Explore Milford Sound: Scenic Drive, Fiord Cruise & Southern Alps Flight from Queenstown
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical shape to handle a full day of travel including walking on uneven ground during photo stops.
Overview
Experience Milford Sound from three unforgettable perspectives: a scenic coach ride along Milford Road, a close-up two-hour fiord cruise, and a thrilling flight over the Southern Alps back to Queenstown. Discover why this trip is a premier outdoor adventure in New Zealand’s Southland Region.
Coach Cruise Fly from Queenstown with Mitre Peak Cruises
9 Hours • All Ages • Try All Three
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound from three unique perspectives. Enjoy a scenic drive with stunning photo stops, a two-hour intimate cruise through the fiord's wonders, and a thrilling flight over the Southern Alps, culminating in a spectacular view of Lake Wakatipu. An unforgettable adventure awaits!
Discover Milford Sound from three unforgettable perspectives
Trip Highlights
- Scenic drive with sightseeing stops along the famous Milford Road
- Two hour cruise, with frequent stops at spectacular points of interest
- Interactive and informative commentary throughout the journey
- Complimentary tea and coffee available on-board
- Scenic flight over untouched wilderness back to Queenstown
Duration
9 Hours
Ages
All Ages
Please note infants are classed as 11kgs or under. If over this weight they will be charged the child price due to CAA legal requirements.
Your Journey
Departing from Queenstown, your knowledgeable driver will provide an informative commentary on the points of interest along one of the world’s most picturesque drives – The Milford Road. Stop for some great photo opportunities along the way, before enjoying a two hour cruise aboard one of our specially designed small boats in Milford Sound.
Sit back and relax as your cruise departs from the Milford Sound Wharf, and makes its way out past the iconic Mitre Peak. Evoke your five senses as you take in the sights of this majestic region, feel the spray of Fairy Falls and listen to the sound of nature thriving in its natural habitat.
Cruise the length of the 16km fiord, out past St Annes Point Lighthouse, while listening to informative commentary from our skipper who will highlight points of interest along the way including the mighty Lady Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls. We go further, and get you closer than any other operator in Milford Sound.
Complete your journey with a birds-eye view of the largely untouched region as you fly back over the Southern Alps and are welcomed to the incredibly blue Lake Wakatipu upon landing in Queenstown.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Photo Stops
Start your journey from Queenstown early to enjoy stops along Milford Road when lighting is best and crowds are minimal.
Dress in Layers
Weather in Fiordland can change rapidly; layering helps you stay comfortable during the coach ride, cruise, and flight.
Bring Binoculars
To spot seals resting on rocks and native birdlife during the cruise, a pair of binoculars enhances your wildlife viewing.
Carry a Light Rain Jacket
Waterfalls and fiord spray can leave you damp—wear a light waterproof to stay dry and enjoy the cruise.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fur seal
- Bottlenose dolphin
History
Milford Sound was named by Captain Cook in 1770 and remains protected as part of Fiordland National Park, established in 1952.
Conservation
Operators follow strict guidelines to minimize impact on the fragile fiord ecosystem, including waste management and wildlife disturbance protocols.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from spray on the cruise and unpredictable Fiordland weather.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Ideal for stops along Milford Road requiring short, uneven walks.
Camera or Smartphone
Essential to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Binoculars
Helpful for spotting distant wildlife and mountain details during the cruise.