From happy customers

Loved by 42 million+
Mollie Roth
US

Mollie

United States
Aug 2025
4/5
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I had been out kayaking the day prior and was not sure it was worth it to come all the way back out for the cruise. It was totally worth it! Stunning views, super comfy boat, lovely crew (didn't get his name but your guy from British Columbia is fabulous! However. Things they don't tell you (or I missed) you have to pay to park which is kind of baloney when you have no other option. Or there is an option to park out and walk in about 30 min, but no way to know that until I asked someone at check in. Also make sure you leave enough time to walk around the harbor from the paid parking to the boats. I arrived 15 minutes early as instructed and almost didn't make it
Melissa Delalay
NZ

Melissa

New Zealand
Apr 2025
5/5
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+1 more

I really liked the Mitre Peak's boat. We were not too many on it and thanks to its size, we could get very close from the falls. The crew was nice and having hot drinks available is a big plus!
Raymond Wilgermein
AU

Raymond

Australia
Jul 2025
5/5
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There were low crowd numbers and dolphins swimming in the water. Service was pretty good as well. Will recommend this trip
Gilbert L McCrary
US

Gilbert

United States
Mar 2025
5/5
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+1 more

The sound itself. It was an unforgettable spectacle. I was stressed about the rain as we got close to the facility, but it turned out perfectly: the rain engorged the waterfalls so they were more spectacular, and the rain slacked off soon after we sailed, and ceased completly about midway. So we got good visibility and great waterfalls. The food was decent, although it was hard to find a place to eat it while we kept getting up to gawk at more wonders outside. We agreed we were in awe and it was one of the most remarkable experiences of our lives.
Ning Ren
CN

Ning

China
Jul 2025
5/5
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RealNZ arranged taxi pickup from our hotel in Frankton as we required. Milford sound is really beautiful and worth the money. We also saw dolphins and seal.
LIU, TSUI-LIEN
TW

Liu,

Taiwan
Apr 2025
5/5
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1.The driver & captain introduced the views very clearl ! 2.Milford sounds very beautiful! 3.There are many places to visit during the trip!
David Barnsley
AU

David

Australia
Mar 2025
5/5
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Personalised table for 2 and the knowledgeable hosts and guides made it well worth the $$$. Food was good and topped off with a cheese board. The all female crew only added to the experience.
R C Cleaver
NZ

R

New Zealand
Mar 2025
5/5
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From the moment we stepped on board the cruise boat we could sense a good vibe ,after receiving our complementary glass of champagne and canapés everyone were ready for a great time ,the crew were very friendly and helpful with any of our questions.The cruise itself out to the Tasman Sea was very enjoyable with the onboard nature expert explaining many points of interest.On reflection we can honestly recommend the whole experience.

Milford Sound Cruises: Explore the stunning fjords of New Zealand

Milford Sound is a realm of cliffs, rainforest, and roaring waterfalls best seen from the water. Glide past Mitre Peak’s spires, feel the mist of Stirling Falls, and watch fur seals and dolphins play along the cliffs. Rain only adds to the spectacle, turning every cliff face into a cascade.

Things to know before you book your Milford Sound cruise

  • Getting there: Drive yourself and book just the cruise, or choose a package with coach transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau.
  • Budget & value: Standard cruises start around NZ$145. Add-ons like buffet meals, boutique vessels, or overnight stays increase cost.
  • Small boats (20–100 pax): Intimate and adventurous, with closer access to waterfalls and wildlife. Expect more motion in rough seas. Operators such as Mitre Peak Cruises specialize in small-group trips, while Southern Discoveries offers extended nature-focused itineraries.
  • Large vessels (200–400 pax): Spacious, stable, and comfortable, with cafés, lounges, and better accessibility. Ideal for families, groups, or those prone to seasickness. Pure Milford runs modern catamarans with live commentary and onboard facilities.
  • Overnight cruises: Stay overnight in Milford Sound after day-trippers leave. Includes dinner, breakfast, kayaking, and stargazing.
  • Weather: Milford gets 200+ rainy days a year, but that means dramatic waterfalls and misty fjord views.
  • Accessibility: Larger vessels are more wheelchair- and stroller-friendly; smaller boats can be more challenging. Life jackets and child safety gear are always provided.
  • When to book:
    • Peak season (Dec–Feb): Book 4–6 weeks ahead. RealNZ's cruises tend to sell out quickly.
    • Shoulder season (Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov): Fewer crowds, more flexibility. Book 1–2 weeks in advance.
    • Low season (May–Sep): Quieter, cheaper, and often available at the last minute.

