. Enjoy spectacular photo stops and short walks along the way. Relax on the 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea and admire the fiord’s wildlife, waterfalls and mountains. Our experienced skippers tailor each Milford Sound cruise, considering the weather and recent wildlife sightings, ensuring you'll see the best Milford Sound has to offer. Specialist nature guides will provide live informative commentary.Our vessels have large windows, spacious decks and offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Experience the cool spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces.  You can bring your own lunch or purchase delicious locally curated dishes, wines, craft beer and barista coffees on-board. Following the cruise, board the coach for your return journey to Queenstown.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

Take off from Queenstown, and fly above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago, before heading westward to where the glacial fed rivers empty into Lake Wakatipu. Witness what the power of nature has created over the years, as you journey over two remarkable National Parks; Mt Aspiring and the world heritage listed Fiordland National Park. On arrival in Milford Sound, join your purpose-built small boat for a comfortable two-hour cruise through one of the world’s natural wonders. Make your way out past the iconic Mitre Peak and cruise the length of the fiord while our skipper highlights points of interest along the way, including the mighty Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. Keep an eye out for wildlife that can be found in the region including seals, pods of dolphins and the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin (seasonal). Complete your journey with a birds-eye view of the largely untouched region as you fly back over the Southern Alps and are welcomed to the incredibly blue Lake Wakatipu upon landing in Queenstown.

Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran

Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran

Climb aboard one of the most recently refurbished vessels in the fiord for a Milford Sound nature cruise. Capture the best views of the incredible fiord with three-levels of indoor and outdoor seating, large windows and spacious viewing decks. Be welcomed on board by a friendly crew and marvel at one of the most stunning places on earth. Relax in the comfortable seating and feel relaxed in the knowledge you won't miss a moment of Milford, as high-definition cameras project outdoor footage live onto TV screens throughout the vessel. Admire New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks and feel the spray of cascading waterfalls. Look out for playful dolphins and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive Fiordland Crested Penguin. Travel the length of the fiord and out into the Tasman Sea, to see why Captain Cook failed to discover Milford Sound after charting the Fiordland National Park.

Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Your cruise will begin at one of the most scenic points of the journey. You can take in the magnificent view of Mitre Peak (New Zealand's most photographed mountain) and the Sinbad Gully. This place is home to the Kakapo (world's heaviest flightless parrot), which was once thought to be extinct but was rediscovered in 1948. From there you will cruise past seal colonies and feel the spray of the waterfall as you travel directly under the Fairy Falls. Once the cruise reaches the Tasman Sea, you will get to see the hidden entrance to the Milford Sound (which Captain Cook missed twice on his explorations). On your return journey, you will find yourself underneath an even bigger waterfall, the Sterling Falls. If you feel like a world-famous "glacial facial", don't miss the opportunity here to do so. Throughout your tour, nature guides will entertain you with local anecdotes, as well as offer extra information on the passing flora and fauna. They are also there to help you with taking photos and assist with any requirements you may have. Around November you will have the chance to spot the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin.

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

Discover the beauty of Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park on a guided day trip from Manapouri. Cruise across Lake Manapouri, ride over Wilmot Pass, and admire the magical waterways of Doubtful Sound. Choose the early departure option for a half-day trip that includes a 2-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound's inner fjords, or choose the standard full-day trip that includes a 3-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound. Make a stop en route to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest. At Deep Cove, board the Patea Explorer, a purpose-built catamaran, for a 3-hour scenic cruise on Doubtful Sound. Admire waterfalls, rainforests, and mountains during the cruise. You might spot the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, the colony of fur seals at the mouth of the fiord, or even rare Fiordland crested penguins. During the cruise, knowledgeable nature guides will provide informative commentary. Admire the views of rock faces with flowing waterfalls, mist hanging around the tops of the mountains, and gushing rivers and streams. At the end of your tour, return to the departure point in Manapouri.

