Good free hot chocolate Views were very nice. The crew gave us good information and provide good jokes.
1 hours (approx.)
Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
From
NZD $495
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise
Recommended by 98% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Queenstown, New Zealand
Top-Rated Reviews
4.57 (128) ReviewsJulien GROSSE
Ani Alabogus
It was beautiful
Meiju Jauhiainen
Left punctually, amazing views as expected! 9.30 boat wasn't crowded at all. We thought the cruise would be 2h so was disappointed that it was only 1h45min (couldn't find the info anywhere either), but definitely worth it.
- Get up to 10% cash back per person when you book with us!
- Exclusive Price with Backpacker Deals
- Locally owned and operated
- Experience the stunning beauty of Milford Sound
- 1hr 45min or 2-hour cruise aboard a modern multi-purpose catamaran
- Spot fur seals, dolphins, and penguins (depending on the season)
- Enjoy views of waterfalls and mountains
- Spectacular scenery of the Fiordland National Park
- Learn about the area's history from experienced skipper's
- Complimentary tea and coffee
Please note check-in time is 25 minutes before the departure.
Come cruise magnificent Milford Sound! Explore one of the highlights of the Fiordland National Park aboard a modern catamaran with plenty of viewing decks to soak up those spectacular views. Immerse yourself in some of the world’s most breathtaking scenery.
This custom built catamaran has been specifically designed with Piopiotahi / Milford in mind with her spacious viewing decks, covered outdoor seating area, comfortable booth seating and large windows throughout. Unlimited viewing of towering waterfalls, luxuriant rainforests, fur seals, and other local wildlife such as dolphins and penguins (depending on the season).
The cruise travels the length of Milford Sound and out to the Tasman Sea. Learn why Captain Cook failed to discover Milford Sound after charting all the other fiords of Fiordland National Park. The talented skippers will give you commentary throughout the cruise, teaching you all about this spectacular area. The friendly crew is on hand for those all-important photos, to share their local knowledge, and to join you for the free shower under Stirling Falls!
The Cafe Bar also serves up delicious espresso coffee, drinks, and assorted snacks to enjoy while you savour the stunning scenery.
Driving time from Te Anau is 2.5hrs
Driving time from Queenstown is 4.5hrs
Seeing Milford Sound is a must-do in New Zealand. Different start times mean you can pick the perfect trip and we also think the included commentary is pretty cool… you're not just seeing this stunning New Zealand gem, but you're learning a little about it too.
The highlight of this cruise is as the boat noses under Stirling Falls for a shower under fresh glacial melt!
In the event that a booking is cancelled, the following fees will apply:
- Cancellations more than 24 hours before departure: no fee
- Cancellations within 24 hours of departure: 100% of the cost
- https://puremilford.co.nz/frequently-asked-questions
Customer Reviews
4.57
Total Reviews and rating
Julien GROSSE
Good free hot chocolate Views were very nice. The crew gave us good information and provide good jokes.
Ani Alabogus
It was beautiful
Meiju Jauhiainen
Left punctually, amazing views as expected! 9.30 boat wasn't crowded at all. We thought the cruise would be 2h so was disappointed that it was only 1h45min (couldn't find the info anywhere either), but definitely worth it.
Salima Benali
It was a really an amazing tour… we also got lucky to see dolphins😊
Juliane Knüpling
Please be prepared to expect a mass tourism place! There a at least 10 vessels, we counted 5 helicopters and 20 planes. This vessel was clean and not packed but still it was super loud and noisy from people not being respectful in this absolutely stunning nature. There is one coffee machine for everyone to use. In those 2h I didn't get a coffee, I tried 3 times, but the queue was very long and I don't wanna spent me precious time lining up
Daniel Hargrove
Milford Sound was mesmerizing, with waterfalls tumbling down cliffs and wildlife everywhere. Getting on the tour was easy, and it’s a day I’ll never forget.
Sophie Taylor
I’m so glad I booked this cruise—Milford Sound is otherworldly. The views from the boat were unmatched, and getting close to the waterfalls was a thrill. The booking process was quick and simple, and the whole trip felt like a peaceful escape into nature.
Jannik Schmidt
I finally ticked Milford Sound off my bucket list, and it didn’t disappoint. Booking for the cruise was simple, and the scenery along the way was a great lead-up to the main event. Once on the boat, the views were incredible—rugged cliffs, endless waterfalls, and so much wildlife. By the end of the trip, I felt like I’d been immersed in one of nature’s masterpieces.
Olivia Turner
Just did the Milford Sound Cruise and I honestly can't believe how beautiful it was. The views of the mountains and waterfalls were unreal, and we even saw some dolphins swimming beside the boat. The whole cruise lasted about two hours, but it felt like no time at all. It can get a bit rainy, so definitely pack a jacket, but it's totally worth it. Booking was super simple, and if you're going to be in the area, I’d say don’t skip this. It’s one of those moments you’ll be talking about long after it’s over.
Claudia Navarro
This cruise was everything I hoped for and more. Milford Sound is just stunning, with misty mountains and waterfalls that seem to appear out of nowhere. The boat got us right up close to the falls, and feeling the spray was such a rush. Booking through Backpacker Deals was a breeze, and everything ran smoothly. Honestly, this is one of those bucket-list adventures you’ll be talking about for years.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Children are 5 - 14 years
Children 0 - 4 years are free
There are a number of different ways to get to Milford Sound including self-drive, day-trips by coach and by air.
Your Milford Sound boat trip does not depart from Queenstown wharf. Some people do ask that!
It is a good idea to allow at least 5 hours to ensure that you have enough time for all the photo stops along the way!
There is only a very limited supply of fuel in Milford Sound. We would strongly recommend you fuel up before you leave Te Anau.
Once you reach the end of the Milford road there is a large carpark available for everyone cruising Milford Sound. It is a short 5-minute walk from the carpark to the terminal building where your cruise departs. Please note that you cannot park directly outside the terminal building.
*Important Note; Milford Sound Tourism Ltd have introduced an hourly rate parking charge in the main car parks at Milford Sound. Information about parking at Milford can be found here www.milfordsoundtourism.nz/parking.
The last point with a large selection of cafes and supermarkets is Te Anau. In Milford itself, there is only one small cafe. Snacks and drinks are available for cash purchase on the boat.
Here's an idea of must-have items:
- Cash - to pay for purchases on the boat.
- A rain jacket - even on a sunny day the waterfalls will get you wet.
- A camera - to record your day.
- Sunglasses - it can be bright if the sun is shining!
- Finally, if you are self-driving, a full tank of petrol when leaving Te Anau.
There is disabled parking just outside the terminal, with ramp access down the wharf. The bottom deck of the Gem of the Sound is explorable for wheelchair users, with accessible toilets and the Cafe/Bar on this deck. Provided it is not too windy, there is access to a small rear viewing deck on this floor too.