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Giant Gate Falls

Te Anau to Milford Sound Tours

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Top experiences in Te Anau

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Milford Sound cruise boat on scenic fjord with mountains, Te Anau day trip.

Milford Sound cruise ship with scenic mountain views, Queenstown day trip experience.

Milford Sound cruise boat on water surrounded by mountains, Te Anau to Milford return transfers.

Eglinton Valley landscape on route from Te Anau to Milford Sound during scenic cruise tour.

Milford Sound cruise boat on water surrounded by mountains, Te Anau to Milford tour.

Milford Sound cruise with scenic views, featuring fjords and waterfalls, Te Anau return transfers.

Milford Sound cruise boat on fjord with mountains, Te Anau to Milford transfer.

Milford Sound cruise with scenic views, departing from Te Anau, featuring return transfers.

Milford Sound cruise with mountain views and greenery, Queenstown day trip.

Passengers on a coach tour from Edinburgh to Loch Ness, enjoying scenic views.

4.4(109)

From Te Anau: Milford Cruise & Return Transfers

from

NZ$220

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr

Transfers included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION8 hours

MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus

Timeline

Map

START POINT

Te Anau

Get direction

Start your trip here; enjoy the views, grab a coffee, and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Passes by

Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes

Hollyford Lookout

Homer Tunnel

Milford Sound Terminal

Tickets included

The gateway to Milford Sound, where you can embark on a cruise to explore one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.

END POINT

Te Anau

Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.

Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.

Inclusions

Full-day tour to Milford Sound from Te Anau
2-hour Milford Sound cruise
English-speaking driver/guide
Round-trip transfers with stops for short walks
Complimentary tea & coffee on-board

Tip: Pack motion sickness tablets for the winding Milford Road. Even if you don't usually get car sick, the serpentine route can catch you off guard.
The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reviews

How do we collect reviews?

4.4

109 ratings

What our guests say

Ivan

May 2025Verified booking

5/5

Spectacular in its completeness, Brian a genius of driving and explanation.

View original review in Spanish

Phavit

Apr 2025Verified booking

5/5

The transfer was really good, also the driver was really nice and kinds to everyone. The coach was comfortable and the cruise was excellence.

Ian

Apr 2025Verified booking

5/5

The driver was awesome and very entertaining

Penelope

May 2025Verified booking

4/5

LAURENT

May 2025Verified booking

5/5

JEAN-JOSEPH

Apr 2025Verified booking

5/5

Richard

Apr 2025Verified booking

4/5

Dominique

Apr 2025Verified booking

4/5

George

Apr 2025Verified booking

4/5

Fiona

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Chou our driver was great, very informative and funny. The weather was perfect, thank you for arranging that. The trip on the water was spectacular, more than we expected. The guide on the ship was excellent. Booking was easy, the directions were great.

Angela

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Everything! The bus ride to the cruise was great. The commentary was informative and gave so much information along the way. The transfer to the boat was seamless and the ride back restful. The cruise commentary was appreciated and all staff friendly. Thanks everyone.

Ian

Feb 2025Verified booking

5/5

The bus trip was very informative and relevent - Thank you Scarlet. The cruise was beautiful and well worth it. Friendly staff on the boat with good commentary and a nice lunch.

Gabriela

Feb 2025Verified booking

4/5

Very professional and friendly guide/driver (Caren?), beautiful landscape. One thing to mention: we didn't know that the bus was coming from Queenstown and that it was nearly full. We joined the party in Te Anau and had to take the seats at the very rear of the bus. That is not okay, especially when you are very early at the meeting point!

Sharon

Jan 2025Verified booking

5/5

The guides on the bus and the boat were both very knowledgeable and made it a most enjoyable experience. Would recommend

Jacob

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

RealNZ was easy to travel with! We would definitely use them again in the future.

Dr.

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

The bus driver was great. He gave a huge amount of interesting information.

Mitchell

Feb 2025Verified booking

5/5

Great tour and driver Awesome experience

vedantam

Jan 2025Verified booking

4/5

Good service, commentary and food / drink at the bar.

