Adventure Collective
Milford Sound Small Boat Cruise by Cruise Milford - Queenstown

Milford Sound Small Boat Cruise by Cruise Milford

Milford Soundeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1 hour 45 minutes

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; requires no strenuous effort, mostly seated or standing aboard the boat.

Overview

Experience Milford Sound aboard a boutique small boat with Cruise Milford. Limited passengers means close encounters with iconic peaks, waterfalls, and rare wildlife in an intimate setting.

Milford Sound, Southland

Milford Sound Boutique Small Boat Cruise

Limited Seats Available! All Ages • 1 Hour 45 Minutes • Family owned and operated

Boat Tour

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About This Adventure

Embark on a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, where you'll marvel at iconic sights like Mitre Peak and the stunning Fairy Falls. Experience close encounters with wildlife, including the rare Kakapo and Fiordland Crested Penguin, while knowledgeable guides share captivating stories. Enjoy an intimate journey with limited passengers for a truly memorable adventure.

Join our boutique small boat cruise and experience Milford Sound the "local" way. We limit passenger numbers on all cruises to half of the boats capacity (capacity 150 passengers) to guarantee an uncrowded and much more personal experience.

Duration

1 Hour 45 Minutes

About

Let us show you our backyard on this once in a lifetime experience.

Cruise Milford NZ is a local family owned and operated company providing boutique small boat cruises at Milford Sound. With more than 40 years combined working experience in Milford Sound we guarantee an outstanding experience you will never forget.

Quality over quantity is one of the core values of what we do. The boat is surveyed for 150 passengers but we limit passenger numbers to 75 for an enhanced viewing experience. This guarantees your cruise will be uncrowded and gives our nature guides the opportunity to share their knowledge with you on a very personal level. As locals we know all the secret spots. During the cruise we stop at several points of interest like the Hanging Gardens, the Fairy and Stirling Falls and local seal colonies.

Relax with complimentary coffee, tea and biscuits and enjoy the skipper’s commentary while marvelling at the breath-taking scenery. The smaller size of the vessel enables us to get you up close and personal with the local wildlife like New Zealand Fur Seals, dolphins and the very rare Fiordland Crested Penguin (spring/early summer). A “Glacial Facial” under the Sterling Falls is an experience not to be missed.

Guests are more than welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks along for the cruise.

Both boats have wheelchair access to the main deck and cabin. Please give us a call for further information.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Check-In

Check in at the Cruise Milford counter 25 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Bring Your Camera and Binoculars

This cruise offers unparalleled wildlife and landscape photo opportunities; binoculars help spot elusive birds and seals.

Dress for Wet Conditions

Waterfall spray and occasional rain mean waterproof layers and quick-dry clothing will keep you comfortable throughout the trip.

Limit Loud Noises

Keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing sensitive wildlife, including the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin and seals.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Fiordland Crested Penguin
  • New Zealand Fur Seal

History

Captain Cook famously missed the Milford Sound entrance twice; the fjord itself was carved by glaciers over millions of years during the last Ice Age.

Conservation

Milford Sound is part of a national park where strict guidelines protect native species and habitats, and operators like Cruise Milford emphasize minimal environmental impact.

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Adventure Hotspots in Queenstown

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Waterproof Jacket

Essential

Protects from waterfall spray and occasional rain during the cruise.

all specific

Camera with Zoom Lens

Essential

Captures detailed shots of wildlife and sweeping landscapes.

all specific

Sunglasses

Reduces glare on clear days to improve visibility and comfort.

summer specific

Insect Repellent

Helpful during spring months when midges are more active near the water.

spring specific