Milford Sound
Milford Sound
4.5
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- Lorraine APerth, Australia65 contributionsFabulous TripWe had originally booked our full tour through Cheeky Kiwi Tours but unfortunately they had to cancel out on us due to sickness. They recommended another Tour Operator - Fjordland Tours who were absolutely fabulous and I am so pleased that we went with them as I feel that we had an awesome experience with many extra places visited both en route to Milford Sound and during our return trip. Karlyn our driver on the 16 seater tour bus was an absolute legend. He took time out to explain points of interest along the way. The packed lunch was to die for and included some luxury food items which we did not expect (chocolates, premium juice, fruit, scones, sandwiches) Tea and coffee was served from the tour bus at one of the fabulous lookout points. The boat trip across Milford Sound was very comfortable. Refreshments were available throughout the cruise. Overall this was a very enjoyable and informative day. Fun filled and packed with information. Exceptional views. Thank you.Visited November 2022Written 11 December 2022
- Ryan GSydney, Australia3 contributionsRock sausages??Fantastic day! Was surprised to see Milford Sound had a Scuba diving, and really glad I ended up diving with them. Skipper Lance and Instructor Zach were both fantastic, and had a great group to dive with on the day as well. Also, I know what rock sausages are now!Visited December 2022Travelled soloWritten 14 December 2022
- Gail F16 contributionsStunning landscapesThere's no doubt that Milford Sound is one of the most stunning places to visit in New Zealand. I first visited about 10 years ago and at that time there had been lots of rock falls on the Milford Road when I was there and access wasn't guaranteed. I was fortune that the road was open on restricted hours and I got there but a shortened boat trip on Milford Sound due to the Homer tunnel being closed by late afternoon. It was raining and low cloud on the day but still worthwhile. Staying in Te Anau for a few days this week I decided to drive up to Milford as it was fine weather and enjoy seeing the dramatic scenery on the Milford Road on the way, especially driving through the Homer tunnel. While waiting for the green light to proceed through the tunnel a couple of cheeky Kea landed on my car, pecking at the rubber surround of the windscreen and fixtures for the roof rack. They are big birds when seen up close. Arriving at Milford and it's amazing. I saw a sign for car parking and turned left into the parking area and then over to the cafe to get a coffee and something to eat. Went back to the car park and saw a sign inside the car park advising a parking fee of $25. This is outrageous because there's no sign of cost before entering. As I only intended to stay for around an hour or so this annoyed me a lot. If I had known I would have parked at a rest area and walked a short distance. What I object to is the sneaky way that you don't find out about the $25 minimum fee until you're actually driven in and you're trapped. Camera surveillance operating. I spoke to other people and they also found it confusing. Today I spoke to some local people in Te Anau and the feedback was that it was to discourage locals from going there. They want overseas visitors because they are more likely to spend money on the boat trips. I've travelled all over New Zealand and visited many scenic attractions that have car parking provided but no parking fee. It's disappointing to see a natural treasure commercialised in this way. It's not the New Zealand that I grew up in.Visited December 2022Travelled soloWritten 15 December 2022
- aleekwaAsia84 contributionsBeautiful but not stunningthe rock formations, the waterfalls, and landscape are beautiful, but not stunning enough to be marketed as "8th world wonders" as some travel agencies have claimed. 7-hr of driving from and to Queenstown + petrol $ + NZD 100 pp non-inclusive cruise ticket + NZD 25 mandatory parking fee, I'm not sure if it is worth the price. Certainly not if it is raining, oh, Milford Sound rains 180+ day per year on average. Luckily we got some sunshine and blur sky when we cruisedVisited December 2022Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 December 2022
- chris gPerth, Australia75 contributionsStunning waterfalls & mountain scenery.We did a cruise on the Southern discovery boat. Food on board was good & a reasonable price. Scenery was stunning, lots of waterfalls, we saw a seal & a penguin. Was a bit of rain, but plenty of room to take cover. Don't pay $25 for parking! There is free parking on the left as you arrive, with a free shuttle bus to the ferry jetties!Visited November 2022Written 1 January 2023
- BlueNoseBrotherEdinburgh, United Kingdom341 contributionsSimply spectacular.Simply stunning, spectacular, and fantastic, I could go on, but that sums it up. This piece of natural landscape is simply a must see. It can be very wet at times so come prepared but if your lucky you can get some fine days also. However its the scenery that is the main attractions no matter the weather, the vegetation the waterfalls the sea all add up to a beautiful spot. Then you have the wildlife, look out for sea lions, dolphin and penguins plus an array of seabirds.Visited January 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 6 January 2023
- Cynthia UDallas, Texas968 contributionsstunning waterfallsamazing boat trip we had one of those rare picture perfect days where the seals were sunning themselves on the rocks. the waterfalls were pretty great and the boat was fine. i did not participate in the ducking inside the waterfall. those would did looked pretty drenched.Visited January 2023Written 7 January 2023
