Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Queenstown , New Zealand

Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Active

(525 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

You are guaranteed a window seat with unimpaired views as you fly this incredible route to and from Milford Sound through a landscape of unbelievable grandeur and beauty. Encounter real mountain flying and marvel at the most remarkable snow-capped mountains and glaciers onboard our fixed-wing aircraft. Your knowledgeable, highly skilled local pilot providing interesting and informative commentary. Flying across the Southern Alps, out to the West Coast and the Tasman Sea before flying through the Fiord itself to land in Milford Sound.
Once in Milford, your pilot will accompany you to the boat terminal. Discover the natural wonders of Milford Sound aboard your cruise vessel with open-air viewing decks, a perfect location for some wildlife spotting. The Fiord is home to fur seal colonies, penguins, and dolphins, who love playing in the wake of the boat. You will cruise the length of the Fiord out to the Tasman Sea with a pass under Sterling Falls on the return.

Available options

Fly | Cruise | Fly

What's included

Complimentary Tea and Coffee provided during your cruise

Your knowledgeable, highly skilled local pilot will provide interesting and informative commentary

Child/booster seats available on request, baby earmuffs also provided

Departures from Queenstown Airport

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Once in Milford Sound, your pilot will accompany you from the airport to the boat terminal. Everything is organised for you, you don't have to worry about a thing!

Step on board your cruise lasting at least 1hr 45mins, you will travel the length of the Fiord and out to the Tasman Sea. Stopping at waterfalls and points of interest along the way, if you're lucky you'll also get to experience the local wildlife - the dolphins love playing in the wake of the boat!

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Lunch (available to purchase)

Closest parking to our check-in and costs a maximum of $20 for the day

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

95 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

430 reviews

5★

423

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A minimum of 2 people are required to confirm a flight

Meeting point

Check-in time is 30 minutes prior to departure at our desk inside the main building. Queenstown Airport Terminal Parking A is the closest parking to our check-in. For the closest free on-street parking please head to Douglas Street or McBride Street.

Important notes

Thank you very much for booking with Glenorchy Air!

We are pleased to confirm your Fly | Cruise | Fly trip to Milford Sound.

Please call us on +64 3 442 2207 / 0800 676 264 1 hour before your scheduled flight time on the day of your flight for a weather check.

Pickups start 50 minutes before departure or Check-in at Queenstown Airport main terminal building 30 minutes prior.

Please let us know if your pick-up location changes as well as your contact number if you do move over to a local sim.

We are looking forward to having you fly with us!

Thanks,

The Glenorchy Air Team

About Queenstown

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities. This vibrant town offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both excitement and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Queenstown Garden

Queenstown Garden is a beautiful public garden located in the heart of the city. It offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Skyline Queenstown

Skyline Queenstown offers a range of activities, including the Skyline Gondola, Luge rides, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city and lake.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate to Expensive

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement

Arrowtown Chinese Settlement is a historic site that showcases the lives of Chinese miners during the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Lamb

New Zealand lamb is renowned for its tender texture and rich flavor. It's often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.

Main Course Contains meat

Green-Lipped Mussels

Green-lipped mussels are a delicacy in New Zealand, known for their unique flavor and texture. They're often served steamed with garlic, wine, and herbs.

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Pavlova

Pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand, made with a crisp meringue shell, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy

Popular Activities

Bungee jumping Skydiving Jet boating Hiking Mountain biking Spa treatments Wine tasting Scenic cruises

Best Time to Visit

December to February (Summer)

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities. It's ideal for hiking, water sports, and exploring the great outdoors.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Queenstown is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas. Exercise caution when engaging in adventure activities and be aware of the weather conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid carrying large amounts of cash

Getting there

By air

Queenstown Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Queenstown Bus Interchange

Getting around

Public transport

Orion buses provide reliable and affordable transportation throughout Queenstown and to nearby attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi apps

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Queenstown Frankton Arrowtown

Day trips

Milford Sound

120 km from Queenstown • Full day

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife. A day trip to Milford Sound includes a scenic drive and a boat cruise through the fjord.

Glenorchy

45 km from Queenstown • Half day to Full day

Glenorchy is a charming village nestled at the head of Lake Wakatipu, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It's a great base for hiking, horse riding, and other outdoor activities.

Wanaka

65 km from Queenstown • Full day

Wanaka is a picturesque town known for its stunning lake and mountain views, as well as its vibrant arts and culture scene. It's a great destination for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Festivals

Queenstown Winter Festival • June Gibbston Valley Winter Festival • July Arrowtown Autumn Festival • April

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Book accommodations, tours, and transportation in advance, especially during peak season.
Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Try local specialties like lamb, green-lipped mussels, and pavlova.
Explore beyond the city center and visit nearby attractions like Arrowtown and Glenorchy.