Te Anau to Milford Sound Tours

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.
• Upgrades: Opt for an intimate small-group tour and a small-boat boutique cruise for a more personal experience.

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.

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
• Dress warmly and in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
• Bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable, non-slip footwear.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Bring your preferred payment method 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.
• Large luggage and bulky items are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

• The cruise is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with limited mobility may find access challenging.

Additional information

• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
• The cruise operates in all weather conditions; cruises may be subject to change or cancellation in extreme weather.
• Milford Sound is a natural environment so wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Restrooms are available on board.
• Commentary is provided during the cruise to enhance your experience.
• Infants aged 0–3 can join free of charge but must be included in your booking.
• Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, but is not assigned.

Inclusions #

• Up to a 2-hour extended cruise of Milford Sound

• Expert naturalist commentary

• Complimentary tea & coffee onboard

• Access to a licensed bar onboard

• Wildlife spotting guide

• Indoor and outdoor viewing decks

• Full-day tour to Milford Sound with round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)

• Picnic lunch (check menu here) (if option selected)

Exclusions #

• Other food & alcoholic beverages (available to purchase onboard)

• Parking at terminal

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.
• Fares are per guest. Double and twin-share cabins require a minimum of 2 guests. A single occupancy option is available at a higher fare.

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)

Inclusions #

• Full-length overnight cruise of Doubtful Sound

• Expert nature guide

• Coach transfers from Te Anau

• Coach trip over Wilmot Pass

• Cruise across Lake Manapouri

• Complimentary tea & coffee

• 3-course dinner

• Cooked breakfast

• Kayak or tender boat ride (weather dependent)

Exclusions #

• Drinks from the licensed bar (additional expense)

Inclusions #

• Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour
• Knowledgeable nature guide
• Coach transfers from Te Anau to Manapouri
• 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise
• Lake Manapouri cruise
• Coach trip over Wilmot Pass
• Complimentary tea & coffee

Exclusions #

• Food & beverages
• Drinks from the open bar

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.

Inclusions #

• 1-hour 45-minute to 2-hour 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 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.

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)