Milford Sound: Wilderness Cruise with Nature Guide

Milford Sound: Wilderness Cruise with Nature Guide

Experience the natural wonderland of Milford Sounds sheer cliffs and get up close to thundering waterfalls. Your experienced skippers customize the cruise route on the day depending on the weather and wildlife sightings to ensure you see the best of Milford Sound. Keep a lookout for wildlife, including seals, dolphins and the Fiordland Crested penguins. The purpose-built Haven Vessel has large windows, spacious decks and relaxed lounges which offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Soak in the views with delicious locally sourced food and a selection of beverages. The Haven Vessel hosts a fully licenced bar with tap beer from local breweries; barista coffee and organic tea options as well as a curated A la Carte menu and Café style cabinet foods available to purchase.  Sit back, relax and take in the magnificent views of Milford Sound. 

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Discover Milford Sound on an 8-hour adventure with round-trip transport from Te Anau and a 2-hour cruise through the fiord. If you are looking to explore both Milford and Doubtful Sounds, it is worth staying one or two nights in the lovely area of Te Anau. Experience one of the most beautiful drives in the world along the Milford Road in the comfort of our glass roof coach. Enjoy photo stops and short walks on the journey into Milford. Cruise along the Fiord to the Tasman Sea onboard our purpose built Fiordland vessel for an interactive and relaxed adventure. A specialist guide will provide live informative commentary and you can admire the fiord’s wildlife, waterfalls, and mountains. You may bring your own lunch or purchase delicious locally sourced food and beverages on-board. Our vessels have large windows, spacious decks and offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Following the cruise, immediately board the luxury coach for the return journey to Te Anau. 

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Coach Tour and Cruise

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Coach Tour and Cruise

Start your day in central Te Anau as you board a modern tour bus and begin to explore Fiordland's stunning natural beauty. Knowledgeable local guides will share everything their homeland has to offer through informative commentary, scenic photo stops, and short nature walks. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, and take in the spectacular scenery as mountains plunge into the deep waters of the Fiord. Ancient rainforests give way to towering waterfalls dropping from hanging valleys sparkling into the ocean below.  Milford Sound is abundant with unique birds and wildlife. See seals lounging on the rocks and playing in the shallows. On occasion dolphins, whales, and the very rare Fiordland Crested Penguin visit the sounds providing privileged photo opportunities.  Enjoy the fantastic scenery and nature walks in order to fully admire the true wilderness and grand vistas of Fiordland National Park. Hop on board a spacious catamaran for a spectacualr scenic cruise. Enjoy a picnic on board while you take in the scenery from a different perspective.

Fiordland

Fiordland

Our most recommended Milford Sound Sailing trips & boat tours

Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise

Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise

Sit back and relax as your cruise departs from Milford Sound Wharf, and makes its way out past the iconic Mitre Peak. Cruise the length of the 16km fiord, out past St Annes Point Lighthouse, while listening to informative commentary from our skipper who will highlight points of interest along the way including the mighty Lady Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. We go further, and get you closer than any other operator in Milford Sound. Whether you choose to keep warm with a complimentary tea/coffee seated inside our lounge or want to get outside and breathe in the pristine alpine air, you are going to be inspired by the majesty of the region. Our cruises have strictly limited passenger numbers, rewarding you with an intimate experience of Milford Sound while allowing for unobstructed photo opportunities from our outdoor viewing decks. Be sure to keep an eye out for seals basking in the sun, pods of dolphins or rare Fiordland Crested Penguins that can be found seasonally within the region.

