Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Tour from Te Anau
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join talented and knowledgeable guides on a journey along one of New Zealand's most scenic drives. All guides have unique and insightful stories to share, and spill the secrets of their beautiful backyard as you travel through lush rainforest, glacier carved valleys, alpine lookouts and much more. Enjoy spectacular short walks and incredible photo stops before arriving at the main event, magical Milford Sound.
On arrival at Milford Sound, board a spacious catamaran exploration of the region’s most famous fiord. As the boat travels the length of the fiord to the Tasman Sea, the welcoming crew will share what they know about their place, its wildlife, waterfalls, and fascinating history.
Enjoy complimentary lunch before joining the crew for a dance in the spray off pure glacial melt as the boat noses close to Stirling Falls for a refreshing finale!
Available options
Early Coach & Cruise ex TeAnau
Coach & Cruise Day Tour: Enjoy an informative and uncrowded exploration of Fiordland before the lunchtime rush! <br/>Duration: 8 hours: The tour duration is 7.5 - 8 hours including photo stops in the National Park, and 1 hour 45 minute cruise at Milford Sound. <br/>Lunch: Picnic lunch is included on board the cruise. Options include chicken, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free.<br/>Air Conditioned Tour Coach
Later Coach &Cruise ex Te Anau
Coach & Cruise Day Tour: Allow the crowds to rush ahead, and enjoy an informative and uncrowded exploration of Piopiotahi/Milford Sound.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: The tour duration is 7.5 - 8 hours including photo stops in the National Park, and 1 hour 45 minute cruise at Milford Sound. <br/>Lunch: Picnic lunch is included on board the cruise. Options include chicken, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free.<br/>Air Conditioned Tour Coach
Coach & Cruise Tour from Te Anau
Coach & Cruise Day Tour: Enjoy an all inclusive day tour to Milford Sound, including two hour cruise with lunch.<br/>Duration: 8 hours: The tour duration is 7.5 - 8 hours including photo stops in the National Park, and two hour cruise at Milford Sound. <br/>Lunch: Picnic lunch is included on board the cruise. Options include chicken, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free.<br/>Glass Roof Coach & Catamaran: Enjoy a seamless journey from glass roof coach to glass roof catamaran to make the most of the stunning scenery!
What's included
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Milford Sound Cruise
Coffee and/or Tea
Detailed itinerary
1
The Queenstown coach makes a scheduled stop at Kiwi Country, Te Anau before beginning the exploration of the Fiordland National Park, and it is here that you will meet your driver.
2
Stop 2
Embark on a stunning tour through the National Park to Milford Sound; where the journey is just as spectacular as the destination!
Enjoy insightful and anecdotal storytelling from our experienced driver guides as they share the secrets of their beautiful back yard. Take advantage of the plentiful stops along the way for incredible photo ops and short nature walks through the heart of Fiordland at iconic points such as Elginton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat and Monkey Creek.
3
Step aboard on of our spacious catamarans and enjoy a scenic cruise along spectacular Milford Sound.
Get up close and personal with the fiord's towering mountains, sheer cliffs and hanging valleys as the boat hugs the edges of the fiord throughout the cruise. Feel the spray from the waterfalls that cascade from an ancient rainforest high in the mountains and look out for New Zealand fur seal colonies and occasionally dolphins swimming nearby.
As your cruise meanders past majestic Mitre Peak and as you navigate the length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea, let the scenery transport you back to a time of magical wilderness!
Relax in the comfortable seating, grab a local beer or wine from the bar, soak up the scenery from the sun deck or join the famously friendly crew on the bow as the boat noses close to Stirling Falls for the refreshing finale.
4
Stop 4
The coach returns to Te Anau after the cruise without stopping along the way, giving you time to edit your photos, have a quick nap or just reflect on the cruise of a lifetime!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
20 reviews
5★
13
4★
4
3★
1
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
40 reviews
5★
30
4★
6
3★
1
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please ensure that a car seat or suitable restraint is brought for all passengers 4 years and under travelling on our coach to ensure their safety and safety of others
Piopiotahi Milford Sound is a place of exceptional natural beauty, carved by glaciers and surrounded by towering peaks and lush rainforest. As part of Fiordland National Park, New Zealand’s most remote and rugged region, this incredible environment also brings with it a range of natural hazards. While our team takes every measure to operate safely and keep you informed, it’s important that you are aware of potential risks so you can be prepared and confident during your visit. A full Natural Hazard & Risk Register can be found on the Pure Milford website.
Meeting point
The Kiwi Country / Hollyford Cafe is the pick up point for all travellers on the coach and cruise tour departing from Te Anau. Please meet the driver in the cafe section of the building. They will be wearing Pure Milford uniform.
Important notes
Pick up is from the Kiwi Country / Hollyford Café. Please meet your driver in the café section of the building. They will be wearing Pure Milford uniform.
*Please note the scheduled time is a MEETING time, and not a departure time. Departure time is likely 15 minutes after the meeting time*.
If you have any trouble locating the driver, please call 0800 500 121 / 03 442 4196 and we will gladly assist.
Once on board the coach, the driver will provide a boarding pass for the cruise and take your lunch order.
We recommend bringing cash for the onboard Cafe / Bar as stable connection for credit card transactions is not always reliable.
About Te Anau
Te Anau is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand. It serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park and its stunning fiords, including the famous Milford Sound. The town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and the enchanting glowworm caves.
Top Attractions
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural areas, home to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and numerous hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Nature
Half day to multi-day
Free to enter, but tours and activities have fees
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
These caves are famous for their glowworms, which create a magical, star-like effect on the cave ceilings. The caves are accessible only by guided boat tour and walking tour.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Lake Te Anau
The second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, Lake Te Anau offers stunning views, kayaking, and boat tours. The lake is part of the Fiordland National Park and is surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
Nature
Varies
Free to explore, tours have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
Te Anau is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, trout, and whitebait. Dishes often feature locally sourced ingredients.
Dinner
May contain allergens like shellfish
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Boating
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Photography
Local crafts
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, offering the warmest weather and the most daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the fiords. However, it's also the busiest time of year.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- 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
Te Anau is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should always take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when hiking alone
- • Check weather conditions before outdoor activities
Getting there
By air
- Invercargill Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
- Queenstown Airport • 170 km (105 miles)
By bus
Te Anau Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public transport options are limited in Te Anau. Local shuttle services are available for specific routes and tours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Limited app availability
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Te Anau Town Center
Lakefront Area
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most famous attractions, known for its stunning fiord, waterfalls, and wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers.
Doubtful Sound
150 km (93 miles) • Full day or overnight
Doubtful Sound is a lesser-known but equally stunning fiord, offering a more remote and tranquil experience compared to Milford Sound.
Festivals
Fiordland Jazz Festival • March
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Be prepared for rain and cool temperatures, even in summer
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding area
- Visit the glowworm caves for a magical experience
- Take a boat tour of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for stunning views and wildlife spotting
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
