Book Giant Gate Falls Tours

Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests

• Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
• Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
• Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.

Inclusions

• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise on a boutique boat

• Maximum 75 passengers only

• Expert skipper & guide

• Close-to-waterfall positioning

• Wildlife encounter opportunities

• Onboard commentary

Guided Milford Track walk (if option selected)

• 10min boat to Sandfly Point

• Up to 4 hours hiking time

• Expert hiking guide

• Track safety briefing and safety gear

Exclusions

• Lunch & personal snacks (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as conditions can change rapidly in Milford Sound.
• Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and it may be cold or wet.
• Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
• Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
• Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks, especially if your experience includes a guided walk.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on board the boat or during the guided walk.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
• Drones and other aerial devices are not allowed in Milford Sound.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Safety is a priority, so the Milford Track guided walk is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years and over the age of 75 years.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• The guided walk and boat may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
• This hike is suitable for people in moderate shape. You'll walk about 7 miles on uneven terrain, with some uphill sections. Expect to be on your feet for around 3.5 hours. Be prepared for wet weather and wear sturdy shoes.

Additional information

• The experience operates in all weather conditions; cruises and walks may proceed in rain or shine.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Restroom facilities are available on board the boat.
• The guided walk portion may involve uneven or slippery surfaces—participation is at your own risk.
• Life jackets and safety briefings are provided before departure.
• Photography is encouraged, but please be mindful of other guests and wildlife.
• Mobile phone coverage is limited in Milford Sound.
• Pack wisely for the trek. Carry essentials like a lightweight backpack, rain gear, quick-drying clothes, and trekking poles for added support.
• The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.

Best-priced Milford cruise, with peak slot availability.

• Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute scenic cruise with expert commentary, indoor lounges and open decks, free tea/coffee, frequent wildlife sightings, multilingual audio, and flexible timings for self-drivers.
• Why choose this: Best for self-drivers wanting flexible, prime 11am or 1:15pm departures, ideal for Queenstown day trips.
• Upgrades: Elevate your trip with scenic flights from Queenstown for aerial views of the Southern Alps and fjord, cutting travel to just ~5 hours instead of a 13-hour coach ride.

Inclusions

• 1-hour 45-minute Milford Sound cruise

• Expert skipper commentary

• Complimentary tea & coffee

• Wildlife spotting opportunities

• Access to outdoor viewing decks

• Indoor heated lounge area

• Multi-language audio guide app

Scenic flight transfers from Queenstown (if option selected)

• 35 minutes each way flying time

• Guaranteed window seats

• Expert pilot commentary

Exclusions

• Other food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
• Carry warm, weather-appropriate clothing and a waterproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly on the water.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

• Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
• There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.

Additional information

• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
• Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Restrooms are available on board.
• The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.
• Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.

Door-to-door Queenstown to Milford Sound tour, expertly choreographed.

• Everything you get: Return coach with panoramic windows, engaging commentary, 1h45m cruise, curated stops at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and The Chasm, short nature walks where safe, and seamless cruise–coach coordination.
• Why choose this: Best for travelers who want Milford’s highlights without alpine driving or parking stress.
• Upgrades: Standard coach keeps value high; premium upgrade adds boutique boat and small-group seating for extra space and attention.

Inclusions

• Full-day tour of Milford Sound with return transfers from Queenstown

• Guided nature walks and scenic stops en route

• Expert driver guide commentary

• 1-hour 45-minute fjord cruise

• Boutique small boat cruise of maximum 15 people (if option selected)

Exclusions

• Other food and beverages (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and outdoor activities.
• Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a refillable water bottle and any personal medications you may need.
• Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
• Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

• Large luggage and suitcases are not permitted on the coach or cruise.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed on the coach or cruise vessel.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and boarding/disembarking from vehicles and boats.

Additional information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions; the itinerary may be adjusted for safety or comfort.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Infant seats are available on request; please inform the operator in advance if required.
• Meals are not included unless specified in your ticket variant; you may bring your own snacks or purchase food at designated stops.
• Restroom breaks are provided during the journey, but facilities may be limited in remote areas.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure. Late arrivals may not be accommodated.
• The duration of the tour is approximately 12–13 hours, including transfers.

Shorter travel, calmer crowds, the Te Anau advantage.

• Everything you get: Return coach from Te Anau with expert driver-guide, early cruise slots to beat peak crowds, scenic stops at key viewpoints, live commentary, and a relaxed 8 to 9-hour schedule that pairs well with glowworm cave visits.
• Why choose this: Best for families and planners who want less time on the road and more time in Milford Sound. Starting closer means a smoother, calmer day with fewer travel hassles.

