Milford Sound is the kind of place photos never quite do justice, towering cliffs, waterfalls tumbling straight into the water, and if you're lucky a pod of dolphins or a seal having a snooze on the rocks. Whether you're already staying nearby or driving in from Te Anau, there's a Milford Sound cruise that fits your family's day, no matter how much time you've got up your sleeve.
Shorter cruise, departing Milford
The Milford Sound Cruise departing Milford is a relaxed 2 hour sail with purpose built observation decks, so the kids can get right up to the windows without missing a thing. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks and dolphins riding the wake, with informative commentary from the captain the whole way. It's the easiest option if you're already staying in the area and don't want a big day of travel on top of the cruise itself.
Full day from Te Anau, coach included
The Milford Sound Coach and Cruise departing Te Anau takes care of the whole day, a glass roofed coach out through Fiordland's alpine scenery, a scenic cruise once you arrive, then the return trip back to Te Anau. The glass roof means the kids get the views the whole way, not just once you're on the water, and the driver stops along the way for photos and short walks to stretch legs.
Full day with lunch included
The Pure Milford Coach and Cruise Tour from Te Anau covers the same coach and cruise combination, but with lunch built into the price rather than an extra, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options if anyone in the family has dietary needs. The cruise even noses in under Stirling Falls for a proper waterfall shower, a moment the kids won't stop talking about.
Frequently asked questions
Which Milford Sound cruise suits families with young kids best?
The Milford Sound Cruise departing Milford is the shortest option at 2 hours, a good fit if you'd rather keep the day simple without a long coach journey either side.
Is lunch included on the cruises?
The Pure Milford Coach and Cruise Tour includes lunch in the price. The standalone Milford cruise and the other Te Anau coach and cruise option both have food available to purchase on board instead.
How long is the full day coach and cruise option?
Both Te Anau departures run around 8 hours in total once travel time, the cruise itself and stops are included.
Will we see wildlife on the cruise?
Sightings are not guaranteed, but seals, dolphins and the occasional Fiordland crested penguin are commonly spotted from the observation decks.
Do the cruises accept cash on board?
Most Milford Sound vessels have gone cashless for food and drink purchases, so bring a card or use contactless payment rather than cash.
Local tip: pack warm layers and a proper raincoat no matter the forecast, Fiordland weather can turn quickly, and a rainy day still makes for a spectacular cruise with the waterfalls in full flow.
Compare the Milford Sound cruises above and pick the length and inclusions that suit your family's day.