Milford Sound Cruise - RealNZ
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Get closer to nature on a Milford Sound Day Cruise with RealNZ. Discover glacier-carved cliffs rising from the ink waters below – when you’re travelling by boat, there’s plenty of time to take it all in before framing up the perfect shot to preserve the moment.
Please note: this service may operate on several different vessels. If you wish to find out more, please contact the supplier directly.
Please check in 30 minutes beforehand. Check in closes 15 minutes before departure, with gates closing 5 mins prior to departure.
Paid Parking - as set by Milford Sound Tourism LTD.
Available options
Cruise aboard the Haven
Milford Sound Cruise: Rooftop beer garden with 360 views, relaxed indoor lounge with cabinet food, barista coffee and a licensed bar on board
Cruise aboard the Mariner
Milford Sound Cruise: A traditional 'scow style' vessel with sails, a photographer's dream
What's included
Landing and facility fees
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Get closer to nature on a Milford Sound Day Cruise with RealNZ. Discover glacier-carved cliffs rising from the ink waters below – when you’re travelling by boat, there’s plenty of time to take it all in before framing up the perfect shot to preserve the moment.
Please check in 30 minutes beforehand. Check in closes 15 minutes before departure, with gates closing 5 mins prior to departure.
What's not included
Parking Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
54 reviews
5★
50
4★
0
3★
1
2★
2
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.7
353 reviews
5★
297
4★
32
3★
8
2★
6
1★
10
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cruise aboard the Milford Haven or Milford Mariner
Restaurant quality food available for purchase
Bring sensible clothing and footwear for cool and wet weather
Travel time: Allow 5-6hrs from Queenstown and 3hrs from Te Anau
Parking fees apply as per the Milford Sound Tourism LTD
Meeting point
Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to check in. In the height of summer, please allow up to an hour to find parking and walk to the terminal. From the paid-parking area, the terminal is a 10 minute walk away.
About Fiordland & Milford Sound
Fiordland is a remote and breathtaking region in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. Known for its dramatic fiords, towering cliffs, and lush rainforests, it offers some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world. Milford Sound, one of the most famous fiords, is a must-visit for its stunning waterfalls and rich marine life.
Top Attractions
Milford Sound
A stunning fiord known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and rich marine life. It's one of the most visited natural attractions in New Zealand.
Nature
2-4 hours for a cruise, longer for hiking
Moderate to expensive for cruises
Routeburn Track
One of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and alpine meadows.
Adventure
2-4 days
Moderate (hut fees apply)
Douglas Island Wildlife Sanctuary
A sanctuary for native wildlife, including rare birds and seals. Accessible by boat from Milford Sound.
Nature
1-2 hours
Included in most Milford Sound cruises
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hangi
Traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven, featuring meats and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat, can be adapted for dietary restrictions
Seafood Chowder
Creamy soup made with locally caught seafood like fish, mussels, and crayfish.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains seafood, may contain dairy
Popular Activities
Hiking
Jet boating
Kayaking
Wildlife tours
Scenic cruises
Photography
Wildlife watching
Māori cultural experiences
Best Time to Visit
December to February (Summer)
This is the warmest and driest time of year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
12°C to 20°C
54°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Māori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12 (Daylight Saving Time: GMT+13)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Fiordland is generally safe, but the remote and rugged terrain requires caution.
Important Precautions:
- • Carry a map and compass for hiking
- • Be prepared for rapidly changing weather
- • Inform someone of your hiking plans
Getting there
By air
- Queenstown Airport • 250 km from Fiordland
By bus
Queenstown, Te Anau
Getting around
Public transport
Buses connect major towns and trailheads but may have limited schedules.
Taxis
Limited
Rentals
Car
Neighborhoods
Te Anau
Milford Sound Village
Day trips
Kepler Track
40 km from Te Anau • 1-3 days
Another of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Dart River Wilderness Jet
100 km from Te Anau • Full day
Jet boat tours through the Dart River and Glenorchy, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting.
Festivals
Fiordland Jazz Festival • February
Pro tips
- Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance, especially during peak season
- Pack layers and waterproof gear; weather can change rapidly
- Fill up your gas tank in Te Anau as stations are scarce in Fiordland
- Carry a map and compass; cell service can be unreliable in remote areas
- Respect the environment and follow Leave No Trace principles
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
