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Private Charter

Milford Sound Private Charters

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Private Vessel Charter

Luxury Coach Charter

VIP High Tea Experience

Private Vessel Charter

Luxury Coach Charter

VIP High Tea Experience

About

From exclusive vessel hire and luxury coach transport to indulgent VIP high tea, tailor a bespoke journey through one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes—perfect for special events, group travel, or unforgettable celebrations

A longer, in-depth Milford Sound experience
Our nature guides will provide informative and entertaining live commentary
Outdoor decks and comfortable indoor lounge decks, perfect for Milford Sound in any weather
Private fully customised Milford Sound charter experience
Return private transfers from your accommodation
Private Nature Cruise (up to 2 hrs) aboard a spacious, purpose-built vessel
Access to a private viewing deck or VIP lounge with panoramic window views
Optional VIP High Tea or gourmet platter served onboard during your cruise
Seamless combination of air, land and water exploration in complete comfort
Ideal for celebrating milestones, hosting premium events, or impressing clients
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.

Varies

Private decks for closer viewing

Enjoy afternoon teas amongst the stunning sounds

Experience luxury travel on your journey to Milford

Relax and take in the stunning scenery

Immerse yourself in nature

Map

Coach

Cruise

Fly

Lunch

High Tea

Experience a refined high tea featuring a variety of savoury and sweet treats, perfectly paired with fine teas, bubbles, beer, or non-alcoholic beverages. Enjoy a welcoming ambience and charming setting for this spectacular experience.

Cheeseboard

Experience a refined cheese board featuring a curated selection of artisanal cheeses and accompaniments, perfectly paired with bubbles, beer or non-alcoholic beverages.

Transport

from Milford Sound
from Queenstown

Private pick-up

Enjoy a private pick-up and seamless transport to Queenstown Airport, where you will be personally escorted straight to your aircraft for a stress-free, efficient travel experience.

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"Spectacular"

FAQ

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.

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.

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 should I bring on my boat cruise?

Is there a Milford Sound cruise from Te Anau?

Yes, you can book a Milford Sound 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.

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 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 a Te Anau to Milford Sound coach service available?

Yes. Southern Discoveries operates Milford Sound coach and cruise options from Te Anau, as well as self-drive choices. Guests enjoy a relaxed journey through Fiordland with informative guiding along the route.

How long is the full experience from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

Expect a 2–2.5-hour drive each way, followed by a 1.75–2.5-hour cruise depending on the itinerary. This makes Te Anau one of the most convenient bases for Milford Sound travel.

How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound cruise?

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.

How long does it take to drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound?

The drive from Wanaka to Milford Sound takes around 5–6 hours, depending on road conditions and stops. It’s a full-day journey, so allow extra time to enjoy the scenery and plan for rest breaks.

Is it better to stay overnight before a Milford Sound cruise?

Yes, many travellers choose to stay overnight in Te Anau, which is about two hours from Milford Sound. This makes the trip less tiring and ensures you can join your cruise without rushing.

What is the best route to Milford Sound from Wanaka?

The most common route is via Queenstown and then on to Te Anau before continuing to Milford Sound. The road is scenic with many points of interest, but it’s important to check road conditions, especially in winter.

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 weather can I expect in Fiordland?

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.

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