MILFORD SOUND TOURS
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Set sail on a serene 2-hour Milford Sound cruise aboard one of the 2 modern and spacious catamarans, Maiden of Milford or Gem of the Sound. This journey takes you through one of the most picturesque and wettest landscapes in the world. Here, you'll be mesmerized by cascading waterfalls, majestic cliffs, and lush rainforests. The water here is an exotic shade of inky black which is a combination of river and seawater. Amazingly it is formed such that there are 6 meters of fresh water over ocean water. The convenient habitat built as a result allows deep-sea life to thrive. See iconic landmarks from another angle Your journey spans the vast fiord, passing by landmarks such as Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen, and Stirling Falls. Witness the beauty of Fairy Falls and spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and Fiordland Crested Penguins, all while enjoying a cozy beverage. Whether you're out on the deck or peering through our expansive windows, every view is a spectacle. Our guides will enrich your experience with engaging tales and insights, deepening your connection with these natural marvels.
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If you are a nature history enthusiast looking to experience New Zealand’s landscapes from a different perspective, this premium Milford Sound tour might just be for you. Hop on a comfortable minibus from Queenstown and make your way to Lake Wakatipu where you get an unbeatable view of The Remarkables mountain. Then, you pass through the winding Devils Staircase road before stopping at the idyllic town of Lake Te Anau where you might spot some local wildlife. Be one with nature After Lake Te Anau, move on to Eglinton Valley to see the native beech trees lining the valley and the famous Mirror Lakes famous where you get to see the reflections of the Earl Mountains. You continue on the road to Lake Gunn, home to the South Island robins, tomtits and fantails before moving on Hollyford River, a river full of large boulders and rapids, which feeds into the river at Falls Creek falls. Then, you go deeper into Darren Mountains where you get to spot some colorful birds before winding down the hand-built Homer Tunnel, which leads to Milford Sound. A cruise in New Zealand’s most famous fjord Board a small boat at Milford Sound for a personal tour of Milford Sound. Catch a glimpse of New Zealand’s fur seals sitting on the rocks and waterfalls cascading from an ancient rainforest high in the mountains. This cruise is unbeatable. Get to see the clouds surrounding the triangular Mitre Peak before stopping at Pop's View Lookout where you get a bird’s eye view of the forest-cloaked Hollyford Valley. Then, head back to Queenstown on the minibus with many stops and breaks along the way. Itinerary Start from Queenstown. The following stops will be included on the way to and back from Milford Sound. Minibus Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Devils Staircase Lake Te Anau Eglington Valley Mirror Lakes Lake Gunn Hollyford River & Falls Creek Darran Mountains Homer Tunnel Cruise These are the sights you can look out for during the cruise: Milford Sound Mitre Peak Pop's View Lookout Return to Queenstown
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Begin your day with a hotel pickup in Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand heading to the airport for your scenic flight to Milford Sound. Board a comfortable vehicle that will take you to the airport, where a scenic 1 hour 20 minute flight to Milford Sound awaits. Soar above Milford Sound Departing from the airport, marvel at the South Island's vistas, including Central Otago's rugged peaks and the gleaming Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand's longest lake. Admire the contrasting colors where glacial rivers meet the lake. Your flight takes you over Mt. Aspiring and Fiordland National Parks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, showcasing snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls. Catch a glimpse of the renowned Milford Track, a testament to the area's pristine wilderness. Cruise along the fiord Touch down at Milford Sound, ready for an enchanting cruise through this natural marvel. Cruise 16 kilometers along the fiord to the Tasman Sea, marveling at Milford Sound's splendor, often hailed as the eighth wonder of the world. Witness the towering Mitre Peak and the stunning Bowen and Stirling Falls. At Seal Point, you might catch sight of fur seals. Learn about the area's rich history, geology, and wildlife from your guide while enjoying a complimentary beverage. Keep an eye out for dolphins, penguins, and other marine life as you near the roaring waves of the open sea. Return flight & Queenstown drop-off Post-cruise, head back to the airport for your return flight to Queenstown. Soar over the Southern Alps, the Remarkables, Crown Range, and Shotover River, enjoying a fresh perspective of these magnificent landscapes against the dynamic sky. The day ends with a hotel drop-off in Queenstown, leaving you with a newfound admiration for New Zealand's beauty.
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Embark on a 4-hour drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Witness the transformation of landscapes as you travel through Southland's farmlands and into the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the drive continues, lush rainforests and glacier-carved valleys unfold, offering photo-worthy moments at iconic spots like the Eglinton Valley – a testament to nature's artistry – and Mirror Lakes, which mirrors the majestic Earl Mountains. Milford Sound cruise The highlight of the trip is a 1-hour 45-minute cruise on the Milford Sound aboard the 'Gem of the Sound', the only glass-roof vessel in the fiord. As the vessel nears the Stirling Falls waterfall, brace yourself for a refreshing spray when the bow ventures beneath! You can opt to upgrade to a premium, small group experience with lunch from an onboard café while soaking in views that feel painted just for you. The vessel's spacious decks, large windows, and HD camera footage ensure you don't miss a moment of this surreal view. Return Drive to Queenstown After the cruise, relax on a return drive to Queenstown, reflecting on the day's magnificent sights and experiences.