Your Milford Sound cruise options explained

Milford Sound Cruises

Scenic cruises

Prices starting from NZ$ 145

Best for: First-timers, backpackers, budget-conscious self-drivers

Highlights: 2-hour sail past Mitre Peak & Stirling Falls, small boats or classic catamarans, onboard commentary

Top picks:

  • Milford Sound Cruise
  • Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise
  • Premium Cruise with Gourmet Dining
Milford Sound Cruises

Day trips from Queenstown & Te Anau

Prices starting from NZ $220

Best for: Families, non-drivers, hassle-free experiences

Highlights: Glass-roof coaches, photo stops along Milford Road, cruise included

Top picks

  • From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers
  • From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
  • From Queenstown: Premium Milford Sound Tour with Cruise
Milford Sound Cruises

Scenic flights + cruise

Prices starting from NZ $675

Best for: Luxury seekers, time-pressed travelers

Highlights: Aerial views of Fiordland & Southern Alps, 40-min flight each way, 2-hour cruise

Top picks

  • From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise
  • Book 4-Hour Milford Sound Helicopter Tour and Cruise from Queenstown
Couple kayaking in Milford Sound with misty mountains in the background.

Overnight cruises

Prices starting from NZ$649

Best for: Couples, adventurers, slow-paced travelers

Highlights: Overnight on the fjord with meals, kayaking & stargazing, wake to sunrise views

Top picks:

  • Book Overnight Milford Sound Cruise with Activities
  • Book Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

What you will see on your Milford Sound cruise

Milford Sound cruise route map
Milford Sound Cruises
Milford Sound Cruises
Milford Sound Cruises
Group on a boat viewing Stirling Falls at Milford Sound.
Milford Sound Cruises
Milford Sound Cruises
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Your Milford Sound cruise route

A typical Milford Sound cruise takes you past Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and Seal Rock.

Milford Sound route maps

Mitre Peak

Mitre peak is the most popular feature of the fiord and gets its name from its distinct shape of a mitre, a ceremonial headdress worn by bishops in Christianity.

Mitre Peak

Copper Point

Named after the beautiful veins of copper minerals running along the mountainsides, Copper Point is also the windiest spot in the fiord.

Fairy Falls

The Fairy Falls drop directly into the fiord and is a wonderful sight, especially after rains. If the weather permits, your captain may even pass your boat from under the falls upon special request. Careful of the spray though. Even on a sunny day the water can be cold.

Milford Sound waterfalls

Stirling Falls

Thunderous 155m double-drop waterfall, boats often get you close enough to feel the spray.

Anita Bay

This bay opens up the fiord to the Tasman Sea. Its shores are lined with bowenite jade that the Maoris collected to make tools and ornaments. Even today, you can find local souvenirs made from jade collected from these shores.

Seal Rock

While most of the Milford Sound shoreline consists of vertical peaks, Seal Rock is an exception for its large size and flat shape that native fur seals use to bask in the sun.

Cascade Range

This point comes to life after a few showers of rain when several waterfalls appear here and cascade down to the fiord.

Bowen Falls

This is the tallest waterfall at Milford Sound and is usually the last stop on your cruise before going back to the wharf. This waterfall is also the only source of hydroelectricity for the locals and businesses in the area.

