Free cancellation: Get a full refund of ticket price up to 24 hours in advance
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Cruise with the original Milford Sound operators. Marvel at the incredible scenery onboard a vessel that has been purpose-built for viewing, where you won't miss a thing. Get incredibly close to nature, including the famous Stirling Falls. From the large open-top deck or comfy interior cabins, get ready for an experience you'll never forget.
From: NZ$179.00
Per Person
1 Hours On Request: Confirmed within 48 hours, or fully refunded.
Highlights
Get up close to the thundering 155-metre Stirling Falls
Spot fur seals, dolphins, and penguins in the wild
Our passionate skippers bring Milford Sound to life with expert live commentary throughout
Soak it all in from our open-top deck or through full-height cabin windows with unobstructed views
Cruise with the original Milford Sound operator — over 70 years of experience
Full Description
Milford Sound is one of the world's great natural wonders — and there's no better way to experience it than from the water. As the original Milford Sound cruise operator with over 70 years on these waters, Southern Discoveries knows this fiord better than anyone.
Cruise deep into the heart of Piopiotahi Milford Sound for up to 2 hours aboard a spacious, purpose-built vessel. Get closer than you ever thought possible to the thundering 155-metre Stirling Falls, scan the rocks for sunbathing fur seals, and keep your eyes on the water for dolphins and penguins as towering glacier-carved cliffs rise around you.
Whether you're rugg...
Cruise deep into the heart of Piopiotahi Milford Sound for up to 2 hours aboard a spacious, purpose-built vessel. Get closer than you ever thought possible to the thundering 155-metre Stirling Falls, scan the rocks for sunbathing fur seals, and keep your eyes on the water for dolphins and penguins as towering glacier-carved cliffs rise around you.
Whether you're rugg...
Includes
What's included
- FREE Tea & Coffee
Meeting Point
Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Visitor Centre. Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679
Cancellation policy
Full refund if cancelled up to 24 hours before activity starts.
There is a minimum number of travellers for this experience. If the minimum isn't met and we need to cancel, we will offer a different date/experience or a full refund.
Terms
SDL reserves the right to amend timetables, cancel cruise departures and substitute vessels at any time for safety or operational reasons including due to unsafe weather conditions or vessel maintenance. Products are non-refundable within 24 hours of travel.
From
NZ$179.00
Per Person
1 Hours On Request: Confirmed within 48 hours, or fully refunded.
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Milford Sound, New Zealand, 9679
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
11:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | Summer
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
10:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | Year RoundMilford Sound Nature Cruise
12:45 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | SummerMilford Sound Nature Cruise
1:30 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | Year RoundMilford Sound Nature Cruise
3:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | SummerMilford Sound Nature Cruise
1:15 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | Year RoundMilford Sound Nature Cruise
3:45 Milford Sound Nature Cruise | Up to 2hrs | Summer
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you provide disabled/wheelchair access?
The two vessels in Milford Sound with wheelchair access are the 'Pride of Milford' and 'Spirit of Milford' where access to the vessel is by ramp. Disabled toilet facilities are in the Visitor Terminal where all cruises depart from.
Do all boat trips take the same route?
Every cruise goes the full length of the fiord - subject to weather. Cruises stop in different places but each trip visits the major sights of interest including Stirling Falls and Harrison Cove.
What should I bring on my boat cruise?
Due to the changeable nature of the weather, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and to wear comfortable shoes. We also have ponchos available for purchase so you can enjoy a glacial facial under Stirling Falls.
Where does the cruise depart from?
The Nature Cruise departs from and returns to the wharf at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal.
Will the cruise go ahead if the weather is bad?
Yes – in fact, rain makes Milford Sound even more spectacular, with hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascading down the cliffs. Our operations team assesses conditions before every departure to ensure guest safety and comfort.
Will I see wildlife?
It's very likely! NZ fur seals are spotted on almost every cruise, dolphins are frequently seen swimming alongside the vessel, and Fiordland Crested Penguins (Tawaki) visit during breeding (Aug–Nov) and moulting (Mar/Apr) seasons. Sightings aren't guaranteed, but the chances are excellent.
Is the cruise suitable for families?
Absolutely. All ages are welcome and the Nature Cruise is a great experience for kids, with wildlife spotting, waterfall views, and onboard commentary.
Is there parking at Milford Sound?
Yes, there is paid car parking at the Milford Sound public car park. We advise getting there early as the car park does fill quickly in summer months. Parking is $10 per hour. Allow 10 - 15 minutes to walk to the Milford Sound Cruise Terminal.
Alternatively, there is free parking at Deep Water Basin with a complimentary shuttle. If you take the free shuttle, we recommend allowing up to an hour, as it doesn’t run on a fixed schedule. Alternatively, it’s about a 45-minute walk from Deep Water Basin to the cruise terminal.
Are food and drinks available on board?
Food and drinks available onboard. We offer a To Kai buffet or picnic lunch. Buffet includes meats, salads and seasonal vegetables and picnic includes sandwich, snacks and fruit. Dietary requirements catered for on request.
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