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Embark on an unforgettable 2-hour cruise through the majestic Milford Sound, where nature's grandeur unfolds before your eyes. As you glide across the tranquil waters, a live commentary will enlighten you about the area's rich history, unique geology, and diverse wildlife. Sip on complimentary tea or coffee as you take in the breathtaking scenery, including towering waterfalls, lush rainforests, and rugged cliffs that seem to touch the sky. With a maximum group size of 75 people, this experience ensures a more personalized and intimate encounter with one of New Zealand's most iconic natural wonders. Upgrade for Milford Track trek For those seeking a more active adventure, the Milford Track walk offers an immersive journey into the heart of Fiordland National Park. Beginning with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point, you'll follow in the footsteps of ancient Maori and early explorers as you meander along the Arthur River and the shores of Lake Ada. Your knowledgeable guide will bring the area to life, sharing insights about the native flora and fauna, as well as the fascinating human history of the track. The highlight of this half-day trek is the awe-inspiring Giant's Gate waterfall, which you can admire from a swing bridge spanning the river. With a maximum group size of 12, this guided walk provides an intimate and enriching experience of the world-renowned Milford Track.
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Begin your adventure in Te Anau, where you'll meet your guide and fellow travelers. Here, you'll board a comfortable, glass-roof coach equipped with free Wi-Fi, setting the stage for a day filled with stunning views and insightful commentary. From Te Anau to Milford Sound As you travel towards Milford Sound, your journey takes you along the edge of Lake Te Anau, entering the breathtaking Fiordland National Park. Witness the transition from beech forests to the Eglinton Valley, a spectacular glacier-carved valley. The drive includes stops at scenic spots like the Mirror Lakes, where, on calm days, the surrounding mountains are mirrored in the water. The route also takes you through the impressive Homer Tunnel, a 1.2km passage through solid rock. Cruise Upon arrival at Milford Sound, board a luxurious vessel for a 2-hour cruise of the sound that Rudyard Kipling once hailed as the eighth wonder of the world. The cruise offers both indoor and outdoor viewing experiences, ensuring you don't miss the majestic sights, including the iconic Mitre Peak. Witness glacier-scarred rock walls, towering waterfalls, and diverse marine life, including seals, penguins, and dolphins. Return to Te Anau After your cruise, relax as you are transported back to Te Anau in a comfortable coach.
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Get away from the hustle and bustle of life for a premium cruise to Milford Sound. Your cruise starts with a warm welcome and a glass of Mumm champagne. Take your seat and enjoy uninterrupted views on the vessel’s spacious deck. With an expert nature guide on board, learn about the history and geology of the fjord. You can put your camera to good use as you can take pictures of the powerful and cascading Bowen Falls or the unique Lion Rock. Get a taste of fiordland cuisine as you munch on specially curated canapes made from local produce. A peek into Milford’s wildlife With experienced skippers on board, you will get to experience the cool spray of a waterfall as you move close to sheer rock faces. You may catch sight of some dolphins, the Fiordland crested penguins, or the New Zealand fur seal relaxing on a rock. With just a small group on board, you can experience the “eighth wonder of the world” more personally. You can also upgrade your experience to include round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau, making this experience more relaxed and memorable.
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There's no better way to get up close to pristine natural beauty than a Milford Sound adventure. This journey through Fiordland does that and much more. Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise along the iconic Sound, fondly nicknamed the Eighth Wonder of the World for its beauty. Surrounded by lush rainforests, jagged peaks, and powerful waterfalls, you'll want to get even closer. And you can! Take a 1-hour kayaking trip with a specialist guide. It doesn't matter if you've never done this before, Milford Sound is the perfect way to break in those kayaking skills. Reach out and touch the crystal-clear waters of Harrison Cove, home to colorful fish, eels, stingrays, and more. Explore the underwater world Your adventure doesn't end there. Say you want to be enveloped by nature even more! Your cruise ends with a trip to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. Here, you'll discover the fascinating phenomenon of "deep water emergence." A layer of fresh water, tinted golden-brown by beech forests, acts as a natural light filter, allowing deep-sea corals, like the vibrant red and black varieties, to flourish in shallower waters. Don’t forget to chat with friendly staff to learn more about the region's rich history and ecology. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch prepared fresh onboard. Refreshing tea and coffee are complimentary, and additional beverages are available for purchase at the bar.
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Board the Milford Sound cruise and witness the natural splendor described by Rudyard Kipling as the 'eighth wonder of the world' aboard a small cruise boat. While navigating the entirety of this scenic fjord, you'll be awestruck by the sight and sound of waterfalls, the beauty of lush rainforests, and peaks as high as your eyes can see. Accompanied by entertaining live commentary, you'll unravel the rich ecological diversity, geological history, and intriguing Maori legends associated with the Sound. Subaquatic splendor The journey becomes even more enchanting with a visit to New Zealand's only underwater observatory, a floating marvel that allows you to descend 10 meters below the surface. Witness rare black coral, usually found at depths of over 500 meters, and a vibrant aquatic life that calls this fiord home. Keep an eye out for frolicking seals, playful dolphins, or the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin, making this the longest and most unique cruise in Milford Sound. The boat is equipped with outdoor decks for panoramic views and a cozy indoor lounge, perfect for enjoying the cruise in any weather. So, come aboard and let the Milford Sound Cruise take you through an unforgettable journey of a lifetime.
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Begin your day with a scenic drive from Queenstown or Te Anau to Milford Sound, home to iconic sights like Stirling Falls and Mitre Peak, where a 2-hour nature cruise awaits. Experience pristine waters, close encounters with cascading waterfalls, and wildlife observation. Take advantage of the knowledgeable nature guide to learn more about the area's geology and ecology. And, keep a lookout! There's a chance to spot seals basking on the rocks or even a playful pod of dolphins in the waters. Submerged wonder Journey beneath the surface with a visit to the only floating underwater observatory in New Zealand. Spend an hour marveling at the colorful fishes, anemones, and the rare black coral, usually found in the deep ocean. This extraordinary glimpse into the hidden underwater world enhances the wonder of the Milford Sound adventure. Finally, round off your day with a freshly prepared picnic lunch featuring a sandwich, cheese and crackers, fresh seasonal fruits, crisps, a cookie, and a chocolate bar.