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Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory: Our most recommended tours and activities

Milford Sound: Cruise, Underwater Observatory, and Lunch

1. Milford Sound: Cruise, Underwater Observatory, and Lunch

Explore the beauty of the fiord on a vessel that’s purpose-built for the best daytime viewing. Set off on a day-trip that includes a delicious lunch, complimentary tea and coffee, and a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. Climb aboard a smaller vessel at the Milford Sound Cruise Terminal to discover more of the fiord on an authentic and insightful experience. Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls and waterfalls. Join the skipper in the open wheelhouse and say hello to the native seals basking on the rocks as you pass them by. A knowledgeable local guide will ensure you discover the wildlife, nature, and history of this remarkable sanctuary. Take a break for a picnic lunch. Choose between a regular, vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free picnic option that includes a wrap, cheese, and crackers, seasonal fresh fruit, crisps, a cookie, and a small chocolate bar. Visit the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory, New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory for an experience unlike any other. Hidden under the surface in Harrison Cove in the middle of Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, the Observatory enables you to experience a different perspective of the fiord. Descend 64 steps (10-metres) underwater into a large, fully air-conditioned viewing area and peer out through large windows at the deep underwater haven. Unlike an aquarium, the fish are free to come and go; it’s the people who are contained.

Te Anau: Milford Sound Bus, Cruise, Observatory, & Lunch

2. Te Anau: Milford Sound Bus, Cruise, Observatory, & Lunch

Set off on a day trip from Te Anau to Milford Sound and enjoy a more intimate and in-depth experience of Milford Sound. Discover the native wildlife, towering waterfalls, and majestic mountains of the fiord on an intimate cruise on a smaller boat. Journey through spectacular landscapes as your experienced, local bus driver provides engaging and informative commentary. Enjoy short walks and photo stops along Milford Road. Arrive at Milford Sound and relax on a nature cruise with a freshly prepared picnic lunch onboard. Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls and up close to Stirling Falls. Your passionate skipper will share their local knowledge with lively and informative commentary. Visit Milford Sound Underwater Observatory along the way. Descend 60 steps down a spiral staircase into a spacious viewing chamber to discover the unique and beautiful environment hidden under the surface of Milford Sound. Cruise back to the Milford Sound Visitor Centre to re-join the bus for the return journey to Te Anau.

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What people are saying about Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

The narration was great and very interesting. As for the place, it was wonderful and inspiring, we would go again in the blink of an eye. The underwater observatory was fascinating and the information about its construction, quite remarkable. The packed lunch was excellent as well!

Excellent service on the cruise, very helpful and informative staff. The underwater observatory guide’s style of delivery was a little difficult to follow but she meant well.

Amazing place, very lucky with the weather but still would have been great, saw a rare yellow crested penguin, seal pups and a dolphin.

Great driver, well organised day. Fantastic boat trip. Recommend this option rather than driving yourself

Wonderful experience, great commentary, great knowledge and overall ab awesome day xx