Inclusions

• Full-day guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau

• 2-hour Milford Sound scenic cruise

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Return transfers from Te Anau with stops for short walks

• Live commentary on board

Exclusions

• Lunch & refreshments (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change quickly.
• Bring a rain jacket or waterproof outerwear, as the area is known for frequent rainfall.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks, as options may be limited during the tour.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on the coach or cruise vessel.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Large luggage and suitcases are not allowed; bring only a small day bag.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility due to steps and uneven surfaces.

Additional information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions; cruises may proceed in rain or shine.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Restroom facilities are available on the coach and cruise vessel.
• The itinerary and stops may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
• Infants aged 0–4 may travel free of charge but must be included in your booking.
• Meals are not included; please bring your own food or purchase at available stops.
• The experience includes return transfers between Te Anau and Milford Sound.

See Fiordland twice: by air and by water for the best of both views.

• Everything you get: Full day tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown, return or one-way scenic flights with window seats, pilot commentary over the Alps and glaciers, small-boat cruise for close waterfalls, airport transfers, and weather-first scheduling.
• Why choose this: Best for time-smart travelers. Swap a 13h coach ride for a 5h fly-cruise, delivering Milford’s greatest hits with panoramic views and photos from two angles.
• Upgrades: Go all-flight for maximum savings of time, or mix coach + flight to explore Milford Road’s scenic stops.

Inclusions

• Full or half-day tour of Milford Sound from Queenstown (based on option selected)

• One-way coach to Milford Sound with return flight transfer to Queenstown (if option selected)

• Round-trip scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound (if option selected)

• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise

• Small-group experience

• Live commentary on board

• Complimentary tea, coffee, & water on cruise

• Guaranteed window seats

• Round-trip hotel transfers

Exclusions

• Food and drinks (available for purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and variable weather conditions.
• Bring a warm jacket, as weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable and cool, even in summer.
• Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a water bottle and any personal medication you may need.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the aircraft, coach, or cruise.
• Alcohol, illegal substances, and smoking (including e-cigarettes) are strictly prohibited on all transport and during the cruise.
• Drones and professional photography equipment are not allowed without prior permission.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility. Guests must be able to board and disembark from small aircraft, coaches, and boats independently or with minimal assistance.
• There are no wheelchair-accessible restrooms available during the tour.
• Passengers weighing 140kg (308lb) or more should make a note during booking. For helicopter activities, there is a weight limit of 116kg (255lb).
• A discrepancy exceeding 15kg (33lb) from the declared weight at check-in may lead to rescheduling, depending on availability.

Additional information

• All flights are subject to weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
• Infants must sit on laps; child pricing applies for children aged 2–11 years. Children under 2 years may travel free but must be included in the booking.
• Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• The itinerary and duration may vary depending on weather, traffic, and operational requirements.
• Food and drinks are not included unless specified in your ticket. You may bring your own snacks.
• Restroom facilities are available on the cruise vessel but may be limited during other parts of the tour.
• Please inform the operator in advance of any dietary requirements or medical conditions.
• The experience operates in all weather conditions except when deemed unsafe by the operator. Dress appropriately for changing weather.

Exclusive Milford Sound access after hours: sunset, stars & sunrise.

• Everything you get: Enjoy an overnight cruise on Milford Sound in a private ensuite cabin, complete with a three-course dinner, breakfast, and canapes with local ingredients. Spot native wildlife and enjoy evening kayaking or tender excursions with a specialist nature guide.
• Why choose this: Best for special occasions, couples, and photographers. When day boats leave, the fjord is yours. Catch golden hours, calm nights, and rare dawn stillness away from the daytime rush.
• Upgrades: Drive to the pier yourself, or add transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau for a seamless visit.

Inclusions

• Overnight cruise on Milford Sound

• Access to kayak or small boat for exploring shoreline

• Private cabins with ensuite bathrooms or shared, bunk-style compartments

• Canapés inspired by local ingredients

• 3-course buffet dinner including dessert options

• Continental and buffet breakfast

• Onboard chef

• Wildlife viewing opportunities

• Specialist nature guide

• Round-trip coach transfers from Te Anau and Queenstown (based on option selected)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
• Don’t forget personal toiletries and any necessary medications for your overnight stay.
• Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenic views.
• Bring non-slip walking shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, sweater/fleece jacket, change of clothes, sunscreen/sunglasses, insect repellent, and swimwear for this experience.
• Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
• Bring local currency for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed anywhere on the vessel.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
• Dangerous items, including sharp objects and flammable materials, are strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible. The vessel and some boarding areas may require navigating stairs and uneven surfaces.
• Guests must inform the operator in advance or when booking for guests with limited mobility so that rooms may be assigned in proximity to the main areas.
• Guests can provide their specific dietary requirements when making a booking.