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Enjoy a fun and leisurely day trip to admire the glacial features, wild flora and fauna, and picturesque backdrops of the world-famous fiord at Milford Sound. Start with pickup for the bus journey to Te Anau. Your driver will share their local knowledge as you stop along the way to see spectacular scenery. Marvel at views of waterfalls, wildlife, and the rainforest. Soak up the sights from any of the three indoor and outdoor viewing decks during your cruise and join your jovial crew at the bow as you nose close to Stirling Falls to feel the spray from some of the world's freshest water.  Benefit from complimentary tea service is available for the entire cruise and, snacks cakes and drinks can be purchased from onboard cafe / bar.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Travel to Milford Sound for an extended nature cruise on a day trip from Queenstown. Experience one of the most beautiful drives in the world in the comfort of a state-of-the-coach. Board the luxury glass-roof coach in Queenstown and journey along the shores of Lake Whakatipu into rolling countryside through to Te Anau. Here we take a short rest stop at a cafe before continuing along the spectacular alpine route of the Milford Road. Enjoy spectacular photo stops and short walks along the way. Relax on the 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea and admire the fiord’s wildlife, waterfalls and mountains. Our experienced skippers tailor each Milford Sound cruise, considering the weather and recent wildlife sightings, ensuring you'll see the best Milford Sound has to offer. Specialist nature guides will provide live informative commentary.Our vessels have large windows, spacious decks and offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Experience the cool spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces.  You can bring your own lunch or purchase delicious locally curated dishes, wines, craft beer and barista coffees on-board. Following the cruise, board the coach for your return journey to Queenstown.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

Take off from Queenstown, and fly above the rugged backcountry of Central Otago, before heading westward to where the glacial fed rivers empty into Lake Wakatipu. Witness what the power of nature has created over the years, as you journey over two remarkable National Parks; Mt Aspiring and the world heritage listed Fiordland National Park. On arrival in Milford Sound, join your purpose-built small boat for a comfortable two-hour cruise through one of the world’s natural wonders. Make your way out past the iconic Mitre Peak and cruise the length of the fiord while our skipper highlights points of interest along the way, including the mighty Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. Keep an eye out for wildlife that can be found in the region including seals, pods of dolphins and the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin (seasonal). Complete your journey with a birds-eye view of the largely untouched region as you fly back over the Southern Alps and are welcomed to the incredibly blue Lake Wakatipu upon landing in Queenstown.

Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran

Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran

Climb aboard one of the most recently refurbished vessels in the fiord for a Milford Sound nature cruise. Capture the best views of the incredible fiord with three-levels of indoor and outdoor seating, large windows and spacious viewing decks. Be welcomed on board by a friendly crew and marvel at one of the most stunning places on earth. Relax in the comfortable seating and feel relaxed in the knowledge you won't miss a moment of Milford, as high-definition cameras project outdoor footage live onto TV screens throughout the vessel. Admire New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks and feel the spray of cascading waterfalls. Look out for playful dolphins and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive Fiordland Crested Penguin. Travel the length of the fiord and out into the Tasman Sea, to see why Captain Cook failed to discover Milford Sound after charting the Fiordland National Park.

Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Your cruise will begin at one of the most scenic points of the journey. You can take in the magnificent view of Mitre Peak (New Zealand's most photographed mountain) and the Sinbad Gully. This place is home to the Kakapo (world's heaviest flightless parrot), which was once thought to be extinct but was rediscovered in 1948. From there you will cruise past seal colonies and feel the spray of the waterfall as you travel directly under the Fairy Falls. Once the cruise reaches the Tasman Sea, you will get to see the hidden entrance to the Milford Sound (which Captain Cook missed twice on his explorations). On your return journey, you will find yourself underneath an even bigger waterfall, the Sterling Falls. If you feel like a world-famous "glacial facial", don't miss the opportunity here to do so. Throughout your tour, nature guides will entertain you with local anecdotes, as well as offer extra information on the passing flora and fauna. They are also there to help you with taking photos and assist with any requirements you may have. Around November you will have the chance to spot the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin.

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

Discover the beauty of Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park on a guided day trip from Manapouri. Cruise across Lake Manapouri, ride over Wilmot Pass, and admire the magical waterways of Doubtful Sound. Choose the early departure option for a half-day trip that includes a 2-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound's inner fjords, or choose the standard full-day trip that includes a 3-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound. Make a stop en route to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest. At Deep Cove, board the Patea Explorer, a purpose-built catamaran, for a 3-hour scenic cruise on Doubtful Sound. Admire waterfalls, rainforests, and mountains during the cruise. You might spot the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, the colony of fur seals at the mouth of the fiord, or even rare Fiordland crested penguins. During the cruise, knowledgeable nature guides will provide informative commentary. Admire the views of rock faces with flowing waterfalls, mist hanging around the tops of the mountains, and gushing rivers and streams. At the end of your tour, return to the departure point in Manapouri.

