Do you provide disabled/wheelchair access?
The two vessels in Milford Sound with wheelchair access are the 'Pride of Milford' and 'Spirit of Milford' where access to the vessel is by ramp. Disabled toilet facilities are in the Visitor Terminal where all cruises depart from.
Where does the Milford Sound day cruise leave from?
Our nature cruise leaves from and returns to the wharf at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal.
Do you operate on Christmas Day?
All day trips from Queenstown and Te Anau operate on different schedules. Please refer to the individual trip for dates and times. Most Queenstown to Milford Sound experiences operate on Christmas day, but are subject to schedule updates and weather.
Will I see wildlife?
Milford Sound has an abundance of wildlife and is home to New Zealand fur seals and bottlenose dolphins year-round. Rare Dusky dolphins are known to visit the fiord and the world’s rarest penguin, the Fiordland Crested Penguin/Tawaki visits Milford during breeding season (August - November) and moulting season (March/April). While there is wildlife here, we can’t guarantee sightings as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.
Do you provide disabled/wheelchair access?
We have two vessels in Milford Sound with wheelchair access which are the 'Pride of Milford' and 'Spirit of Milford' where access to the vessel is by ramp. Disabled toilet facilities are in the Visitor Terminal where all cruises depart from.
Will the cruise go ahead if the weather is bad?
Our operations team assesses the weather and conditions for every cruise departure to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests. If weather or other events could impact on the safety and comfort of our guests, then the cruise could be postponed, or in some unusual and infrequent circumstances, the cruise could be cancelled.
What should I bring on my boat cruise?
Due to the changeable nature of the weather, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and to wear comfortable shoes. We also have ponchos available for purchase so you can enjoy a glacial facial under Stirling Falls.
Is there somewhere to get a coffee or snack in Milford?
Yes, Discover Milford Sound Information Centre & Cafe is the perfect place to grab a coffee or a hot snack before or after your cruise. It's located beside the main carpark and is a short 15-minute walk to the Visitor Terminal.
Is there parking in Milford Sound?
Yes, there is paid car parking at the Milford Sound public car park. We advise getting there early as the car park does fill quickly in summer months. Parking is $10 per hour. Allow 10 - 15 minutes to walk to the Milford Sound Cruise Terminal.
Alternatively, there is free parking at Deep Water Basin with a complimentary shuttle. If you take the free shuttle, we recommend allowing up to an hour, as it doesn’t run on a fixed schedule. Alternatively, it’s about a 45-minute walk from Deep Water Basin to the cruise terminal.
Are there sandflies?
Yes, there are sandflies. To avoid being bitten, bring mosquito spray with you and wear long-sleeve clothing and trousers. Mosquito spray is available for purchase from the Cafe & Information Centre.
Do you have a webcam in Milford Sound?
Yes, you can view how the weather and day looks. Check out
our webcam here.
How long does it take to drive from Queenstown to a Milford Sound cruise?
It typically takes around 5 hours to drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Please allow extra time for road works and the Homer Tunnel traffic lights.
How long does it take to drive to a Milford Sound cruise from Te Anau?
We advise to allow 2.5 hours to drive from Te Anau to a Milford Sound cruise. There are various scenic stops along the way so we recommend allowing plenty of time.
Where is your desk?
Inside the Visitor Terminal. Once inside turn right and you will see the Southern Discoveries front desk.
What is Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is a spectacular fiord carved by ancient glaciers. It features towering peaks, lush rainforests, and dramatic waterfalls, making it one of the most iconic natural attractions in New Zealand.
Where is Milford Sound located?
Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi, is located in Fiordland National Park in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It lies between the Tasman Sea and the dramatic Southern Alps.
What is Milford Sound famous for?
Of the New Zealand fjords, Milford Sound is the most stunning. It’s famous for its sheer cliffs, Stirling Falls, Mitre Peak, wildlife like seals and dolphins, and its unmatched natural beauty in all weather.
Is Milford Sound a wonder of the world?
While not officially listed among the traditional Seven Wonders, Rudyard Kipling once called Milford Sound the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ for its breathtaking scenery.
How was Milford Sound formed?
Milford Sound was carved by glaciers during the Ice Age, which is why it's a fiord with steep rock walls and deep waters.
What region is Milford Sound in?
Milford Sound is in the Fiordland region, which is part of the Southland District in the southwest corner of New Zealand's South Island.
How big is Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is approximately 16 kilometres (10 miles) long and up to 400 metres (1,312 feet) deep. The fiord stretches from the Tasman Sea inland to the head of the sound, surrounded by steep cliffs and dramatic peaks like Mitre Peak, which rises 1,692 metres (5,551 feet) from the water’s edge.
Who named Milford Sound?