Additional information

• Check-in is required at least 20 minutes before departure; late arrivals may not be accommodated.
• All guests must be aged 5 years or older to participate in the overnight cruise.
• Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice—please inform the operator at least 48 hours before departure.
• The cruise operates in most weather conditions, but may be canceled or rescheduled in the event of severe weather.
• Overnight accommodation is provided in private cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
• Complimentary tea and coffee are available on board.
• Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase; a valid ID is required for alcohol consumption.
• Luggage storage is limited—please bring only essential overnight items in a small bag.
• The use of drones is not permitted on board or in the surrounding area.

Milford’s most personal road-to-sea journey in a small group.

• Everything you get: Return transport from Queenstown in a modern small-group minibus, frequent scenic stops in Fiordland National Park, and a boutique Milford Sound cruise. Includes a gourmet picnic lunch, surprise snacks, expert driver-guides, and fast-tracked boarding.
• Why choose this: Best for families and explorers who want more. With small groups, personal guiding, and tailored stops, you’ll enjoy a crowd-free journey that feels immersive, flexible, and deeply connected to New Zealand's Fiordland.

Inclusions

• Full-day Milford Sound tour from Queenstown

• Small-group return travel by premium minivan

• Hotel pickup and drop-off at select stops

• Guided commentary by local English-speaking driver

• Scenic photo stops in Fiordland National Park

• Boutique Milford Sound sightseeing cruise

• Gourmet picnic lunch with snacks and water

Exclusions

• Child safety car seat for children under 8 years old (NZ$20 per seat if not providing your own)

• Hotel pickup from unlisted properties

• Alcohol, drinks, or additional meals not listed

• Start from Queenstown.
• The following stops will be included on the way to and back from Milford Sound.

Minibus

• Queenstown
• Lake Wakatipu
• Devils Staircase
• Lake Te Anau
• Eglington Valley
• Mirror Lakes
• Lake Gunn
• Hollyford River & Falls Creek
• Darran Mountains
• Homer Tunnel

Cruise These are the sights you can look out for during the cruise:

• Milford Sound
• Mitre Peak
• Pop's View Lookout
• Return to Queenstown

What to bring

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking on your tour.
• Bring clothing for all weather conditions, including a rain or wind jacket.
• Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, rain gear, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.

What’s not allowed

• Non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed.
• Electric wheelchairs are not allowed.
• Bikes are not allowed.
• Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• Children under 8 years old are required to travel in a child safety car seat. These can be supplied for NZ$20 per seat or you may bring your own. Please advise the ages of children when booking.
• Kindly advise of any dietary requirements when booking.
• You will receive an email with important pickup details the day before your tour. Please read this carefully.
• This is a small-group tour by minivan.
• The weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable; it is recommended to bring clothing for all weather conditions.

Inclusions

• Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour

• Cruise across Lake Manapouri

• Coach trip over Wilmot Pass

• Knowledgable nature guide

• Informative commentary

• Interpretation hand-out sheets in 5 languages: English, German, French, Spanish & Japanese

• Complimentary tea & coffee

Exclusions

• Meals & drinks

Inclusions

• 2.5-hour Milford Sound cruise

• Expert nature guide

• Small group experience

• Live commentary on cruise

• Curated canape menu

• A glass of Mumm Champagne

• Reserved seating

• Round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)

Fly in by plane, cruise the fjord, then return by helicopter with an alpine landing.

• Everything you get: Take off from Queenstown on a fixed-wing flight over Fiordland’s alpine valleys, then enjoy a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise with waterfalls, cliffs, and wildlife, plus tea, coffee, and water onboard. Cap the day with a helicopter return, including an alpine landing where you step onto snow for photos. Hotel transfers included.
• Why choose this: Best for travelers who want Milford from every angle. In just hours, you’ll fly above peaks, sail beneath cliffs, and stand on ice.

Inclusions

• 4-hour total experience (flights + cruise + heli landing)

• Scenic fixed-wing flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound

• 2-hour Milford Sound nature cruise with live commentary

• Return helicopter flight to Queenstown with alpine/glacier landing

• Guaranteed window seats and pilot narration throughout

• Complimentary tea, coffee, and water onboard the cruise

• Full safety briefing and all necessary equipment

Exclusions

• Meals beyond included cruise refreshments (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring your sunscreen and insect repellent for the trip.
• Pack for a weather-ready kit; who knows when the skies might decide to be moody?

Accessibility

• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
• Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for pregnant women in their last trimester.

Additional Information

• All flights and tours operate are subject to change according to the weather conditions and minimum numbers.
• There are two time slots available for this tour. If you choose the 10am slot, you will fly on the fixed-wing plane first and return via helicopter after the cruise. If you take the 12pm slot, you will fly on a helicopter first and return via the fixed wing plane after the cruise.