Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown
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Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown

Active
(42 reviews)
13h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The limited passenger numbers on our modern Mercedes Sprinter Vans make for a much more personal experience. It also allows us to stop more often for photos and short walks than the big 50-seater coaches (up to 12 stops along the way). We connect with Milford Sound's only boutique small boat cruise. Passenger numbers on the cruise are limited to 50% of the boats capacity.

Available options

Cruise Milford Small Group Day Tour from Queenstown

Pickup included

What's included

Boutique Small Boat Cruise at Milford Sound
a packed lunch is included, please advise us of any allergies or dietary requirements you may have

Detailed itinerary

1

Please choose one of the pickup locations listed

2
Stop 2

For the first 30min of the drive we will travel on the Devil's Staircase along the shores of Lake Wakatipu. We will stop for 10min to give you the opportunity to take a photo of this beautiful area.

3

Photo Stop

4
Stop 4

After more amazing mountain, river and farmland views we arrive in Te Anau, home to Lake Te Anau, New Zealand’s second largest lake. While in this idyllic town we will stop for a break and maybe meet some of the local animals or wildlife. Continuing along the lake we stop at Te Anau Downs, the starting point for the Milford Track, to hear the stories and admire the views.

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Continuing along the lake we stop at Te Anau Downs, the starting point for the Milford Track, to hear the stories and admire the views.

6
Stop 6

Leaving Te Anau and entering Fiordland National Park we stop in Eglinton Valley. With views worthy of Lord of the Rings, this valley follows the path of an ancient glacier through Fiordland. One of the first major attractions as you enter the park, it really sets the scene for a journey that only get more impressive the deeper you get.

7
Stop 7

Our next stop on this epic adventure is Mirror Lakes for a short stroll to see the famous reflections of the Earl Mountains. Get the right day, take a good picture and no one with be able to tell which way is the right way up for the photo.

8
Stop 8

Continuing along the Milford Road we come across Lake Gunn. Named after a famous explorer and popular for fishing, often we will stop at Lake Gunn for some photos and to enjoy the peace.

9

Climbing in altitude we go deeper into the Darran Mountains and these views require another stop to admire and take photos. We are also entering the area where Kea (the world’s largest alpine parrot) like to live. Start keeping an eye out for these large, cheeky and colourful birds that never fail to thrill and entertain when found.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

The Homer Tunnel is a 1.2 km (0.75 miles) long road tunnel in the Fiordland region of the South Island of New Zealand, opened in 1953. New Zealand State Highway 94 passes through the tunnel, linking Milford Sound to Te Anau and Queenstown, by piercing the Darran Mountains at the Homer Saddle.[1] It connects between the valley of the Hollyford River to the east and that of the Cleddau to the west.

11

Following the valleys to the sea we arrive at Milford Sound where you will board your Boutique Small Boat Cruise (the No. 1 Cruise operator in Milford Sound on TripAdvisor). The cruise has a duration of 1hr 45min and offers complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits

12
Stop 12

Explore Milford Sound

13

We will stop in Te Anau on the way home for 30min. Restrooms and food available at this stop.

14

Sadly we must start to head back to Queenstown but your day is not over with a fully guided return trip and many stops and breaks along the way.

15

After the cruise on the way back we pull over to admire the elevated amazing views of the divide in the Southern Alps, close to the start of the Routeburn Track. While here the guide will tell you the stories of ancient Maori explorers.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
0
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0
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1★
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Tripadvisor 5.0
37 reviews
5★
36
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Besides the hotels on the list we also pick up from the Frankton Bus Shelter. Please call us on +64 3 398 6112 at least 24hrs before your tour departs to confirm your pickup location and time with us.

Important notes

Please call us on +64 3 398 6112 at least 24hrs prior to your departure to confirm your pickup location and correct pickup time.

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 15-99
1
Childs
Age 5-14
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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