Plan your Milford Sound cruise

Boarding point: Milford Sound Visitor Centre (Terminal and Boat Harbour, 1 Milford Sound Highway)

Find on maps

By car:

  • From Te Anau: 117 km, approximately 2 hours
  • From Queenstown: 286 km, approximately 4 hours
  • Parking available at Milford Sound public car park (800m from the terminal)

Pro tip: Due to challenging roads—especially in winter—opt for a day trip with transfers from Te Anau or Queenstown. Enjoy comfortable coaches that stop for refreshments, restrooms, and photo ops.

Getting to Milford Sound
Milford Sound Cruises

Cruises (from Milford Sound)

  • Day cruises operate throughout the day, typically every 45–60 minutes between 8:45am and 2:45pm.
  • Overnight departures are typically in the mid-afternoon (around 3:10–4pm) and return the next morning (~8:45am)
  • Early morning and late afternoon cruises are calmer and less crowded. Midday sailings are busiest with tour buses. Arrive 30–45 mins early for parking & check-in.

From Queenstown:

  • Coaches depart 6:30 to 7:30am, full-day (12–13 hrs).
  • Flights depart between 8:30 and 11:30am to connect with mid-day cruises

From Te Anau: Coaches depart 9am to 10am, ~8–9 hrs.

Ship passengers viewing waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Milford Sound is spectacular year-round and each season offers something different:

  • Summer (Dec–Feb): Warmest months with long daylight hours. Great for photos and wildlife spotting, but also the busiest season, book well in advance.
  • Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp, clear days and fewer crowds. Ideal for photography with golden light and calmer conditions on the water.
  • Winter (Jun–Aug): Snow-dusted peaks and fewer visitors create a peaceful atmosphere. Cold temperatures, but magical scenery if you’re well-prepared.
  • Spring (Sep–Nov): Melting snow feeds dramatic waterfalls, and wildlife activity picks up. Penguins and young seals are often spotted.

💡 Tip: Rain falls more than 200 days a year, so embrace it. Rain transforms the cliffs into a curtain of waterfalls, often making the Sound even more beautiful.

Best time to visit
Milford Sound Cruises
  • Milford Sound Visitor Terminal: Restrooms, a café, gift shop, and visitor info desks are available. Paid parking at Deepwater Basin with a free shuttle to the terminal.
  • On large cruise boats (multi-deck catamarans): Indoor lounges with heating, open-air decks, onboard restrooms, and complimentary tea/coffee on most departures. Generally wheelchair accessible with ramps and wide decks.
  • On small cruise boats (boutique/nature vessels): Limited indoor seating; facilities are more basic, and accessibility can be restricted.
  • On fly-cruise-fly tours: Minimal facilities at the airstrip. Restrooms available
  • Meals: Cruises offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, with special diets (gluten-free, allergy, vegan) available on request. Always mention dietary needs when booking..
Milford Sound Cruises

Facilities at Milford Sound are limited with no shops available, so pack everything you need to stay comfortable during your cruise.

  • Clothing & comfort: Warm, layered clothing + waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes for the terminal walk and coach stops, sunglasses, sunscreen, and SPF lip balm.
  • Essentials: Ticket/booking confirmation + photo ID (digital or printed), camera/phone with spare battery or power bank, insect repellent, credit card, small day bag only, refillable water bottle + light snacks, motion-sickness tablets.
  • Coach tours: Extra snacks and water for the long road trip
  • Fly-cruise-fly: Compact soft bag only (strict luggage limits).
  • Overnight cruises: Toiletries, sleepwear, earplugs & eye mask, spare change of clothes, waterproof layer for evening deck time, swimwear.
Plan your Milford Sound experience
Milford Sound Cruises

Rules

  • Arrive 30–45 mins early for check-in.
  • Large luggage is not allowed; bring a small bag only.
  • No smoking, vaping, or outside alcohol onboard.
  • Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
  • Drones are restricted in Fiordland National Park.

