Set off from Queenstown in the morning, following in the path of the ancient Māori who used to travel to Milford Sound in search of precious pounamu (greenstone) more than 1,000 years ago. The road to Milford Sound has some of the world’s most spectacular scenery. Check out panoramic views of Fiordland National Park along the way from our glass-roof coach and hear about the history of this special part of the world. Stop for a bite to eat in Te Anau (own expense), before driving along the shores of Lake Te Anau and through the Eglinton Valley, where you’ll see an ancient alpine forest, massive waterfalls, and the famous Mirror Lakes. Make the most of these magical photo opportunities before our Milford Sound tour continues, taking you through the Upper Hollyford Valley and past the stunning Christie Falls.
After passing through the 1.2km long Homer Tunnel (drilled through the solid rock of the Southern Alps), we enter the breathtaking Cleddau Valley and then descend into Milford Sound. Here you’ll jump on 1-hour 45-minute boat cruise and tuck into a free picnic lunch and complimentary coffee, tea, and biscuits as your Milford Sound cruise begins. Cruise along the fiord and take in the famous sights and landmarks of Milford Sound, like the uniquely shaped Mitre Peak, glacier-scarred rock walls that rise 1,200m vertically from the sea. Keep an eye out for marine life like dolphins, seals, and penguins too! The fiord is dotted with waterfalls that tumble through the valleys and crash into the sound far below, making the scenery in Milford Sound spectacular, rain or shine.
After the cruise your guide will be waiting to drive you back to Queenstown, arriving in the evening.
Picnic-style lunch on cruise
Additional food and drinks
