Milford Sound Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing

(Milford Sound, South Island, New Zealand)

All the tourist attractions of Milford Sound are on the theme of nature. It is all about the water and the mountains that plunge into it, with cruising and walking being the major highlights. Cruises on Milford Sound are a must, taking in sheer granite walls jutting up erect through dark waters.

You can also kayak the front of the Sound, as well as take to the air with scenic flights over the area. Walking in is also a major pastime, with everything from day hikes to the four-day Milford Track jaunt, which finishes here.

Cruises

Address: Milford Sound, New Zealand, NZ
Tel: +64 03 249 8733
The best way to see Milford Sound up close is on a cruise. Everyone who comes here goes on a cruise, and flights and trips generally include a boat ride. There are many cruise operators in Milford, connected with tours from Queenstown and Te Anau. Mitre Peak Cruises operate smaller vessels and go further. If you are staying in Milford Sound, cruise early morning, or much later, to avoid the crowds.

Cruises on Milford Sound are hugely popular and it is always best to book a few days ahead, if possible. All cruises depart from the Wharf Visitors Centre and take in a variety of natural attractions, such as the Bowen Falls, the Mitre Peak, Anite Bay and possible a rare penguin or two. Cruise times are anywhere between 30 minutes and two and a half hours. Picnic lunches may be available with longer cruise packages.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Scenic Flights / Aerial Sightseeing

Address: Milford Sound, New Zealand, NZ
Tel: +64 03 249 7416 (Milford Sound Flightseeing / Real Journeys)
Undoubtedly the best way to experience Milford Sound is to take a scenic flight and then cruise the water. Companies offer daily flights from Queenstown, Te Anau or Wanaka, taking in unending peaks, glaciers and high waterfalls. Both light aircraft and helicopters make this trip, which also saves a lengthy, winding drive via the Homer Tunnel. Check the weather ahead of time, as flights will be cancelled on rough days, or possibly not land in Milford Sound. Prices vary depending upon the flight time (between 10 minutes and 40 minutes) and also the number of passengers that day.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge

Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

Address: Harrison Cove, Milford Sound, New Zealand, NZ
Tel: +64 03 249 9442
The Milford Deep Underwater Observatory at Harrison Cove allows tourists to see under the waterline of Milford Sound down to a depth of 10 metres / 33 feet. You get to learn about some of the unique underwater life here and all major cruise operators make a stop off at the observatory, including Mitre Peak Cruises and Southern Discoveries. This circular underwater chamber is only accessible by boat and the price is quite steep for the short visit. Expect to view sea perch, corals and tube anemones, with visits being enhanced by informative commentary.
Open hours: daily
Admission: charge, discount for children, kids under four years free

Walking / Tramping / Milford Track

Address: Milford Sound, New Zealand, NZ
Tel: +64 03 441 1138
The Fiordland National Park has some of the finest walks in the world, period. You can take in peaks, the shoreline and some amazing natural scenery. One-day, albeit pricey, walks go into Fiordland from Milford Sound, courtesy of Trips 'n' Tramps. The Milford Track absolutely needs to be booked well in advance if you require a guide. Alternatively, it is possible to walk along the trail independently, if you first contact the DOC (Department of Conservation) Fiordland National Park.
Open hours: late October to April, May to September (limited facilities and a likelihood of heavy rain)
Admission: charge

Kayaking

Address: State Highway 94, Deepwater Basin, Milford Sound, New Zealand, NZ
Tel: +64 03 249 8500 (Rosco's Milford Kayaks)
Tel: +64 03 249 7700 (Fiordland Wilderness Experiences)
While cruising the Sound is the top pastime, you can get closer to the Mitre Peak by kayak. Kayaking on Milford Sound is open to all folks of varying fitness levels and you won't need experience. Trips go out daily with Rosco's Milford Sound Sea Kayaks, where the Sunriser Wildlife 'n' Waterfall trip is particularly popular. A kayak allows for a more personal, water-level experience, and if you opt for a guide-led kayaking trip, you will pass the Bowen Falls, the Stirling Falls and also Harrison Cove, as well as much of the Pembroke Glacier.
Open hours: daily in season
Admission: charge