Milford Sound was named by Captain John Grono, a Welsh sealer who visited the area in the early 19th century. He named it Milford Haven after his hometown in Wales. Over time, the name evolved into Milford Sound. Despite the name, it is technically a fiord, not a sound.
Before European arrival, Māori had long explored and named the area Piopiotahi, in honour of the now-extinct piopio bird. The fiord also holds deep cultural significance for Māori, being a source of pounamu (greenstone) and rich in legends and stories.
Where is Milford Sound in New Zealand?
Milford Sound is in the Fiordland region of the South Island, within the UNESCO-listed Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area.
Is Milford Sound a fiord or a sound?
Despite its name, Milford Sound is a fiord, not a sound. It was misnamed by early explorers. A sound is formed by river erosion, while Milford Sound was carved by glacial activity.
Why is Milford Sound called a sound?
It was named by early European explorers who didn’t realise it was formed by glaciers. The name stuck, although it's geologically a fiord.
How much rain does Milford Sound get?
Milford Sound receives an average of around 7 metres (about 275 inches) of rainfall per year. In peak rain conditions, up to 250 millimetres (10 inches) can fall in a single 24-hour period.
How many waterfalls are in Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is home to both permanent and temporary waterfalls. There are two famous permanent waterfalls: Stirling Falls (151 metres/495 ft tall), and Lady Bowen Falls (162 metres / 531 ft tall).
After heavy rain, hundreds of temporary waterfalls cascade down the sheer rock faces. These can appear within minutes of rainfall and disappear just as quickly when the sun comes out. So while the number varies depending on weather, you can often see dozens, even hundreds, of waterfalls throughout the fiord on a rainy day.
Can you drive to Milford Sound?
Yes, you can drive to Milford Sound via the scenic Milford Road (State Highway 94) from Te Anau. It's a narrow, winding alpine road with stunning stops along the way. We also offer convenient coach tours or spectacular scenic flights to get there, so you can take in the sights.
How to get to Milford Sound from Queenstown?
You can get to Milford Sound from Queenstown by coach, car, or scenic flight. The drive takes about five hours each way. Our coach tours are popular for stress-free travel with scenic stops along the way.
How far is Milford Sound from Queenstown?
Milford Sound is approximately 288km (179 miles) from Queenstown by road. The drive typically takes around 5 hours, depending on conditions.
How to get to Milford Sound from Christchurch?
From Christchurch, the fastest way is to fly to Queenstown or Te Anau, then drive or join a coach tour. Driving the full route takes about 9–10 hours over 750 km.
How far from Wanaka to Milford Sound?
The distance from Wanaka to Milford Sound is around 350 km, with a travel time of 6 to 7 hours by road. Expect alpine roads and stunning scenery.
How many km from Dunedin to Milford Sound?
It’s about 410 km (255 miles) from Dunedin to Milford Sound by road, typically a 7.5 to 8.5-hour drive depending on stops and road conditions.
How deep is Milford Sound?
Milford Sound reaches depths of up to 400 metres (1,312 feet), making it one of the deepest fiords in New Zealand.
What to do in Milford Sound?
Top things to do include a Milford Sound nature cruise, hiking nearby tracks, scenic flights and wildlife spotting.
How to explore Milford Sound?
You can explore by day cruise, hike, or take a flightseeing tour. Most visitors opt for a Milford Sound day cruise for the best views of the waterfalls and cliffs.
Where to stay in Milford Sound?
The only accommodation in the fiord is the Milford Sound Lodge, offering eco-lux chalets and campervan sites. Most visitors stay in Te Anau, just two hours away.
Where to eat in Milford Sound?
Dining options are limited due to its remoteness. The Milford Sound, PioPiotahi Cafe or the Pio Pio Restaurant at the Milford Lodge offer food and coffee before or after your tour.
What weather can I expect in Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is one of the wettest places in the world, with an impressive annual rainfall of around 7 metres. During peak rains, up to 250 millimeters can fall within 24 hours, creating countless temporary waterfalls that spill dramatically down the cliffs, some reaching heights of up to a thousand meters, along with many permanent waterfalls.
This abundance of rain is what makes the waterfalls and lush rainforest here so spectacular. Temperatures vary by season, with summer (Dec – Feb) averaging highs of 19°C (66°F) and winter (Jun – Aug) averaging around 9°C (48°F). Our vessels offer spacious indoor areas with comfortable seating, allowing you to enjoy the scenery in any weather.
Is it worth going to Milford/Doubtful Sounds on a wet day?
