Milford Sound Boutique Boat Tour from Queenstown | Cruise Milford
Difficulty
easy
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels since the tour involves mainly sitting and short walks.
Overview
Experience Milford Sound without the stress of driving on a small-group tour from Queenstown. Enjoy scenic stops, a picnic lunch, and a boutique boat cruise that brings you close to waterfalls and native wildlife.
From Queenstown – Small Boutique Tour with Picnic Lunch Included
All ages • 12 Hours • 12+ tour stops along the route!
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About This Adventure
Don't feel like driving to Milford Sound yourself? Join this fully guided small group tour from Queenstown and sit back and relax. With a minimum of 12 stops along the way we make sure you really get to see it all!
Duration
12 Hours
About
This tour is operated by our local partners Cheeky Kiwi. Their 16-seater Mercedes Sprinters offer a very smooth ride for your day tour.
With pickup's from selected hotels from 7am onward we set off from Queenstown and travel along Lake Wakatipu. Our first stop is at the head of the lake. The view from here back to Queenstown is spectacular.
After a couple more stops we arrive in Te Anau at the Alpine Center Cafe for a 30min break. Food, drinks and souvenirs can be purchased here and we always stop to feed the Alpacas outside.
On the way to Milford Sound we stop many more times for short walks and photo opportunities. The Mercedes Sprinter Vans can get to places none of the bigger coaches can.
At Milford Sound the tour connects with our Boutique Small Boat cruise. Enjoy your packed lunch box and complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits on-board while cruising past sheer cliff faces and cascading waterfalls.
The smaller size of the vessel allows us to get up close and personal with the local wildlife like New Zealand Fur Seals, dolphins or the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. A "Glacial Facial" is an experience not to be missed.
After the cruise returns we make our way back to Queenstown were we will drop you off around 8pm.
Adventure Tips
Book Early to Secure Your Seat
This popular small-group tour fills quickly, so reserve well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Milford Sound’s weather can shift rapidly; dress in layers and bring waterproof gear to stay comfortable.
Bring a Camera with Zoom
A zoom lens helps capture wildlife and distant waterfalls during the boat cruise without disturbing the environment.
Travel Light for the Boat Cruise
Limit bulky gear since the small boat has limited storage space—carry essentials only.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand Fur Seal
- Fiordland Crested Penguin
History
Milford Sound was charted by Captain John Grono in 1823 and remains a key site in Maori legend and modern conservation.
Conservation
The tour emphasizes responsible tourism, supporting local efforts to preserve native habitats and wildlife populations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against frequent rain and wind on the road and during the boat cruise.
spring specific
Layered Clothing
Allows quick adjustments to fluctuating temperatures from alpine to fiord environments.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing without disturbing animals around Milford Sound.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Captures fine details of waterfalls, cliffs, and elusive wildlife during the cruise.