- AixTexTexas108 contributionsBreathtakingA fiord boat ride was the #1 thing we wanted to do in New Zealand, and it lived up to our expectations. We were very pleased with Mitre Peak: commentary was complete without being overdone/disruptive, and the boat was very comfortable with plenty of windows, which is a good thing since there are always a few people who park themselves on the deck and won't move. Skies were sunny on the day we went but I think it would be just as enjoyable if it were raining: i.e. don't worry if sky is overcast on the day you go. Highly recommend this experience for everyone.Visited December 2022Written 9 January 2023
- Jem1 contributionMind blowing experience and I’m a New Zealander!My sister,nephew and I chose the overnight boat cruise with RealNZ. The trip was mind blowing with spectacular scenery , seriously knowledgeable staff(Ben) and hospitality staff who were welcoming and friendly . A great idea was to mix us up with guests from other rooms and nationalities to share the delicious three course buffet. The sights , sounds and passion from RealNZ staff for the stunning Milford Sound was just heartwarming that the area is in safe hands. We left from Queenstown in a RealNZ small bus with the most knowledgeable bus driver Branden who regaled us with local information the whole 4/5 hour journey. As the the weather on the Queenstown side was bad and we couldn’t fly out to get our different perspective of the area we had saved seats on the bus back. Branden took us for a 30 minute bush walk that was easy and we felt like we were in Jurassic park on our way back. Would recommend this trip 100% It was awesome value for money for such an awesome experience!!Visited January 2023Written 16 January 2023
- KarolinaG73Melbourne, Australia66 contributionsMilford Sound cruiseDefinitely a place to visit when in New Zealand South Island. Beautiful, amazing scenery. Surreal views of how earth created such an area. Catch a bus via a tour company which stops at locations for photo opportunities.Visited January 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 20 January 2023
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4.5
5,798 reviews
Excellent
4,621
Very good
904
Average
221
Poor
37
Terrible
15
Shriju
Sydney, Australia34 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
Wonderful scenic 360 degree views. Thanks to a fabulous weather - we could see Penguin, seal and dolphins. The drive from Queenstown was also fabulous however the stop of Mirror lakes was a big disappointment - No reflection in the Lakes !
Written 26 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cruiser756310
2 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Friends
We had Ash as a guide, she is a terrific driver and a great great guide, knows a lot.
Sometimes explanations were a bit too long but other than that all was fantastic
Sometimes explanations were a bit too long but other than that all was fantastic
Written 25 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Maps62501782796
3 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
Mitre Peak Cruises is the only cruise through Milford Sound where you will hear the Māori place names and Māori history of this beautiful place. Thank you Olivia Jack for this enrichening experience and sharing your knowledge.
Written 19 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scott F
Minneapolis, MN54 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
This is one of the best places to visit in all of New Zealand. I’m not sure what else to say about the review, but if you’re not visiting it, then you didn’t visit New Zealand.
Written 13 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
DejongTravel
Melbourne, Australia2 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Solo
The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sounds might be a wee bit long, but it was excellent, the whole scenery of high mountains was majestic. Our cruise caught some rain but we were told Milford looks even better in the rain due to its waterfall feature
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LesGosselins
Quebec City, Canada437 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Friends
Wonderful! Book a tour, it is worth it. If possible, choose a coach cruise coach. The road is long and all calculated, it is really worth the additionnal price.
Written 10 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marion F
Greensborough, Australia33 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
Went on the mv mariner where you stay on board overnight and you get to see and experience the sound without all the crowds. The bus trip which was included in the price was a full size touring bus which was a pleasant surprise. Our driver (Craig) was fantastic and stopped at many lookouts etc and was very informative. Cabin was compact and as suggested an overnight bag is best. Food was quite good and staff were friendly. A great experience.
Written 7 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gert A
Denmark53 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
Well, every New Zealand travel book will tell you to go to Milford Sound - but just know that; the drive is long in and out - and will probably lengthen your driving time with at least 8-9 hours (from Queenstown). Time that could be spent on going somewhere else.There is nothing there except for mountains, lake, commercial flights and cruises. Your mobile network is unlikely to connect and they do not offer wifi in the terminal. The coffee machine "works", but cannot connect to credit card providers (MasterCard and Visa) - so essentially no service there either.