Tips

  • Rain makes it better: showers create hundreds of waterfalls, turning Milford into a dramatic, once-in-a-lifetime sight.
  • Take motion-sickness tablets if you’re prone to travel sickness.
  • Download tickets & maps in advance as there’s no reliable phone signal in Milford Sound.
Cozy wooden cabin bedroom with a double bed and balcony view in Queenstown, New Zealand.
  • Milford Sound Lodge (inside the park): The only accommodation in Milford Sound itself. Riverside chalets and campervan sites. Very limited availability — book months ahead.
  • Te Anau (2 hrs away): The best hub for self-drivers. Offers a full range of motels, B&Bs, and holiday parks, plus restaurants and supermarkets.
  • Manapouri (2.5 hrs away): Smaller, quieter base town near Lake Manapouri, ideal if combining Milford with Doubtful Sound.
  • Queenstown (4.5–5 hrs away): A major tourism hub with luxury resorts, budget hostels, and vibrant nightlife. Works well if Milford is a day trip, but too far for same-day return driving without tours.
Milford Sound accommodation
Eglinton Valley landscape with river and mountains on route from Te Anau to Milford Sound.
  • Te Anau Glowworm Caves: A boat + cave experience with thousands of glowworms.
  • Kepler Track: One of New Zealand’s Great Walks, with short day hikes from Te Anau.
  • Doubtful Sound: A quieter, more remote fjord, accessible via Manapouri.
  • Lake Te Anau & Lake Manapouri: Scenic cruises, kayaking, and lakeside walks.
  • Fiordland National Park: More than just Milford, perfect for countless hikes, viewpoints, and wildlife encounters.

Frequently asked questions about Milford Sound cruises

What's the difference between Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound?

While both are part of Fiordland National Park, Milford is more accessible and famous for its dramatic Mitre Peak. Doubtful Sound is larger, more remote, and typically requires an overnight trip. Milford offers a perfect introduction to fjord experiences if you're limited on time.

What happens if my cruise is canceled due to weather?

Tour operators monitor conditions closely and will contact you if cancellations occur. Most offer full refunds or rebooking options for weather-related cancellations.

Can I see Milford Sound as a day trip from Queenstown?

Yes, but prepare for a long day (12-14 hours). For a more relaxed experience, consider staying overnight in Te Anau, which is halfway between Queenstown and Milford Sound.

Is a cruise the only way to experience Milford Sound?

While cruises are the most popular option, you can also kayak the fjord for a more intimate experience or hike the famous Milford Track for a multi-day adventure.

What's the best season for wildlife spotting?

Wildlife can be seen year-round, but dolphins are more commonly spotted in summer months (December-February). Fur seals are present throughout the year.

Can I get cell phone reception in Milford Sound?

Cell coverage is limited in Fiordland National Park. Most cruise boats offer WiFi, but consider downloading maps and information before your trip.

How early should I book my fjord experience?

During peak season (December-February), book at least 2-3 weeks in advance. For the quieter shoulder seasons, 1-2 weeks is usually sufficient.

Are there any walking trails around the Milford Sound area?

Yes, several short walks start near the visitor center, including the Milford Foreshore Walk (30 minutes) and the Milford Sound Lookout Track (20 minutes). For serious hikers, the world-famous Milford Track begins nearby.

Is it worth visiting Milford Sound in the rain?

Absolutely! Many locals prefer rainy days as the waterfalls are more spectacular. Milford receives over 7 meters of rainfall annually, creating hundreds of temporary waterfalls that only appear during and after rain.

Can I stay in Milford Sound?

Yes, you can stay overnight in Milford Sound. However, accommodation options are limited. The primary option is the Milford Sound Lodge, which offers various room types. Due to its remote location and popularity, booking well in advance is highly recommended.

More reads

People preparing to board a small plane for a scenic flight to Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Fly to Milford Sound

Bus at a stop with mountains in the background, Queenstown to Te Anau transfer.

Day tours to Milford Sound

Hikers on Routeburn Track with mountains in Fiordland National Park.

Mitre Peak

Group walking on a forest trail beside a river in Milford Sound.

Milford Track

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