From Queenstown: Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour with Cruise & Lunch

Journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound on a premium small-group tour that blends a scenic road trip with a boutique fjord cruise. Along the way, enjoy handpicked stops, expert commentary, and a picnic lunch.

Getting started

Begin your adventure with pickup from select Queenstown hotels or a central meeting point. Settle into a comfortable minivan, meet your friendly guide, and get a preview of the day’s highlights before heading towards Fiordland.

What to expect

This tour takes you deep into Milford Sound, the crown jewel of Fiordland National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “eighth wonder of the world.” Towering cliffs rise straight from the water, waterfalls plunge hundreds of meters into the fjord, and wildlife like seals and dolphins thrive in this untouched wilderness. Traveling in a small group ensures you can stop at hidden lookouts, enjoy stories from your guide, and board a boutique cruise where the scenery feels close and personal, making this the most rewarding way to experience New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonder.

Features

• Scenic Fiordland drive: Travel via Lake Wakatipu, the Devil’s Staircase, and the Homer Tunnel, stopping often for photos, short walks, and wildlife encounters

• Boutique Milford Sound cruise: Board a smaller vessel for closer views of Mitre Peak, tumbling waterfalls, and native wildlife, away from the big-boat crowds

• Mirror Lakes & Hollyford River: Pause at Mirror Lakes, where reflections of the mountains shimmer on still waters, and admire the Hollyford River winding through the valley

• Picnic lunch included: Enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch, snacks, and water provided during the day, with special meals available for infants

• Expert local guide: Hear fascinating stories about Fiordland’s geology, history, and wildlife throughout the journey

After the cruise, relax on the comfortable return drive to Queenstown, pausing in Te Anau for a short break before drop-off at your original location.

Know before you go

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.