(After I came home I saw they charged me for the coffee anyway... what a hoax)
Your parking ticket runs into 10 NZD /hour and campsites out there are expensive - as in double up on price. The closer you get, the more expensive it all is. (early out - take the free parking and walk a little more).
If this spells "tourist trap", you are absolutely right. I rate it 3 stars, since the views and the mountains are for real. If you saw Norwegian Fjords, you can spare this one for sure, even if it is different.
Look yourself in the mirror before going; is this worthwhile .. I think it's 50/50 at best, but then again, I was already here.
(After I came home I saw they charged me for the coffee anyway... what a hoax)
Your parking ticket runs into 10 NZD /hour and campsites out there are expensive - as in double up on price. The closer you get, the more expensive it all is. (early out - take the free parking and walk a little more).
If this spells "tourist trap", you are absolutely right. I rate it 3 stars, since the views and the mountains are for real. If you saw Norwegian Fjords, you can spare this one for sure, even if it is different.
Look yourself in the mirror before going; is this worthwhile .. I think it's 50/50 at best, but then again, I was already here.
Written 7 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mdh969
Canberra, Australia615 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Friends
Four of us went on a cruise on Milford Sound. It was very picturesque and the guide was knowledgeable and funny.
We decided to take the bus from Te Anau as part of the tour. This was better than driving because we got running commentary and the bus knew where to stop to get great photos along the way. It also meant I could take in the views without driving. The bus also gave us a bag with our lunch to take on the cruise. Lunch was not available on our cruise. It did have tea, coffee and biscuits.
If you are in the area, you need to see Milford Sound.
We decided to take the bus from Te Anau as part of the tour. This was better than driving because we got running commentary and the bus knew where to stop to get great photos along the way. It also meant I could take in the views without driving. The bus also gave us a bag with our lunch to take on the cruise. Lunch was not available on our cruise. It did have tea, coffee and biscuits.
If you are in the area, you need to see Milford Sound.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joyman L
Perth, Australia1,513 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Visited in May 2023
We booked a smaller cruise for Milford Sound and drove from Queenstown (approx 3.6hr) with some stops such as Te Anau, Mirror Lakes etc). Definitely do-able, just ensure to leave early and arrive on-time for check-in to your cruise. We arrived an hour early for our cruise. There are plenty of parking available including ones for campervans. Parking fees are available for purchase in the car park.
Located next to the car park is the info centre (with a small gift shop and cafe). Toilet facilities are also located here.
The cruise departure terminal is located approx. 5min (walking) from the carpark. There is a wooden walkway that is not sheltered the whole way so ensure to either bring an umbrella or be prepared during wet weather when arriving via self-drive. Tour bus drop-offs and parking are located here in front of the terminal. All check-in counters for the various companies are located in the terminal and it can get pretty busy. More toilet facilities are located here. There are some historic information about the surrounding area and the notorious sandflies.
Our cruise had interior and exterior seating (exterior seating has a clear roof) which was great on a slightly drizzly day. The slightly wet weather during our visit resulted in some healthy waterfalls in the sound. The cruise went all the way to the St Anne point before returning back. We were fortunate enough to see some dolphins around the area.
And the cruise went close to one of the waterfalls to allow passengers to be drenched which was a hoot for the adventurous ones.
Overall it was a pleasant cruise which took almost the whole day before we returned and drove back to Queenstown.
We booked a smaller cruise for Milford Sound and drove from Queenstown (approx 3.6hr) with some stops such as Te Anau, Mirror Lakes etc). Definitely do-able, just ensure to leave early and arrive on-time for check-in to your cruise. We arrived an hour early for our cruise. There are plenty of parking available including ones for campervans. Parking fees are available for purchase in the car park.
Located next to the car park is the info centre (with a small gift shop and cafe). Toilet facilities are also located here.
The cruise departure terminal is located approx. 5min (walking) from the carpark. There is a wooden walkway that is not sheltered the whole way so ensure to either bring an umbrella or be prepared during wet weather when arriving via self-drive. Tour bus drop-offs and parking are located here in front of the terminal. All check-in counters for the various companies are located in the terminal and it can get pretty busy. More toilet facilities are located here. There are some historic information about the surrounding area and the notorious sandflies.
Our cruise had interior and exterior seating (exterior seating has a clear roof) which was great on a slightly drizzly day. The slightly wet weather during our visit resulted in some healthy waterfalls in the sound. The cruise went all the way to the St Anne point before returning back. We were fortunate enough to see some dolphins around the area.
And the cruise went close to one of the waterfalls to allow passengers to be drenched which was a hoot for the adventurous ones.