Olaf

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Robert

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Nico

Mar 2025Verified booking

4/5

Bryce

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Francelle

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Norbert

Mar 2025Verified booking

4/5

Anne-Marie

Mar 2025Verified booking

4/5

Group of tourists enjoying the Premium Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise, departing from Te Anau, amidst serene waters and lush green mountains

Scenic view of Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise departing from Te Anau, showcasing the serene waters and lush greenery unique to the tour

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise showcasing the breathtaking Wilmot Pass landscape in Te Anau, New Zealand

Dolphins swimming near the boat during the Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise in Te Anau, New Zealand

Seal resting on a rock during the Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise in Te Anau, New Zealand

Group of Fiordland crested penguins on the rocky shore during a Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise in Te Anau, New Zealand

Tourists on Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise, surrounded by New Zealand fjords, Te Anau transfer.

4.3(114)

From Te Anau: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise

from

NZ$361

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr 45 min

Transfers included

A treat for nature lovers, experience a full-day tour of Doubtful Sound as you begin your odyssey from Te Anau through rolling hills and lush valleys.
Enjoy a complimentary coffee/tea while learning about Doubtful Sound’s glacial origins and rich Maori heritage from your guide.
Set sail on Lake Manapouri’s tranquil waters, then cross the breathtaking Wilmot Pass for panoramic views of verdant rainforests and rugged peaks.
Marvel at the diverse wildlife – from whales and albatrosses to the elusive Fiordland crested penguins against a backdrop of stunning beauty.
Pick up your cameras and snap incredible pictures of the Browne Falls while relaxing on a 3-hour catamaran cruise.

A treat for nature lovers, experience a full-day tour of Doubtful Sound as you begin your odyssey from Te Anau through rolling hills and lush valleys.
Enjoy a complimentary coffee/tea while learning about Doubtful Sound’s glacial origins and rich Maori heritage from your guide.
Set sail on Lake Manapouri’s tranquil waters, then cross the breathtaking Wilmot Pass for panoramic views of verdant rainforests and rugged peaks.
Marvel at the diverse wildlife – from whales and albatrosses to the elusive Fiordland crested penguins against a backdrop of stunning beauty.
Pick up your cameras and snap incredible pictures of the Browne Falls while relaxing on a 3-hour catamaran cruise.

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

Hall Arm is a scenic masterpiece that showcases nature's beauty at its finest. Get your camera ready when you pass and prepare for a visual treat.
Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.
Pack a waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, and non-slip shoes/boots for a weather-ready kit; who knows when the skies might decide to be moody?

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Reviews

How do we collect reviews?

4.3

114 ratings

What our guests say

Horacio

Apr 2025Verified booking

5/5

Amazing!!..A very different and profound experience..

Gregory

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Fantastic experience the whoke journey was amazing and informative we we very lucky with beautiful weather however this impacted the number of waterfalls . the team were very interesting and knowledgeable which kept the experience engrossing. Just loved it

John

Mar 2025Verified booking

5/5

Very well organized and informative. In particular, enjoyed the narration by Chris as we drove from Te Anau to Manapouri and back. Great guy!

GROUX

Mar 2025Verified booking

4/5

Klaus

Mar 2025Verified booking

4/5

Headout Guest

Dec 2024Verified booking

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5/5

Headout Guest

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5/5

Headout Guest

Nov 2024Verified booking

4/5

Te Anau to Milford Sound Tours

Start your Te Anau to Milford Sound adventure

Nestled on the edge of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is not just a pit stop—it’s the ultimate launchpad for your Milford Sound adventure. This picturesque lakeside town is where your journey begins, leading you through alpine landscapes, winding mountain roads, and stunning fiords. Whether you’re chasing great photography spots, wildlife encounters, or simply some time in nature, the road from Te Anau to Milford Sound is packed with unforgettable sights at every turn.

What to expect on your journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

1/5

Transfers

Take the scenic route from Te Anau to Milford in a comfortable AC coach. The tours offer pick-ups right from your hotel and take you on a journey with seasoned drivers and guides.

