Milford Sound :
Milford Discovery Centre & Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

New Zealand’s only floating underwater observatory is a unique, interactive learning experience.

Refurbished and re-launched in January 2010 with striking new information panels, the Centre’s where you delve into the natural history, geology and environment of Milford Sound, deepen your understanding of fiord formation, intrepid Maori explorers and early European tourism.

Engage with the history and hardships of those who built the Milford Road and Homer Tunnel, and the struggles of Milford’s first settlers. Find out more about our Sinbad Sanctuary project – how Southern Discoveries is working to preserve and enhance our environment for generations to come and other environmental initiatives underway in the fiord.

Then descend 10m underwater into a spacious viewing chamber with uninterrupted 360-degree views of a rich marine ecosystem unparalleled anywhere else in the world.

It’s a world of primeval creatures and exotic habitats, including rare Black Coral.

Due to its unique underwater environment, Milford Sound is home to species of Black Coral usually found at depths of 500m or more, including magnificent 300-year-old coral ‘trees’.

How to get there

Southern Discoveries, Real Journeys, Cruize Milford and Mitre Peak Cruises all visit the Milford Discovery Centre and Milford Deep. Please allow an additional ½ - 1 hour for your visit.

Why Milford Discovery Centre?

1. New Zealand’s only floating underwater observatory
2. Discover the whole Milford story
3. View sea life usually only seen by divers
4. Marvel at the colours and variety of life in this marine ecosystem
5. Learn about our culture, heritage and lives in Milford

Important information

• Book your Milford Discovery Centre trip here.
• Check out our cruises - the Discover More Cruise, Scenic Cruise or Encounter Nature Cruise.
• Check out our Winter Cruise and Summer Cruise schedules.
• Check out the transport options to Milford Sound.