Discover the wildlife and waterfalls of Milford Sound on a nature cruise by purpose-built catamaran. Marvel at the majesty of Mitre Peak, get up-close to Stirling Falls as you cruise both sides of the fjord.

About this activity

Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
Covid-19 precautions: Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
Mobile ticketing: Use your phone or print your voucher
Duration 2 hours: Check availability to see starting times.
Instant confirmation
Live tour guide: English

Highlights

Discover Milford Sound on a 1-hour 45-minute nature cruise for excellent views of scenery and wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins
Feel the full force from the powerful 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls
Enjoy 360-degree views from the top deck of a purpose-built catamaran for panoramic photo opportunities
Choose to add a freshly prepared picnic lunch or bring your own packed lunch
Listen to lively and informative commentary on the fiord’s history, geology, and wildlife from your skipper in the open wheelhouse

Full description

Climb aboard a purpose-built catamaran in Milford Sound Cruise Terminal and set sail across the water to discover the unique wildlife of one of South Island's most picturesque attractions. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee onboard and pre-purchase a picnic lunch when booking. Journey down the south side of the fjord and out into the Tasman Sea, before returning up the north side of the fjord. Listen to fascinating commentary about the region from your skipper in the open wheelhouse and say hello to the native seals basking on the rocks as you pass them by. Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Feel the full force of the powerful 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls. The friendly staff will roam the vessel available to answer your questions on the history, geology, and wildlife of the fiord along the way.

Includes

1 hour 45 minute Milford Sound nature cruise
Complimentary tea and coffee
Picnic lunch, if option selected
Access to top deck for viewing and panoramic photo opportunities
Large viewing windows and covered seating area
Nature commentary

Picnic lunch (unless option selected)

Covid-19 precautions

Safety measures in place

All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds

Traveler requirements

You must bring your own headphones
You are required to bring and wear a mask
All participants who are over 12 years old must present proof of full vaccination

Prepare for the activity

Meeting point

Meeting point varies depending on option booked.

Important information

What to bring

Warm clothing

Know before you go

Always be prepared to enjoy some rainfall during your visit. The landscape is especially dramatic during wet weather as rainfall creates dozens of temporary waterfalls that cascade down the cliff faces, some reaching a thousand meters in height
All vessels are fully licensed with a range of beverages plus a selection of snack foods. Note that smoking is not permitted on any of the vessels
Reservations may be amended to another date or time, subject to space and availability
Timetables, cruise departures, and vessels may vary. In the interest of your safety, the local operator may cancel any cruise at any time due to unsafe weather conditions or boat maintenance
Lunches must be booked at least 24 hours ahead of travel

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 331 reviews

Review summary

Guide
4.5/5
Transportation
4.4/5
Value for money
4.5/5
Safety
4.8/5

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Had a great experience on our cruise. The guides were all very friendly and made the experience even better. The cruise was absolutely beautiful, and although it was very windy and choppy out on the deck it still felt really safe. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting the South Island!!

July 11, 2021

I wanted to tick this off my bucket list for a few years now and I finally got to do it. My husband and I were outside the boat from start to finish, never even saw the inside of the cabin. We were just too in awe of the beauty that is Milford Sounds. Many thanks for making one of my dreams come true.

May 30, 2021

Thoroughly enjoyed the information re what we were viewing. Loved being able to see fault line, get close to the waterfall, view the seal and pod of whales. Would highly recommend front of the boat viewing, but be well and true wrapped up in colder conditions. An incredible feeling, amongst glacial carved hills. Excellent experience.

May 27, 2021

Milford Sound Nature Cruise with Optional Lunch

Milford Sound Nature Cruise with Optional Lunch

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