How to Plan Your Milford Sound Nature Cruise on Premium Glass-Roof Catamaran

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Fiordland, then a Milford Sound nature cruise on a premium glass-roof catamaran is the perfect choice. Get ready to see everything around you on this three-level indoor and outdoor seating unique glass roof tour. Here’s how to plan your Milford Sound nature cruise.

Experience

On this tour, you will get up close to nature with spacious outdoor viewing decks and a premium glass-roof catamaran. You’ll also get to marvel at wildlife and find out how Captain Cook missed Milford Sound. Feel free to relax in comfortable booth seating with stylish decor and great meal options.

Highlights

The Milford Sound nature cruise on a premium glass-roof catamaran offers several highlights, including:

– Stunning views of the incredible fiord
– Three-level indoor and outdoor seating with unique glass roofs and large viewing decks
– High-definition cameras project outdoor footage live onto TV screens throughout the vessel
– Friendly crew to welcome you onboard
– New Zealand fur seals basking on rocks
– Tallest waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere
– Engaging commentary from an experienced skipper

How to Get There

The tour departs from Milford Sound Visitor Terminal located at Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand. You can reach Milford Sound by driving from Queenstown (290km) or Te Anau (120km), the two nearest towns in South Island. Another way is to take a scenic flight from Queenstown or Te Anau to Milford Sound Airport, followed by a short drive to the visitor terminal.

When to Go

The best time to go on a Milford Sound nature cruise is between November and April, which is the summer season in New Zealand. During this time, the weather is mild, and the days are longer. However, be prepared for sudden changes in weather, including wind, rain, and sun. It is essential to bring layers of clothing, comfortable footwear, a warm jacket, and a hat.

How to Book

Booking your Milford Sound nature cruise on a premium glass-roof catamaran is easy. You can book online at GetYourGuide, a trusted third-party booking platform. The tour costs NZD 100 per person, which includes a 2-hour cruise, onboard commentary, and complimentary tea and coffee. You can also add-on lunch options for NZD 20 per person.

What to Expect

On the day of your Milford Sound nature cruise, arrive at the visitor terminal at least 20 minutes prior to departure. The friendly crew will welcome you onboard ‘Gem of the Sound’. After a safety briefing, you’ll set sail on a smooth journey through the fiord. Throughout the cruise, you’ll learn all about the fiord’s history, geology, flora, and fauna from your experienced skipper’s engaging commentary. Don’t forget to bring your camera as there will be plenty of opportunities to capture stunning views of the fiord.

Packing List

Here’s a list of things you should bring on your Milford Sound nature cruise:

– Warm jacket
– Hat
– Sunglasses
– Sunscreen
– Camera
– Comfortable footwear
– Layered clothing
– Cash for souvenirs

Conclusion

A Milford Sound nature cruise on a premium glass-roof catamaran is an unforgettable experience that you don’t want to miss. Follow these tips to plan your tour and make the most out of your trip. Book the tour now and get ready to be amazed by the stunning views of Fiordland.

Insider’s Guide to Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, located on New Zealand’s South Island, is often referred to as the adventure capital of the world. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse culinary scene, and extensive array of activities, the city is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. This insider’s guide will take you beyond the conventional tourist attractions and show you some hidden gems only locals know of.

Local Attractions

While there are many famous landmarks to visit in Queenstown, there are also many lesser-known places you should not miss. One of them is Queenstown Gardens. This beautiful parkland, located just a short walk from the city’s center, offers a tranquil and picturesque setting. Here you can enjoy a pleasant walk, watch birds in their natural habitat, or even play a round of frisbee golf.

Another gem is Arrowtown. This small town, located just twenty minutes’ drive from Queenstown, is a step back in time. You can wander the historic streets and learn about the town’s gold-mining past. The town is also home to some of the best preserved Chinese mining settlement buildings in New Zealand, which provides an insight into the lives of the Chinese goldminers at that time.

Dining Spots

Queenstown’s dining scene is hugely diverse and offers a range of cuisines. To get a real taste of New Zealand cuisine, visit Fergburger. This iconic burger joint is a must-visit for any food lover. Their burgers are freshly made to order using high-quality ingredients, and the quirky names of the burgers make for a fun experience.

For a fine dining experience, head to Botswana Butchery. This upscale restaurant offers a seasonal and locally sourced menu that reflects the finest ingredients of New Zealand. You can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and mountains while feasting on sumptuous dishes like roasted Canterbury lamb.

Cultural Experiences

Queenstown’s rich cultural heritage is a blend of Maori tradition and European influence. To experience this blend first-hand, visit the Toi o Tahuna Gallery. This contemporary Maori art gallery showcases the work of many talented Maori artists as well as contemporary New Zealand art.

Apart from this, the Gibbston Valley Winery offers a unique cultural experience, especially for wine lovers. This world-renowned winery produces some of New Zealand’s best pinot noirs and chardonnays. You can take a guided tour of the winery and learn about the history and process of making wine in the region.

Local History

Queenstown’s history is deeply rooted in the gold rush era, and there are many fascinating stories about this period. One such tale is that of Daniel O’Connell’s pub. This Irish pub, established in 1879, was used as a courthouse during the gold rush. The pub’s unique interior and exterior have remained mostly unchanged, and many of the original features are still in use.

Another interesting slice of history lies at the Skippers Canyon. This historic gold-mining site is accessible only via Skippers Canyon Road, a narrow gravel road with breathtaking views. The site has preserved many historic buildings and structures from the gold-mining era.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

To experience Queenstown from a different angle, take a hot air balloon ride over the city and enjoy stunning views of the mountains, lakes, and surroundings. Another unique experience is the Skyline Luge. This adventure ride takes you down a track with twists, turns, and dips, and it’s suitable for all ages.

For a different kind of adventure, head to the Shotover Jet. This thrilling ride takes you on a jet boat ride deep into the Shotover Canyon, where you can experience the exhilaration of speed, acceleration, and spins.

In conclusion, Queenstown offers an unforgettable adventure. This insider’s guide has shown you some of the hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, stories from history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a food lover, Queenstown has something for everyone.