Milford Sound Sightseeing Cruise With Optional Picnic or Buffet

Milford Sound is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled within New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. Visitors can embark on a sightseeing cruise to witness the awe-inspiring landscapes firsthand, including the iconic Mitre Peak and cascading waterfalls. The cruise offers the option of a picnic or buffet lunch, providing a delightful dining experience amidst the stunning scenery. With knowledgeable commentary and the chance to spot local marine life, this adventure promises an unforgettable journey through one of the world’s most beautiful and untamed regions. Those seeking to enjoy the untamed beauty of Fiordland won’t want to miss this opportunity.

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

Key Points

• The Milford Sound Sightseeing Cruise departs from Milford Wharf and showcases the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park, featuring iconic sights like Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls.
• The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with knowledgeable crew providing informative commentary on the natural features and wildlife observed during the journey.
• Complimentary tea and coffee are available onboard, and an optional picnic or buffet lunch can be selected during the booking process.
• The cruise has a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience, and offers transportation and parking options for convenience.
• The cruise has received an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 176 reviews, with positive remarks on the stunning scenery and opportunities to spot marine life.

Overview and Experience

The Milford Sound cruise offers visitors a chance to explore the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park, with the journey departing from the Milford Wharf and showcasing the majestic Mitre Peak and captivating waterfalls along the way.

Travelers can expect to observe an array of marine life, including bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals. Notable sights include the breathtaking Bowen Falls, the powerful Stirling Falls, and the tranquil Seal Point.

The cruise provides a full commentary on the natural features and wildlife, allowing guests to gain a deeper appreciation for this incredible landscape.

Rudyard Kipling famously described Milford Sound as the ‘Eighth Natural Wonder of the World,’ a testament to its awe-inspiring beauty.

Itinerary and Duration

Meeting point for the Milford Sound cruise is the Southern Discoveries – Milford Sound Visitor Centre, where the total activity duration is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes.

The cruise includes a full commentary on the natural features and wildlife encountered along the journey, and an optional lunch is available for those who select it during booking.

Enjoy the stunning scenery as the knowledgeable crew provides informative narration about the majestic Fiordland National Park.

Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, or take advantage of the free parking at the nearby Deepwater Basin, just a 30-minute walk to the terminal.

With a maximum capacity of 200 travelers, the cruise offers an intimate and memorable experience exploring the ‘Eighth Natural Wonder of the World.’

Amenities and Services

Complementing the immersive cruise experience, Southern Discoveries provides complimentary tea and coffee onboard to help travelers stay refreshed throughout the journey.

Plus, guests can opt for hotel pickup and drop-off services, ensuring a seamless start and end to their Milford Sound adventure.

For those driving, parking is available at the Milford Sound carpark for $10 per hour, or visitors can take advantage of the free parking at the nearby Deepwater Basin, which is a 30-minute walk to the terminal.

Whether enjoying the complimentary refreshments or taking advantage of the convenient transportation and parking options, the Milford Sound Sightseeing Cruise with Southern Discoveries offers a well-rounded experience for visitors to explore the stunning natural beauty of this UNESCO-listed wonder.

Reviews and Feedback

With 176 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars, travelers have provided a mix of experiences regarding the Milford Sound Cruise with Southern Discoveries.

While some praised the knowledgeable captains and stunning views, others criticized the crowdedness and meal service.

Positive comments highlighted:

• The captains’ extensive knowledge of the natural features and wildlife

• The breathtaking scenery, including Mitre Peak and thundering waterfalls

• The opportunity to spot bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals

However, some visitors noted the need for better organization surrounding the meal service and the cruise duration.

Important Information

The Milford Sound Cruise has a maximum capacity of 200 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed.

Confirmation is received at booking, and travelers should advise their country of origin when making the reservation. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

The cruise departs from the Milford Wharf, where ample parking is available for $10 per hour. Alternatively, travelers can park for free at the Deepwater Basin, which is a 30-minute walk to the terminal.

With stunning scenery, knowledgeable captains, and a range of amenities, the Milford Sound Cruise offers an unforgettable experience in one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

Cruise Schedule

Milford Sound cruises operate throughout the day, with regular departures from the Milford Wharf. Travelers can choose from a variety of tour options, including scenic cruises, wildlife encounters, and specialized excursions. The schedule is designed to accommodate visitors’ needs and preferences:

Morning cruises offer the opportunity to explore the fiord when it’s most serene, with the chance to witness the dramatic landscape under the soft light of dawn.

Afternoon cruises provide a more lively experience, with the potential to spot marine life such as bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals.

Evening cruises allow guests to witness the stunning scenery bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun.

Booking and Reservations

Booking a Milford Sound cruise can be conveniently done through the Southern Discoveries – Milford Sound Visitor Centre, where travelers can select from a range of tour options and timeslots to suit their preferences. Visitors have the flexibility to choose between a scenic cruise, a picnic lunch option, or a buffet experience. The booking process is straightforward, with clear instructions and customer-friendly policies, such as free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. To enhance the experience, hotel pickup and drop-off services are available, and parking can be secured at the designated lot or the nearby Deepwater Basin.

Cruise Options	Duration	Price
Scenic Cruise	1 hour 45 mins	$50
Picnic Cruise	2 hours	$70
Buffet Cruise	2 hours	$80

Frequently Asked Questions

Travelers often inquire about the accessibility and logistics of the Milford Sound cruise, with concerns ranging from the availability of facilities to the ease of transportation. While the cruise isn’t wheelchair accessible, strollers are allowed on board.

Parking is available at the Milford Sound carpark for $10 per hour, or visitors can opt for the free parking at Deepwater Basin, which is a 30-minute walk to the terminal.

The cruise duration is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, with full commentary on the natural features and wildlife.

Complimentary tea and coffee are provided, and an optional lunch can be selected during booking.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and passengers should confirm their country of origin when booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?

Pets are not permitted on the Milford Sound cruise. The cruise operator enforces a strict no-pet policy to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers. Only service animals are allowed on board.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, though complimentary tea and coffee are provided. Bringing a packed lunch or snacks is a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Passengers?

There’s no minimum age requirement for passengers on this cruise. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour and experience the stunning natural beauty of Milford Sound with their families.

Can I Purchase Photos Taken During the Cruise?

Yes, passengers can purchase photos taken during the Milford Sound cruise. Photos are available for purchase onboard or through the tour operator’s website after the tour. Prices and photo packages vary depending on the tour option selected.

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise?

The dress code for the cruise is casual. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and non-slip footwear. There are no formal attire requirements, as the focus is on experiencing the stunning natural scenery of Milford Sound.

Recap

The Milford Sound sightseeing cruise offers a breathtaking journey through the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.

With knowledgeable commentary, spotting of local marine life, and complimentary refreshments, this 1 hour 45 minutes cruise is a delightful adventure.

Travelers can choose between a picnic or buffet lunch, making it a comprehensive experience to fully immerse in the natural beauty of Milford Sound.