Milford Sound Cruises and Activities

Much of Milford Sound can only be accessed by the water, so hop aboard one of many boat tours and cruises and set sail into breath-taking natural beauty.

Milford Sound is the jewel in South Island's Fiordland crown. The rocky mountain cliffs plunging steeply down to meet the dark waters makes for astonishing scenery - don't forget your camera! Add in the chance to spot penguins, seals, dolphins, whales and no end of native rainforest birds and you have one special experience.

To really make the most of your time at the fiord, why not book an overnight cruise? The sight of the starry night sky above the water is truly unforgettable.

Planning a trip to Milford Sound? We've got all the info you need to create your perfect itinerary:

Image: Tourism Media

Getting to Milford Sound

  • If you love a road trip, the drive to Milford Sound is a spectacular one. It takes around five hours from Queenstown.
  • Alternatively, staying in Te Anau is a great option for those wanting to better take in the scenery. This lake-side town is a popular launchpad into Fiordland's unbelievable landscape, and offers many excellent lodging options.
  • Travel by bus to Milford Sound and you'll be able to give that alpine scenery your full attention without the distraction of driving.
  • Get an amazing bird's-eye view of the fiord with a flight into Milford Sound. You can fly from Queenstown in just 40 minutes or hop on a scenic flight from Te Anau.

Image: Tourism Media

Milford Sound Activities

  • Take a boat tour up to the thundering Bowen Falls, which tumble nearly 200 metres down to the fiord.
  • Take to the water under your own paddle power with some kayaking. It's a peaceful way to explore.
  • If a bird's-eye view is what you're chasing, take a scenic flight over Milford Sound and absorb views of the famous Mitre Peak.
  • Follow the 53km Milford Track, one of New Zealand's most iconic hiking trails, past mountains, valleys and lakes. Crossing the suspension bridge is a real thrill. If you think you're up for the challenge, make sure to do your research! Check out the local government's Milford Track page for more information.
  • Believe it or not, there are even more incredible things to see below the water's surface. You can go diving or visit the underwater observatory at Harrison Cove and check out the rare black coral.

Image: Destination Fiordland

Things to do in surrounding areas

  • Explore the equally impressive Doubtful Sound. Although it is larger, this fiord is less popular than Milford Sound, which ultimately means visitors are greeted with a quiet and jaw-dropping vista, only accessible by boat.
  • Head back to Te Anau and explore the magical Glowworm Caves, an other-worldly underground sight for all ages.
  • Get your adrenaline kicks with a jet boat cruise down the remote Waiau River, taking in not one but three Lord of the Rings locations along the way.

Created in partnership with Destination Fiordland