Discover Milford Sound with the experts. For over 70 years, we've shared our passion for the natural wonders of Milford Sound. Our premium catamarans are purpose-built for uncrowded comfort and unbeatable views.
More space means better memories. Enjoy ample room to roam, inside and out. Get closer to the spray of waterfalls and snap epic photos of Mitre Peak or Stirling Falls from outdoor viewing decks, or relax in the cosy interior cabins.
Immerse yourself in nature, not a crowd. We ensure a premium experience for all. Complimentary tea and coffee plus options to pre-order a picnic lunch or choose the To Kai buffet on selected departures.
Cruise with the original Milford Sound experts and discover the wonders of this unique fiord—all without feeling rushed.
12.45pm Nature Cruise & Lunch
11.15am Nature Cruise & Buffet
10:30am Nature Cruise
3.45pm Nature Cruise only
1:15pm Cruise & Picnic Lunch: 2-hour Milford Sound Nature Cruise with freshly packed Picnic Lunch.
11.15am Nature Cruise only
3.45pm Nature Cruise & Picnic
1.30pm Nature Cruise only
1.30pm Nature Cruise & Buffet
12.45pm Nature Cruise only
10:30am Nature & Picnic: Enjoy a freshly packed Picnic Lunch onboard your Milford Sound Nature Cruise.
11.15am Nature Cruise & Picnic
1hour 45min Milford Sound Nature Cruise with a freshly made Buffet Lunch.
3.15pm Cruise
3.15pm Cruise & Picnic Lunch
1:15pm Nature Cruise: 2-hour Milford Sound Nature Cruise with complimentary Tea & Coffee
1.30pm Nature Cruise & Picnic
Your journey starts here, check in with friendly staff at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
Fiordland National Park is in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for the glacier-carved fiords of Doubtful and Milford sounds. A beech forest trail on the sandy Milford shore offers views of towering Mitre Peak.
Whatever the weather, our newly refurbished vessels offer unbeatable views through full height viewing windows. Make the most of out 360º decks which are perfect for that perfect photo.
Our passionate skippers share their knowledge with lively and entertaining commentary. This is the perfect cruise for single travelers, couples and families with plenty of room to take in the views.
The stunning Lady Bowen Falls is Milford’s highest waterfall. It plunges 162m from a hanging valley into the head of Milford Sound and provides electricity for the Milford Sound township by feeding a small hydroelectric scheme, as well as being the water source for the settlement.
Mitre Peak is a beautifully dramatic mountain in the South Island of New Zealand, located on the shore of Milford Sound. It is one of the most photographed mountain peaks in the entire country.
Nestled behind the world famous Mitre Peak, the Sinbad Gully is characterised by extremely steep glacially carved walls punctuated by near vertical granite cliffs. These walls slowed pest invasion into the gully and as a result a number of unique native species remain in the Sinbad.
Southern Discoveries is passionate about preserving Milford Sound’s beauty for future generations which is why it’s a key partner in a major conservation project – the Sinbad Sanctuary Project.
The aim is to see the valley of New Zealand’s most photographed mountain (Sinbad Gully is at the base of Mitre Peak) become a sanctuary for native species.
Milford’s second-highest waterfall is the Stirling Falls, a staggering 151m in height – three times the height of Niagara Falls, but the 1,300m mountain behind displaces this incredible height. This is the famous waterfall that Hugh Jackman ‘jumped off’ in the movie Wolverine. The sheer drop of the Stirling Falls allows boats to get right underneath – it’s an incredible feeling to have the power of 151m worth of glacial water falling so close to you.
Check in at our Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Visitor Centre, which is clearly visible as soon as you enter the Milford Sound Terminal - Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679.
From December 3 2021, we will be requiring vaccination certificates to be shown prior to joining any Southern Discoveries experience.
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.
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.
One of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and alpine meadows.
A sanctuary for native wildlife, including rare birds and seals. Accessible by boat from Milford Sound.
Traditional Māori meal cooked in an earth oven, featuring meats and vegetables.
Creamy soup made with locally caught seafood like fish, mussels, and crayfish.
This is the warmest and driest time of year, with long daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
GMT+12 (Daylight Saving Time: GMT+13)
230VV, 50HzHz
Fiordland is generally safe, but the remote and rugged terrain requires caution.
Queenstown, Te Anau
Buses connect major towns and trailheads but may have limited schedules.
Limited
Car
Another of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and forests.
Jet boat tours through the Dart River and Glenorchy, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting.
Price varies by option