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Day Trips

Coach & Discover More

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from $315.00

Premium return coach journey

Glass-roofed coach for incredible views

Our longest, most immersive Milford Sound cruise

Premium return coach journey

Glass-roofed coach for incredible views

Our longest, most immersive Milford Sound cruise

About

Combine our longest Milford Sound cruise with a relaxing coach journey from Queenstown or Te Anau—enjoy scenic stops, insightful commentary, and an easy, unforgettable day in Fiordland.

Return coach transport from Queenstown or Te Anau—leave your car behind and enjoy the journey
Spectacular glass-roof coaches equipped with WiFi, USB charging ports and comfortable seating with generous legroom
Dedicated Nature Guide accompanying you on the coach and cruise, sharing fascinating stories to make your Milford Sound journey truly special
Easy connection—arrive right at the cruise terminal ready for your Milford Sound experience
Enjoy our longest Milford Sound cruise—up to 2hrs 15 mins and designed to give you time to take it all in
Dedicated onboard Nature Guide with fascinating insights into local wildlife and geology
Get close to the famous waterfalls of Milford Sound—maybe even feel the spray from the outdoor decks
Year-round wildlife viewing—watch for New Zealand fur seals, playful bottlenose dolphins, and, if you're lucky, the rare Fiordland crested penguins
We are a Department of Conservation (DOC) approved mammal viewing operator
Complimentary tea and coffee onboard the cruise
Includes a delicious picnic lunch
Download the free Southern Discoveries app for multilingual commentary on our cruise experiences
Southern Discoveries Ltd wishes to notify our customers about the natural risks and hazards prevalent in Milford Sound, the remote location where our operations are situated. Detailed information of these risks and hazards can be found here.

from $315.00

Up to 13 hrs 30 mins

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Scenic Coach Journey Through New Zealand's Finest Landscapes

Listen to our multilingual commentary on our free app

Extended Fiord Exploration with Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Photo stops a plenty

Enjoy waterfalls and spectacular scenery

Map

Coach

Cruise

Lunch

Picnic Lunch

Our picnic lunches are freshly prepared daily and include:

Sandwich with selected meat and salad for standard option, Salami, Cheese & crackers, Seasonal fresh fruit, Crisps, Cookie & a small Chocolate bar. (Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten-free available)

Please note we do not include a drink with your packed lunch as we are trying to reduce the use of singe use plastic so please remember to take your water bottle with you.

Transport

from Te Anau
from Queenstown

Coach

Premium glass-roof coach departs Te Anau for the most in-depth day trip experience. Expert coach drivers provide time for photo stops and short walks along the Milford road journey.

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Coach

Premium glass-roof coach departs Te Anau for the most in-depth day trip experience. Expert coach drivers provide time for photo stops and short walks along the Milford road journey.

Book Now

"Breathtaking"

Trip Advisor reviews

Excellent cruise and staff! Great Experience! Breathtaking Amazing trip along Milford Sound Best tourist experience ever! Awesome day on the water! Epic Adventure! Highlight of our holiday

FAQ

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.

More FAQ's

Get in touch

in New Zealand

0800 264 536

Overseas

+64 3 441 1137

reservations@southerndiscoveries.co.nz reservations@southerndiscoveries.co.nz