Plan your trip from Te Anau to Milford Sound

Timings

Food

Facilities & accessibility

Accommodation

Rules

Milford Sound cruise with scenic views, Te Anau return transfers.

Boarding point: Your journey begins in Te Anau. Look for your designated boarding point at the local coach station or hotel pick-up area.
Start times and transfers: Comfortable air-conditioned coaches depart from Te Anau as early as 7:20am. Enjoy a scenic transfer that leads you directly to Milford Sound, with your cruise starting shortly after arrival. Always check your voucher for the boarding time and location, and arrive at least 15 minutes early.

Best time to visit Milford Sound

A couple enjoys a relaxed dining experience aboard a cruise in Doubtful Sound, toasting with glasses of champagne

Onboard refreshments: Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee during your cruise to keep you refreshed as you marvel at the stunning views.
Local eats: Te Anau has a variety of cozy cafés and restaurants where you can savor hearty breakfasts or lunches before your journey. In Milford Sound, dining options are limited, so plan to enjoy a meal in Te Anau or pack a light snack.

Doubtful Sound fjord view from cruise ship deck, Te Anau overnight tour.

Facilities: Depending on the vessel, you may find modern washrooms, comfortable lounge areas, and spacious observation decks perfect for snapping photos.
Accessibility: Many tours are designed with accessibility in mind—wheelchair-accessible options are available. Inform your operator in advance about any special needs, as foldable wheelchairs may be required for some vessels.

Plan your experience

Where to stay in Te Anau:

Distinction Te Anau Hotel & Conference Centre – A comfortable, centrally located hotel offering modern amenities and stunning lake views.
Fiordland Lodge – An inviting retreat with a rustic charm, perfect for a cozy night’s rest before or after your adventure.
Te Anau Lakeview Motel & Resort – Family-friendly and budget-conscious, with scenic views and convenient access to local attractions.

Attend all safety briefings and follow crew instructions diligently.
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and stick to designated paths during guided walks.
Dispose of waste properly and help preserve the pristine environment of Milford Sound.
Be aware that some activities may have age or fitness restrictions—ensure that all participants are prepared for the physical demands of the tour.

Tips to make the most of your journey

The weather in Fiordland can change in a heartbeat. Pack extra layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes—even if the forecast looks clear. A portable umbrella or raincoat can be a lifesaver, especially during those sudden showers.
Early departures not only mean fewer crowds and calmer seas (a bonus for those prone to seasickness) but also provide softer light for photography. Peak season (Dec–Feb) fills up fast, so secure your spot well in advance.
The transfer from Te Anau to Milford Sound is as much a part of the adventure as the cruise itself. Expect some winding, bumpy roads—if you're sensitive to motion, take your seasickness medication before boarding. Bring along a travel pillow for extra comfort during the scenic ride.
With limited mobile coverage along the route, download offline maps and store boarding information on your phone. Keep a power bank handy to keep your devices charged for capturing those unforgettable views.
While onboard refreshments include tea and coffee, it's wise to pack extra snacks and water—especially for families or those with specific dietary needs. This way, you'll be well-prepared for the long day ahead without having to rely solely on limited options at Milford Sound.

Sights to see on your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour

Live the Te Anau to Milford Sound tour, where every pitstop has a story to tell. Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers some of the best memories of the land.

Milford Track

The Milford Track, set in Fiordland National Park, known for its amazing views and rugged terrain. While the full hike takes four days, you can experience its beauty on your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour.

See all photos

Looking for more fun things to do in Milford Sound? Our detailed Milford Sound guide covers everything you need to know.

Frequently asked questions about Te Anau to Milford Sound tours

What are the best tour options from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

The tours from Te Anau to Milford Sound offer a range of experiences to suit various preferences and budgets. A standard Te Anau to Milford Sound ticket starts from NZ$220 and includes guided coach journey and 2-hour boat cruise. And if you’re looking for something luxurious, you can opt for an overnight stay at private cabins at NZ$1,449.

