The dramatic waters of Milford Sound can be explored through several outstanding boat options. Modern catamarans offer comfortable 2-hour scenic cruises – my favorite way to see the major highlights, including Mitre Peak and Bowen Falls. Nature lovers will appreciate the smaller boat tours, which get closer to fur seals and rare Fiordland crested penguins.
For active travelers, I recommend combining a cruise with kayaking – it’s a fantastic way to paddle beneath towering cliffs and next to thundering waterfalls. The full-day cruise and Milford Track walking combo provides the most complete experience, though it requires good fitness.
Don’t miss the Underwater Observatory, where you can descend 30 feet below the surface to view rare black coral and colorful fish species found nowhere else.
Let’s look at the very best cruise options in Milford Sound.
Key Points
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Scenic Cruises offer 105-minute catamaran tours showcasing Milford Sound’s waterfalls, rainforests, and wildlife, with accessibility features and flexible cancellation policies.
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Kayaking Adventures provide immersive experiences, including the top-rated “Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise” and the popular “Fly | Cruise | Fly” option.
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Guided Hiking and Nature Tours combine a Milford Track hike with a nature cruise, offering a personalized small-group experience for those with a good fitness level.
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Underwater Observatory Experiences provide a unique marine life perspective through a 2.5-hour small group cruise with a gourmet canape lunch.
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Nature Cruises aboard a purpose-built catamaran offer 1.5-2 hour tours with opportunities to spot seals, dolphins, and penguins, along with live commentary.
Milford Sound: Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Rainforest Cruise
What better way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound than on a scenic cruise?
Priced at $91.67 per person, the 105-minute Milford Sound cruise offers a modern catamaran experience with three indoor and outdoor viewing decks.
Passengers can marvel at the stunning waterfalls, lush rainforest, and diverse wildlife, including seals and dolphins, while enjoying live on-board commentary.
The cruise operates with a free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option.
Wheelchair users can access the bottom deck, but the entry door and onboard toilets may pose challenges.
Customers rate the overall experience highly, though some have reported issues with staff and service during adverse weather.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Rainforest Cruise Review
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Cruise & Kayak Milford Sound
For a truly immersive experience in Milford Sound, visitors can combine a scenic cruise with a guided kayaking adventure. The top-rated “Milford Sound: Boutique Small-Boat Cruise” offers a 2-12 hour option with pickup, a 4.9 rating, and prices from $99.95 per person. Guests can also opt for the “Milford Sound: Fly | Cruise | Fly” tour, the #1 selling water activity, which includes a 4.5-hour experience with a 4.9 rating and prices from $395.68. Those seeking a more intimate exploration can choose the “Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise” with its 4.8 rating and likely sell-out status, priced from $91.67.
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Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise
Travelers seeking an immersive Milford Sound experience can embark on the Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise.
This popular tour includes a water taxi to the Milford Track, a 3.5-hour guided hike, and a 2-hour Milford Sound boat cruise. Along the way, hikers can admire the lush forest, Giant Gate Waterfall, and iconic Mitre Peak.
The small-group tour, limited to 12 participants, provides the services of a professional hiking guide. While the hike requires good fitness, the mostly flat trail offers stunning scenery.
Travelers should come prepared with rain gear and warm clothing. With a 4.7/5 rating based on 41 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for money.
Read our full review: Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise Review
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Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise
Visitors seeking a more intimate Milford Sound experience can embark on the 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise. Priced at $91.67 per person, this tour offers a closer look at the fiord’s natural wonders.
Guests can expect a live English-speaking guide, frequent stops at scenic points, and the chance to see wildlife like seals, dolphins, and rare Fiordland Crested Penguins.
The small boat, with a maximum capacity of 75, provides indoor and outdoor viewing areas and complimentary hot beverages.
Wheelchair accessibility, nearby parking, and early boarding for passengers with disabilities make this cruise an inclusive option.
Positive reviews highlight the waterfalls, wildlife, and overall experience, though some note issues with loudspeaker clarity.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: 2-Hour Small Boat Scenic Cruise Review
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Milford Sound: Cruise and Underwater Observatory
Combining a Milford Sound cruise with a visit to the underwater observatory offers visitors a unique perspective on the region’s captivating natural wonders.
The 2.5-hour Premium Small Group Cruise with Canape Lunch provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to witness the stunning fiord from the water while enjoying a gourmet spread.
Following the cruise, the Underwater Observatory offers a rare chance to explore the marine life beneath the surface. Rated 5 out of 5 stars by reviewers, this premium tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the ecosystem of Milford Sound.
With limited daily bookings, this tour is likely to sell out, so early reservations are recommended.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: Cruise and Underwater Observatory Review
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Milford Sound: Nature Cruise With Optional Lunch
Although Milford Sound is renowned for its dramatic fiords and cascading waterfalls, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise offers a more intimate and immersive experience of this natural wonder.
Priced at $94.04 per person, the 1.5-2 hour cruise aboard a purpose-built catamaran provides 360-degree views and the chance to spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and penguins.
The journey includes both sides of the fjord and out to the Tasman Sea, with live commentary on the region’s history, geology, and fauna. Picnic lunch options are available, and the cruise departs from the Milford Sound Visitor Centre, a 5-hour drive from Queenstown.
With an overall rating of 4.6/5 based on 498 reviews, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise is a must-do activity for visitors.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: Nature Cruise With Optional Lunch Review
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Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran
Offering a unique and immersive experience, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise on a modern catamaran invites visitors to explore the dramatic fiords and cascading waterfalls of this natural wonder.
Priced from $91.67 per person, the 105-minute cruise aboard a comfortable, spacious catamaran provides ample opportunities to spot New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and Fiordland Crested Penguins.
With three levels of indoor and outdoor seating, passengers can enjoy live commentary from experienced skippers and enjoy the captivating scenery.
The vessel’s accessibility features, including a wheelchair-accessible bottom deck, ensure a comfortable experience for all.
Praised for its value and crew quality, the Milford Sound Nature Cruise delivers an unforgettable nature encounter.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: Nature Cruise on a Modern Catamaran Review
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Recap
Milford Sound offers a range of cruise and boat tour options to suit different interests and budgets. From short scenic cruises to full-day guided hikes and nature cruises, visitors can explore the stunning landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife of this natural wonder. Whether you prefer a modern catamaran or a small boat, there’s a Milford Sound tour that’ll make your visit an unforgettable experience.