0:00

Day Trips

Coach, Farm Tour & Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Book Now

from $267.75

Authentic farm experience

Discover Fiordland beyond Milford Sound

Premium coach journey—enjoy the scenery

Authentic farm experience

Discover Fiordland beyond Milford Sound

Premium coach journey—enjoy the scenery

About

A relaxing Fiordland experience with an authentic farm tour in Te Anau, a Milford Sound Nature Cruise, and return coach travel. Leave the car behind—sit back, soak in spectacular scenery, and discover the people and places of one of NZ's most famous destinations.

Comfortable return coach transport from Queenstown or Te Anau—sit back, relax, and leave the driving to us
Total tour activities duration: approximately 13 hours from Queenstown or 9 hours from Te Anau (one-hour farm tour + two-hour Milford Sound Nature Cruise, plus coach journey times)
Glass-roof premium coach featuring spacious seating, glass-roof, driver commentary, USB charging ports, and WiFi
Farm tour in Te Anau includes sheep shearing, dog herding demonstration, friendly farm animals, and delicious Kiwi morning tea
Meet and chat with passionate locals, learning first-hand about life on a working New Zealand farm
Milford Sound Nature Cruise— get incredibly close to the fiord's most famous sites, like Stirling Falls
Spacious cabins offer unobstructed views through full-height windows in interior cabins and open outdoor decks
An experienced, passionate skipper providing entertaining commentary
Chance to see Fiordland's marine wildlife, including seals lazing on rocks, dolphins playing nearby, or even the rare local penguins
Complimentary tea and coffee onboard Milford Sound cruise
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 $267.75

Depart Queenstown up to 13hrs 30mins, Depart Te Anau up to 9hrs

Book now

Premium Coach Travel Through World-Famous Scenic Routes

Feed the Alpacas, sheep, goats and George, the pig

Extended Journey Through Nature's Masterpiece

Wildlife Spotting In Their Protected Natural Habitat

Enjoy a light morning tea at the Farm Shed

Map

Cruise

Coach

Lunch

Choose from our "To Kai" Buffet or Picnic Lunch

"To Kai" Buffet Lunch

“To Kai” means Your Food. Enjoy a Kiwi-style buffet featuring hot and cold dishes and fresh salads, all prepared on board by our chefs using the best local produce.

Picnic Lunch

Our freshly prepared picnic lunches include a sandwich, snacks, fruit and sweet treats, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available. Drinks are not included to help reduce single-use plastics, so please remember to bring your reusable water bottle.

Transport

from Milford Sound
from Queenstown
from Te Anau

Self Drive

Make your own way to Milford Sound and enjoy the spectacular Milford road at your own pace. You will find car parking at two locations in Milford Sound within walking distance of the cruise terminal.

Book Now

Coach

Premium glass-roof coach departs early allowing you to arrive relaxed and ready for your Milford Sound cruise. Expert coach drivers provide time for photo stops and short walks along the Milford road journey.

Book Now

Coach

Book Now

"Just wow!"

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