A Guide to Milford Sound Cruise, Underwater Observatory, and Lunch in Fiordland

Milford Sound is one of the most beautiful places in New Zealand and a must-see for any visitor. Located in the Fiordland National Park on the South Island, it boasts breathtaking mountain peaks, lush rainforest, and stunning waterfalls. But the area has so much more to offer than just the incredible vista. Visitors can also take advantage of a cruise, explore the underwater observatory, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Planning the perfect Milford Sound experience is easy with this complete guide.

How to Get to Milford Sound

Milford Sound is in the southwest corner of New Zealand’s South Island, and getting there by car is one of the most popular ways to see the area. From Queenstown, it’s about a three-hour drive – though you will want to budget extra time for a few stops along the way. One of the best spots for those driving from Queenstown is The Chasm, which is only 15 minutes from Milford Sound.

Other popular ways to get to Milford Sound are through direct cruises from Queenstown and Te Anau; coach shuttle services; or helicopter and plane flights from Queenstown or Te Anau. Each option offers unique experiences and provides visitors with flexible ways to start their journey to this incredible spot.

Cruise Through Milford Sound

A cruise through Milford Sound is often one of the most popular activities for visitors with all types of budgets. The cruises typically last around two hours and offer unbeatable views of Milford Sounds’s spectacular scenery, glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife (including dolphins, seals, and sometimes even whales).

Depending on visitors’ specific interests, cruises can focus on natural sightseeing, photo opportunities, and even include enjoyable lunches on board. There are options for every type of trip including day trips, afternoon cruises, long cruises with overnight camping, and overnight cruises with luxurious accommodations. Most cruises have an informative narration from experienced guides as well. A few local companies that offer high-quality boat cruises are Real Journeys NZ LTD (https://realjourneys.co.nz/fiordland/milford-sound/) and Go Orange (https://goorange.nz/destinations/milford-sound/)

Explore the Underwater Observatory

For visitors interested in a deeper look below the sparkling waters of Milford Sound, an underwater observatory can be a great option. The observatory gives visitors breathtaking views of an interesting subaquatic world filled with marine life including wrasse, blue cod and anemone. The teams at each observatory provide educational commentary and answer questions about the unique creatures of Milford’s waters.

The observatory can be accessed by ferry or cruise from Milford Wharf and runs from either 9:30am or 10:30am daily –visitors should book a spot before departing for their trip. A few companies that provide underwater observatory services include Mitre peak Cruises (https://www.mitrepeak.com/experience/underwater-observatory/) and Explore Milford (https://exploremilford.co.nz/the-undersea-explorer/).

Enjoy a Traditional Kiwi Lunch

After an exciting day of exploring nature in Milford Sound, visitors may be feeling peckish – luckily there are some great places to grab lunch! There are several top-notch restaurants in Milford Sound that offer traditional Kiwi dishes such as kōura (crayfish), mussels, māti (a type of grayling fish), lamb, venison, fresh local mussels and lots of other tasty dishes.

The options for lunch don’t stop there though – travelers can also find espresso coffee, craft beers brewed in Te Anau, delicious local ice-creams and juices from around New Zealand. With such a diverse selection of food at Milford Sound, it’s no surprise that visitors often find themselves wanting to stay a little longer than planned!

Make it Happen with GetYourGuide

If you’re thinking about planning a trip to Milford Sound – don’t wait! From gorgeous cruises through stunning waters to exploring the underwater world and enjoying delicious traditional NZ cuisine – Milford Sound has something for everyone to enjoy. And you can make booking your dream trip even easier by using GetYourGuide.com. With GetYourGuide you’ll be able to find plenty of amazing activities in Milford Sound during your stay – like a cruise with lunch – without any hassle. So stop waiting and make it happen in Fiordland with GetYourGuide!

An Insider’s Guide to Queenstown, New Zealand: Discover Hidden Gems Beyond the Tourist Spots

Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, is a breathtakingly beautiful town filled with outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and a lively nightlife. But beyond the popular tourist spots, there are hidden gems that only insiders know about. Here’s our guide to exploring Queenstown like a local.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While Queenstown is famous for its bungee jumping, skiing, and skydiving, there are plenty of lesser-known attractions worth exploring. Take a walk along the Queenstown Hill Time Walk to enjoy stunning views without the crowds. Visit the tranquil Moke Lake for an off-the-beaten-path scenic hiking experience. To escape the tourist crowds, visit the charming village of Arrowtown, filled with heritage buildings and quaint shops.

Dining Spots: Discover the Local Cuisine

Queenstown’s food scene is as diverse as it is delicious. New Zealand’s unique cuisine combines the best of European, Pacific, and Māori flavors. For a taste of local favorites, head to Fergburger, famous for its massive and mouthwatering burgers. You’ll also enjoy classic fish and chips at Erik’s Fish and Chips, a long-standing local favorite overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Do not miss the classic Kiwi dessert pavlova at Amisfield Winery and Bistro.

Cultural Experiences: Discover the Traditions

Queenstown is not just about adventurous activities but also has a vibrant cultural scene. Witness the tradition of the Haka (a Māori war dance) at a cultural performance or the annual Te Pakanga Haka. In winter, take part in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest winter festival – The Queenstown Winter Festival. Visit the Toi o Tahuna Gallery for a glimpse of contemporary Māori and New Zealand art or join the Kiwi Birdlife Park tour to learn about the country’s unique flora and fauna.

Local History: Discover the Captivating Stories

Queenstown has a rich history, from the gold rush to the filming of blockbuster movies like Lord of the Rings, where the town served as a principal location. Take a walk through the historic gold-mining town of Arrowtown and learn from the museum exhibits about the region’s rich history. Take an hour-long trip on the TSS Earnslaw, a 107-year-old steamship to learn about the history of the lake and the surrounding areas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Discover Unique Experiences

Make the most of your trip to Queenstown by experiencing some unforgettable activities. Go on a hot-air balloon ride to enjoy a panoramic view of the region’s stunning landscapes or take a helicopter ride to the Milford Sound to witness the breathtaking beauty of the region from above. If you’re looking for something more accessible, take a scenic drive to the Glenorchy Animal Experience to see kangaroos, wallabies, and other exotic animals.

Queenstown has so much to offer, and this insider’s guide takes you beyond the typical tourist spots. There’s no question that the city is a breathtaking destination, but what sets it apart is the range of unforgettable experiences that await those willing to look beyond its most visited corners. Enjoy your stay and make some memories of a lifetime.