Milford Sound Scenic Flight and Nature Cruise

Milford Sound, New Zealand

See Milford Sound by air and water on a half-day tour from Queenstown that includes a round-trip flight and a boat tour through the sound. Save time and enjoy spectacular views as you fly over the breathtaking landscape of Fiordland National Park. Then, land in Milford Sound and board your boat to explore the scenic waterways of this World Heritage–listed region. Experienced naturalists and your pilot share informative commentary about the geology and wildlife of Milford Sound throughout this once-in-a-lifetime journey to one of New Zealand’s top natural wonders.

Your tour starts with pickup at your Queenstown hotel and transfer to the airport, where you meet your professional pilot. After a safety briefing, take your seat and set off to Milford Sound, located within the UNESCO World Heritage–listed regions of Te Wahipounamu and Fiordland National Park.

Large picture windows allow for optimal viewing throughout your flight as your pilot provides informative details about the terrain below. Marvel at gorgeous mountain landscapes cut with blue waterways, dusted by snow and framed by dramatic clouds and light.

After a gentle landing at the airstrip in Milford Sound, trade your wings for watercraft. Board your boat, which carries a maximum of only 75 people, for a 2.25-hour cruise. The smaller-sized craft (compared to up to 300 passengers, which other Milford Sound cruises accommodate) provides a more intimate experience and allows your captain to get within touching distance of cliffs and waterfalls. You can even taste pure glacier-melt water from the 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls.

Expert naturalists aboard your boat share details about the geology of this glacier-carved region and any wildlife that you might see, such as birds, seals, dolphins and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.

When booking, you have the option to pre-order a boxed lunch to be served during your cruise (sample menu below); otherwise, purchase a meal or snack from the onboard cafe. Complimentary tea and coffee are available for some liquid warmth as you travel through Milford Sound.

You are welcome to visit the captain’s bridge to learn about boat operations firsthand during the return voyage. At the end of your boat tour, enjoy a second chance to soak up the scenery as you fly back to Queenstown.

Sample boxed lunch menu (subject to change):

• Ham and cheese roll
• Chicken drumstick
• Seasonal salad with dressing
• Soup and bread (winter only)
• Cheese and crackers
• Packaged biscuit
• Chocolate bar
• Juice, tea and coffee