Milford Sound is the wettest place in New Zealand and one of the wettest places in the world! Many visitors are shocked to know that this true world wonder actually measures its rainfall in metres (and not millimetres like most of the world.) In fact, in 2016 Milford Sound received over nine metres of rain! Doubtful Sound is also rainy with an average of 3-6 metres of rain per year. Both fiords are magnificent to visit in rainy weather due to the significant amount of waterfalls. The fiords come alive with water streaming down sheer cliffs - a magical sight not to be missed.
How likely are we to see wildlife in Milford Sound?
Although we cannot guarantee wildlife viewing, it is very likely that you will see the New Zealand fur seal, and likely more than just one or two! Dolphins are often sighted swimming alongside cruise vessels. Two species of penguins make the Sound their home at various times throughout the year. Little blue penguins and the Fiordland crested penguin - known at the Tawaki. Often hard to find and see, it is always a delight to spot them when we do.
How long does it take to travel to Milford Sound?
It takes approximately five hours to get to Milford from Queenstown depending on the time of year and road conditions. It takes approximately two hours to get to the Sound from Te Anau. You can drive a car or campervan or take a coach tour. We always recommend allowing plenty of time to get to Milford as the journey there is as spectacular as the cruise itself.
Where does the Milford Sound day cruise leave from?
Our nature cruise leaves from and returns to the wharf at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal.
Do all boat trips take the same route?
Every cruise goes the full length of the fiord - subject to weather. Cruises stop in different places but each trip visits the major sights of interest including Stirling Falls and Harrison Cove.
What cruise is best for wildlife viewing?
Every cruise provides the opportunity to view wildlife, but we cannot guarantee sightings. Our Nature Cruise includes plenty of stops for viewing the amazing geology and occasional wildlife, our skipper and friendly boat hosts will be sure to point out any wildlife.
Do your lunches have vegetarian options?
Yes, picnic lunches can be ordered as vegetarian or vegan. You can select this when booking online.
Which cruise is best for kids?
All cruises are suitable for children.
What should I bring on my boat cruise?
Due to the changeable nature of the weather, it’s a good idea to bring a waterproof jacket, warm clothing and to wear comfortable shoes. We also have ponchos available for purchase so you can enjoy a glacial facial under Stirling Falls.
What is included in the buffet lunch?
Our To Kai lunch includes a range of meats, salads and seasonal vegetables with hot and cold options available. We can cater to most dietary requirements - please note this on your booking. All our meat is certified halal.
What is included in the picnic lunch?
The picnic lunch includes a sandwich with chicken and salad, cheese and crackers, seasonal fresh fruit, crisps, a cookie and a small chocolate bar. We can cater to most dietary requirements – please note this on your booking.
What does a Milford Sound boat tour include?
Each cruise includes close-up views of waterfalls, cliffs, and native wildlife like dolphins and seals. Our boats have full-height windows, open-top viewing decks, and knowledgeable guides to enrich the experience.
Can I do a Milford Sound day trip with a cruise?
Yes, a day trip is one of the most popular ways to experience the fiord. Packages often include coach transport from Queenstown or Te Anau and a cruise with optional lunch and extras.
Is the Milford Sound cruise suitable for families?
Yes. Our cruise is family-friendly and includes onboard commentary, wildlife spotting, and plenty of comfortable seating options. Kids love the up-close views of waterfalls and dolphins.
Are Milford Sound boat trips suitable in all weather?
Yes. In fact, boat trips in Milford Sound are often even more dramatic in the rain, when hundreds of temporary waterfalls appear down the cliffs. All vessels have indoor seating to ensure comfort year-round.
Do you offer a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown?
Do you offer a Milford Sound cruise from Queenstown?
No, our Milford Sound cruise doesn't depart from Queenstown but we do offer offer a day trip option that includes coach transfers with informative commentary. It’s a full-day trip that lets you relax and enjoy the stunning scenery en route to Milford Sound.
How does the Queenstown to Milford Sound coach & cruise work?
The Queenstown to Milford Sound coach and cruise includes return coach travel and a nature cruise. The drive takes about 5 hours each way, with stops for short walks and photo opportunities.
Can I book a Milford Sound tour from Queenstown?
Absolutely. A Milford Sound tour from Queenstown typically includes coach travel, a scenic cruise, and optional extras like lunch. It’s a full-day adventure ideal for visitors based in Queenstown or Te Anau.
Is there a Milford Sound coach from Te Anau?
Yes, you can book a Milford Sound coach & cruise from Te Anau with coach transport or self-drive options. The journey is around 2.5 hours and includes spectacular scenery and occasional stops en route.
How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound coach?
The Te Anau to Milford Sound cruise experience includes a 2–2.5-hour drive and a 1.75–2.5-hour cruise, depending on the option you choose. It’s a great choice for travellers seeking a shorter travel day than from Queenstown.
Milford Sound