Overall it was a pleasant cruise which took almost the whole day before we returned and drove back to Queenstown.
Written 15 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LeetylouandLarrytoo
Stillwater, OK75 contributions
Where does the Nordam stop in Milford Sound? I see tours, but it only says M.S.?!?
We'd like to take a flight out of Queenstown, but couldn't tell if there was a stop.
4wheelsonmywagon
Edinburgh, UK173 contributions
Cruise liners do not dock in Milford Sound - they just float around in and out. We did a coach trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound and opted for the add on to fly back to Queenstown which was the experience of a life time. But unless you bribe the Captain - -
Cruises around NZ take you within all the attractions ( coach trip) except for Queenstown. Suggest you leave the liner at the end and fly to Queenstown if you really want to go there and hire a car and drive to Christchurch (days drive) or up the west coast. Roads in Nz at red ok but take twice as long as you think (hills & bends)
robyn h
Collaroy Beach, Australia210 contributions
Is there a company that will transfer bags from Te Anau to Milford sound so we don’t have to carry everything?!
funkyskull
Melbourne, Australia55 contributions
Nfi?
Britt P
Brisbane, Australia6 contributions
Hi, my husband and I are travelling in July this year, we are hiring a car, is it safe to self-drive to Milford Sound or would it be better to get the tour?
W3sty333
Melbourne, Australia33 contributions
Yes, it’s safe to drive up yourself. You can stopped along the way at scenic spots. The only issues you need to take note is part of the route is through a tunnel are subject to weather conditions. Check the day before at Te Anua info centre for further info. Ensure you have full tank of petrol. Parking onsite will cost you but there is free parking just before you get to Milford Sound & a shuttle bus service picks you up & drops off free of charge.
Well worth the trip.
Marcelo Carvalho
Niteroi, RJ
Nonsense people in a wheelchair are unable to do this tour. I have ALS and I would love to do this tour, maybe on a scooter my wife and my daughters can help me get on the boat!
CFEIII
Center, TX4,948 contributions
I think you can do it, the crew seemed helpful for some when I was there and helped them on and off the boat. There might be some discomfort getting on and off, but go for it!
eleonora m
Verona, Italy12 contributions
Vale la pena fare volo piu crociera da qeenstown? Oppure è preferibile andare in auto più crociera da Te Anau?
ver dps88
Denpasar, Indonesia
i am planning a trip to milford sound in mid November 2019, is the weather suitable if i ride by motorcycle ?
Stephen A
Leeds, UK233 contributions
Hi i drove there in early December and it was beautiful the weather can be changeable so keep your eye on the reports in november but don't miss it, its a fantastic drive through the rainforest with views to die for, don't forget to stop as many places enroute as possible hopefully get some Kea encounters they are such amazing birds, the area just before the tunnel is a good Kea place, choose a sunny day for the best views but go anyway its brilliant, I choose the milford cruise company for the sound its a smaller vessel and less crowds only 12 other people on our trip would recommend it highly, try and stay in Te Anau the night before so you can get an early start, good pubs there and places to eat, and petrol, if you go early you will miss the crowds and have the road to yourself, Heaven !!!
Tuan B
6 contributions
I have 24 hours in Te Anau. I will be driving from Dunedin and stay a night in Te Anau. Can someone suggest what time I should arrive at Te Anau so I can do a cruise tour and a walking tour within 24 hours? I will then leave Te Anau for Queenstown.
Punit M
Auckland408 contributions
It is approximately a 3hrs drive from Dunedin so working backwards with what you want to do, would suggest you leave Dunedin by 6 am and maximise your day. You will be able to do both the activities also there will be less traffic and roadwork stoppages
saqar42
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Can I visit Milford Sound in June or the cold will be severe
Brian S
Traralgon, Australia824 contributions
You can visit all year round, but I would suggest you stay in Teanu and do the coach and cruise that way you get to see all the awesome views there and back plus the coach stops numerous times for photo opportunities
Compass167096
Honolulu, HI
Is there WiFi on the Milford Mariner?
Rafael Wakelin
37 contributions
There i no wifi on board the vessels.
The views are fantastic. Enjoy the cruise and disconnect.
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Claim your listingMilford Sound: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Milford Sound
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Milford Sound:
- Cruise Milford NZ Small Boutique Cruise Experience (From AU$141.63)
- Full-Day Milford Sound Tour with Cruise and Walks from Te Anau (From AU$232.88)
- Milford Sound Day Tour and Cruise from Queenstown (From AU$260.44)
- Milford Sound Scenic Cruise (From AU$145.43)
- Luxury Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Cruise (From AU$299.41)