Milford Sound Cruise

Witness Mother Nature's masterpieces

Set sail on a serene 1-hour 45-minute Milford Sound cruise aboard one of the 2 modern and spacious catamarans, Maiden of Milford or Gem of the Sound. This journey takes you through one of the most picturesque and wettest landscapes in the world. Here, you'll be mesmerized by cascading waterfalls, majestic cliffs, and lush rainforests. The water here is an exotic shade of inky black, which is a combination of river and seawater. Amazingly, it is formed such that there are 6 meters of fresh water over the ocean water. The convenient habitat built as a result allows deep-sea life to thrive.

See iconic landmarks from another angle

Your journey spans the vast fjord, passing by landmarks such as Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen, and Stirling Falls. Witness the beauty of Fairy Falls and spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and Fiordland Crested Penguins, all while enjoying a cozy beverage. Whether you're out on the deck or peering through our expansive windows, every view is a spectacle. Our guides will enrich your experience with engaging tales and insights, deepening your connection with these natural marvels.

Milford Sound Cruise

Discover Milford Sound on this sightseeing tour that includes a 2-hour cruise, live narration in English and Japanese, and visits to iconic landmarks such as Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and the Fiordland crested penguin habitat. The tour embarks from Te Anau or Queenstown and covers approximately 150 kilometers of stunning fjords. With a duration of 6 hours, this cruise offers unparalleled views of steep cliffs rising from dark waters, unique geology, and abundant wildlife. Guests can expect to see seals, dolphins, and penguins while enjoying hot beverages on the viewing deck. The tour includes an onboard lounge for comfort during inclement weather. Milford Sound itself is a fjord carved by glaciers over 10,000 years ago, making it one of New Zealand's most spectacular natural wonders.

Explore Lady Bowen Falls

Your tour stops at Lady Bowen Falls where you can admire the cascading water from a height of 457 feet. Established in 1862 when Captain James Cook named it after his wife, this waterfall is one of Milford Sound's most iconic landmarks. The falls drop into the fjord, creating a misty spray that adds to its dramatic beauty. Visitors typically spend about 30 minutes here, taking photos and learning about the geology from the skipper’s narration. Lady Bowen Falls stands out for its sheer height and the way it illuminates the surrounding cliffs with water droplets. Unlike many other falls in New Zealand, this one is particularly notable for being visible from both land and sea, offering a unique perspective.

Marvel at Stirling Falls

Your tour continues to Stirling Falls where you can witness the majestic 508-foot waterfall plunging into Milford Sound. This impressive cascade was named after Sir Thomas Stirling, a colonial governor who visited in the late 19th century. The falls are unique for their sheer drop and the fresh glacial melt that creates an exhilarating mist as it hits the water below. Visitors often spend around 20 minutes here to soak up the breathtaking views and feel the spray on their skin. Stirling Falls is particularly significant due to its contribution to the fjord’s ecosystem, providing essential nutrients for marine life.

Tour Highlights

• Embark on a Milford Sound cruise at Te Anau or Queenstown
• Sail past Mitre Peak and Lady Bowen Falls with stunning views
• Admire the 508-foot Stirling Falls from your viewing deck
• Enjoy live narration in English and Japanese by the skipper
• Savor hot tea or coffee while spotting seals, dolphins, and penguins
• Explore Fiordland crested penguin habitat along the fjord shores
• Access onboard lounge for comfort during inclement weather
• Experience unparalleled views of steep cliffs rising from dark waters

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers, this sightseeing tour provides an immersive experience through guided narration and stunning landscapes. The 6-hour format allows you to explore iconic landmarks like Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Milford Sound's natural beauty while enjoying the unique geology and abundant wildlife.