Milford Sound Nature Cruise and Self-Guided Scenic Track Walk

Fiordland & Milford Sound , New Zealand

Milford Sound Nature Cruise and Self-Guided Scenic Track Walk

Active

(2 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Experience two of Fiordland's most iconic attractions in a single, unforgettable day.

If you select the 9.00am departure: Start with a self-guided walk on the world-famous Milford Track. The gentle 11-km walk to Giant's Gate Falls and back lets you experience the track's magic without committing to the full hike.

Then join our premium Nature Cruise on a spacious catamaran, purpose-built to get you closer to stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and cliff faces. Our expert onboard commentary, available in eight languages via a free app, shares captivating stories about the area's natural history and wildlife.

Walk first with the 9am departure OR Cruise first with the 10.30am departure - both options offer a perfect blend of adventure and comfort in one of New Zealand's most spectacular locations.

Experience the majesty of Milford Sound in two unique ways, all in one day.

Available options

Milford Track + Nature Cruise

Starting point:<br/>Deepwater Basin, Southland Region 9679, New Zealand

Nature Cruise + Walk

Starting point:<br/>Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Visitor Centre, Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand

What's included

Flexibility in timings to start with either the Walk or Nature Cruise first

Access to a self-guided walk on the Milford Track (up to 4 hours) including water taxi

Nature Cruise for up to 2 hours in Milford Sound

Detailed itinerary

If you start with the Walk first you will meet at Deepwater Basin for the Water Taxi with a 10-minute boat journey from Deepwater Basin in Milford Sound to Sandfly Point.

Stop 2

Up to 4hrs on the famous Milford Track. Walk at your own pace, and explore this stunning 11-kilometer return walk self-guided.

This is your check in point for the Nature Cruise portion of your trip. If you walk first your cruise will depart at 3.15pm with check in 15 minutes prior.
If you start with the Nature Cruise your cruise will depart at 10.30am with check in 15 minutes prior.

What's not included

Food can be purchased onboard the cruise for an additional cost

Available languages

Audio guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

The tour duration is a total of 7hrs and 15mins this is made up of transport departing from Deepwater Basin (water taxi) to the start of the walk, 4hrs on the track and some downtime between returning from the Milford Track walk and being able to check in at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal for the Cruise. Alternatively selecting the 10.30am departure will have you cruise first.

Meeting point

For the 10:30am departure, please check in at the Southern Discoveries desk 15 minutes before departure. After your cruise, head to Deepwater Basin Boat Ramp by 12:45pm to meet your track transport for the Milford Track walk portion of your activity.

Important notes

9am Departure = Milford Track first at 9am then Nature Cruise at 3.15pm
Arrive at Deepwater Basin Boat ramp 15 minutes prior. Look out for a Fiordland Outdoors sign near the water’s edge. This is your check in point for the water taxi to the start of the Milford track walk.
After the walk make your way around to the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal and check in at the Southern Discoveries desk for your cruise. Ensure you check in 20 minutes prior to departure.

10.30am Departure = Nature Cruise first at 10.30am then Milford Track from 1pm
Check in at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal at the Southern Discoveries desk for your cruise. Ensure you check in 20 minutes prior to departure.
After your cruise make your way around to Deepwater Basin Boat ramp. Look out for a Fiordland Outdoors sign near the water’s edge. This is your check in point for the water taxi to the start of the Milford track walk. Please note the water taxi will be transferring people back and forth from the track. If it’s not there when you arrive just wait at the sign, it won’t be too far 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