The longest Milford Sound cruise

About this experience

This is the boat without the bus. Southern Discoveries calls it its longest cruise on Milford Sound: 2 h 15 min on the water, with a Nature Guide on board talking about how the fiord formed and what lives in it. The boat goes in close at Stirling Falls, and seals, dolphins and sometimes Fiordland crested penguins turn up.

You get there yourself. The terminal is at the end of State Highway 94, about 120 km and two hours from Te Anau according to Fiordland's tourism office. Check in 30 minutes before. The listing shows departures at 9:30am, 12:30pm and 2:45pm, with the 12:30 sailing offering a picnic lunch (vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options; book 24 hours ahead).

Cruises can be cancelled for unsafe weather, and the Milford Road can close for snow, avalanche risk or slips. Check the NZTA road status page the night before and again in the morning, and fill the tank in Te Anau. Back in town by evening? The glowworm caves run late in summer.

• 2 h 15 min on the water, the longest Southern Discoveries cruise
• A Nature Guide on board
• Close passes at Stirling Falls
• Optional picnic lunch on the 12:30 sailing
• Indoor cabins and outdoor decks

How the day runs

1. About 2 hoursDrive to Milford

   From Te Anau up the Milford Road, through the Homer Tunnel.

2. 30 min beforeCheck in at the terminal

   Milford Sound cruise terminal, at the end of State Highway 94.

3. 2 h 15 minThe cruise

   Down the fiord with a Nature Guide, close in at the waterfalls and wildlife.

4. AfternoonDrive back

   About two hours back to Te Anau, in daylight if you take an early sailing.

What's included

Who it suits

What guests say

Tips before you book

• Leave Te Anau at least 2.5 hours before your sailing to allow for stops and the Homer Tunnel lights.
• Book the 12:30 sailing if you want the picnic lunch, and order it 24 hours ahead.
• Check the Milford Road status the night before. Chains may be needed in winter and spring.
• Sit outside on the way to Stirling Falls, with a waterproof layer.

Read next:

• Things to do in Te Anau

Frequently asked questions

Compare with

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