What’s the best season to go from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

In the summer, you’ll see lush landscapes with warmer weather. Winter adds snow-capped peaks for a magical view but expect cooler temps. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant colors and quieter trails. Read our guide to the best time to visit Milford Sound for more information.

How do I get from Te Anau to the Milford Sound tour starting point?

Most tours include transfers from Te Anau to Milford Sound. You’ll be picked up in a comfy coach with panoramic windows, perfect for enjoying the scenery along the way.

Do I need to prepare for changing weather?

Milford Sound is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s wise to pack layers and a waterproof jacket—especially since rain creates stunning waterfalls. Even on a sunny day, things can change quickly.

Are there meals included on this tour?

Some tours offer lunch onboard the cruise or a packed picnic. If meals aren’t included, grab some snacks or a packed lunch, as options are limited once you’re en route to Milford Sound.

How to park at Te Anau or Milford Sound if I’m driving?

Parking can be tricky, especially at Milford Sound during peak times. Most people choose a tour with pick-up from Te Anau to skip the hassle, but if you’re driving, arrive early for parking availability.

How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound drive, and are there rest stops?

The drive takes around 2 hours without stops, but most tours have breaks to enjoy scenic spots like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, plus a rest stop halfway for stretching your legs and grabbing a snack.

Is the trip accessible for people with limited mobility?

Some tours offer accessible options, but it’s best to check the tickets to ensure your specific needs are met, especially for stops along the way and boarding the cruise at Milford Sound.

Is the journey suitable for kids?

Yes, kids usually love the mix of bus and boat travel, plus the chance to spot animals. Bring snacks and something to keep them entertained on the longer stretches of the drive.

Will I have mobile coverage?

Most of the drive has little to no mobile signal. It’s a remote area, so prepare to disconnect and enjoy the wild landscapes. The visitor center at Milford Sound has Wi-Fi for a quick reconnect if needed.

Is there a particular side of the cruise for better views?

Both sides have incredible views, but the starboard (right) side often faces some of the more stunning cliffs and waterfalls.

How long is the drive, and are there rest stops?

The transfer from Te Anau to Milford Sound typically takes about 2 hours without stops, but most tours include scenic breaks at spots like Mirror Lakes and The Chasm for photo opportunities and stretching your legs.

Is the trip family-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids enjoy the mix of coach transfers and boat cruises, plus the chance to spot playful wildlife along the way. Just pack extra snacks and entertainment for the journey.

Is it better to stay at Te Anau or Milford Sound?

Most travelers choose to stay in Te Anau because Milford Sound has very limited accommodation options. Te Anau is a charming town with plenty of amenities, making it the ideal base for your adventure.

What is the drive like from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

Expect a scenic, winding journey that takes about 2 hours without stops. The route offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, though it can be bumpy on winding roads—so if you're sensitive to motion, consider taking precautions.

Is there a tunnel between Te Anau and Milford Sound?

Yes, the journey includes the 1.2 km Homer Tunnel—a fascinating engineering feat that adds to the adventure of the scenic drive.

From happy customers

Melissa

New Zealand

Apr, 2025

+ 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!

Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise

Liu,

Taiwan

Apr, 2025

1.The driver & captain introduced the views very clearl ! 2.Milford sounds very beautiful! 3.There are many places to visit during the trip!

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

David

Australia

Mar, 2025

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.

Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne

New Zealand

Mar, 2025

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.

Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne

Gilbert

United States

Mar, 2025

+ 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.

Milford Sound Cruise

Kevin

United Kingdom

Mar, 2025

We had the most amazing weather to begin with. Plus the crew and the boat captain (doing the commentary/speaking) was so fun it made the experience even better! 💯 recommend it!

Milford Sound Cruise

Fiona

New Zealand

Mar, 2025

From Te Anau: Milford Cruise & Return Transfers

Beiting

Feb, 2025

Everything is amazing. A comfortable trip within only 5 hours driving from Queen's town. The plane is extremely amazing. The scenery is beautiful. Enjoy myself whole day.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise