Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise From Queenstown

Embark on an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes with the Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise from Queenstown. This premium tour promises an immersive experience, whisking travelers aboard a glass-roof coach equipped with modern amenities. Along the way, knowledgeable local drivers provide insightful commentary, bringing the stunning vistas to life. But the true highlight awaits on the serene waters of Milford Sound, where a nature cruise and delectable buffet lunch await. Whether you’re a family seeking adventure or a nature enthusiast in search of the sublime, this tour guarantees an experience that will leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 18 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Fiordland and Milford Sound.

Key Points

• A premium glass-roof coach with USB charging ports transports guests on an informative journey through the dramatic landscapes of Milford Sound.
• A nature cruise on Milford Sound offers stunning views of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, with a buffet lunch served on board.
• The tour is highly rated with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews, praised for the knowledgeable and humorous commentary provided by the local guides.
• While the buffet lunch is described as ‘cafeteria style,’ the menu features fresh seafood and Kiwi-inspired desserts to cater to diverse preferences.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions, and rainy days can enhance the visibility of Milford Sound’s waterfalls, creating an unforgettable experience.

Tour Overview and Features

This Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise from Queenstown offers a comprehensive tour experience, featuring round-trip transportation on a premium glass-roof coach with USB charging ports, informative commentary from local drivers, and a Milford Sound nature cruise with a buffet lunch included.

The cruise allows travelers to admire the stunning natural beauty of Milford Sound, with its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The buffet lunch served on board provides a convenient dining option.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so visitors are advised to dress appropriately.

With 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 300 reviews, this tour is a highly recommended way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of Milford Sound.

Schedule and Logistics

The tour departs from the meeting point at 110 Beach Street in Queenstown at 7:00 am, with travelers checking in at the Southern Discoveries office. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, with a maximum of 150 travelers per tour. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Schedule and Logistics
Meeting Point	110 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Check-in Location	Southern Discoveries Office
Start Time	07:00 AM
End Location	Meeting Point
Max. Travelers Per Tour	150
Cancellation Policy	Free up to 24 hours before

Accessibility and Requirements

According to the information provided, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though stroller access is available.

Appropriate child restraints must be supplied by parents or caregivers, as they aren’t provided.

Travelers will receive confirmation of their booking upon reservation.

The tour’s accessibility features include:

• Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller friendly

• Travelers must provide their own child restraints

• Confirmation received at the time of booking

While the tour may not be suitable for all mobility levels, it does cater to families with small children.

The confirmation process and need for parents to bring child seats ensure a smooth and safe experience for all participants.

Customer Experiences and Feedback

Travelers have praised the tour’s knowledgeable and humorous guides, highlighting the scenic views and ample photo opportunities.

Reviewers offered mixed feedback on the buffet lunch, describing it as ‘cafeteria style.’

The breathtaking scenery and generally well-organized nature of the tour have earned it a solid average rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 329 reviews.

Many travelers commented on the tour’s ability to showcase Milford Sound’s stunning natural beauty, with some noting that rainy weather can actually enhance the visibility of the region’s famous waterfalls.

While a few customers expressed concerns over the tour’s refund policy and the long duration of the trip, the Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise remains a highly recommended experience for visitors to Queenstown.

Scenic Coach Journey

The scenic coach journey to Milford Sound sets the stage for the day’s adventure, transporting visitors through a dramatic landscape of towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and pristine rainforest.

Onboard the premium glass-roof coaches, travelers can sit back and soak in the stunning vistas while enjoying the informative commentary provided by the knowledgeable local drivers.

The experience is further enhanced by:

• USB charging ports on board, allowing passengers to keep their devices powered throughout the trip.

• Comfortable seating with ample legroom, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable ride.

• The opportunity to capture breathtaking photos through the panoramic windows, creating lasting memories of the journey.

Milford Sound Cruise

The Milford Sound Nature Cruise provides visitors with a captivating exploration of the dramatic fiord, offering unparalleled views of the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and diverse marine life that call this pristine wilderness home.

Aboard the comfortable cruise vessel, travelers can delight in a delicious buffet lunch as they glide across the serene waters, accompanied by informative commentary from the knowledgeable crew.

Whether it’s spotting seals lounging on the rocks or marveling at the thunderous Stirling Falls, the Milford Sound cruise delivers an unforgettable experience that showcases the raw, untamed beauty of New Zealand’s Southwest.

With ample photo opportunities and stunning vistas, this cruise is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on it.

Dining Options

Complementing the serene cruise across Milford Sound, the tour offers a delectable buffet lunch to satisfy travelers’ appetites.

Served aboard the comfortable vessel, the buffet showcases a selection of local and international cuisine, catering to diverse tastes and dietary requirements.

The menu features:

• A variety of fresh seafood, including succulent New Zealand salmon and local Bluff oysters

• A range of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal

• Decadent desserts, such as creamy Kiwi-inspired pavlova and indulgent chocolate cakes, to round off the dining experience.

While some travelers have noted the cafeteria-style presentation, the buffet is praised for its quality ingredients and ability to cater to a wide range of preferences.

Additional Considerations

Beyond the captivating scenery and delectable dining, travelers should consider several additional factors when booking the Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise.

While the tour operates in all weather conditions, the duration of the experience—a 3.5-hour bus ride each way and a 1.5-hour cruise—may be a consideration for some.

On top of that, weather can significantly enhance the visibility of Milford Sound’s impressive waterfalls, with rainy days often favored for this reason.

Lastly, the refund policy has been a point of concern for some guests, particularly in cases of cruise cancellations, so it’s advisable to review the tour’s terms and conditions prior to booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Total Travel Time for the Tour?

The total travel time for the tour is approximately 5 hours. This includes a 3.5-hour bus ride from Queenstown to Milford Sound and a 1.5-hour scenic cruise on Milford Sound itself.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers are typically allowed to bring their own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on the cruise, though alcoholic beverages are available for purchase on board. Checking the tour provider’s policies beforehand is recommended to confirm any restrictions.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available on the Coach and Cruise?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the coach and cruise. The coach has onboard restrooms, and the cruise ship also provides restrooms for passengers to use during the scenic Milford Sound journey.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Milford Sound?

The best time to visit Milford Sound is during the summer months from November to April when the weather is milder, with longer daylight hours and higher chances of sunny skies. However, rainy days can enhance the dramatic waterfalls.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Cruise Is Canceled Due to Weather?

The cancellation policy typically allows for a full refund if the cruise is canceled due to inclement weather. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the specific policy, as it may vary based on the tour company and booking details.

Recap

The Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise from Queenstown offers an unforgettable day of stunning landscapes, insightful commentary, and delectable local cuisine.

Travelers can expect a premium glass-roof coach journey, a nature cruise, and a buffet lunch showcasing the best of New Zealand’s culinary offerings.

With high customer ratings, this adventure caters to families and nature enthusiasts alike, promising an immersive and memorable experience.