Milford Sound: Wilderness Cruise with Nature Guide

Milford Sound: Wilderness Cruise with Nature Guide

Experience the natural wonderland of Milford Sounds sheer cliffs and get up close to thundering waterfalls. Your experienced skippers customize the cruise route on the day depending on the weather and wildlife sightings to ensure you see the best of Milford Sound. Keep a lookout for wildlife, including seals, dolphins and the Fiordland Crested penguins. The purpose-built Haven Vessel has large windows, spacious decks and relaxed lounges which offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Soak in the views with delicious locally sourced food and a selection of beverages. The Haven Vessel hosts a fully licenced bar with tap beer from local breweries; barista coffee and organic tea options as well as a curated A la Carte menu and Café style cabinet foods available to purchase.  Sit back, relax and take in the magnificent views of Milford Sound. 

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Discover Milford Sound on an 8-hour adventure with round-trip transport from Te Anau and a 2-hour cruise through the fiord. If you are looking to explore both Milford and Doubtful Sounds, it is worth staying one or two nights in the lovely area of Te Anau. Experience one of the most beautiful drives in the world along the Milford Road in the comfort of our glass roof coach. Enjoy photo stops and short walks on the journey into Milford. Cruise along the Fiord to the Tasman Sea onboard our purpose built Fiordland vessel for an interactive and relaxed adventure. A specialist guide will provide live informative commentary and you can admire the fiord’s wildlife, waterfalls, and mountains. You may bring your own lunch or purchase delicious locally sourced food and beverages on-board. Our vessels have large windows, spacious decks and offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Following the cruise, immediately board the luxury coach for the return journey to Te Anau. 

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Coach Tour and Cruise

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Coach Tour and Cruise

Start your day in central Te Anau as you board a modern tour bus and begin to explore Fiordland's stunning natural beauty. Knowledgeable local guides will share everything their homeland has to offer through informative commentary, scenic photo stops, and short nature walks. Cruise the full length of Milford Sound, and take in the spectacular scenery as mountains plunge into the deep waters of the Fiord. Ancient rainforests give way to towering waterfalls dropping from hanging valleys sparkling into the ocean below.  Milford Sound is abundant with unique birds and wildlife. See seals lounging on the rocks and playing in the shallows. On occasion dolphins, whales, and the very rare Fiordland Crested Penguin visit the sounds providing privileged photo opportunities.  Enjoy the fantastic scenery and nature walks in order to fully admire the true wilderness and grand vistas of Fiordland National Park. Hop on board a spacious catamaran for a spectacualr scenic cruise. Enjoy a picnic on board while you take in the scenery from a different perspective.

Frequently asked questions about Milford Sound Sailing trips & boat tours

Experiences in Milford Sound

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Other Sightseeing Options in Milford Sound

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What people are saying about Milford Sound

Overall rating

4.7
(1,135 reviews)

From the beginning to the end I found this tour incredibly enjoyable mostly due to our guide Shelinder (sorry I may have spelt his name wrong) and the friendly guests on board the bus. Shelinder was humorous, informative, experienced, helpful and resourceful. I would definitely recommend this company and tour for anyone else wanting to explore Milford Sound.

We absolutely loved our flight-cruise-flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Our first plan was cancelled due to bad weather but we were rebooked the next day. It was stunning!! Communication with Glenorchy Air was great and our pilot, Will, was professional with a super sense of humour. Could rate this experience highly enough....fabulous!

It was fun and enjoyable trip. Thank you for fun facts and safe journey throughout the trip to milford sound, Grant and Shelandra you guys are so amazing.

Richard the driver was great… except hos dad jokes. Had a great day

Bus driver was great the whole experience is also great.