Premium Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Queenstown: A Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Tour

Milford Sound is a picturesque destination that offers some of the most impressive mountain and water views in the world. If you are planning a trip to Queenstown, taking a guided tour of Milford Sound is an unmissable activity. This blog post will guide you through the process of planning a premium small group tour to Milford Sound, which includes a Discovery Cruise and picnic lunch.

Step 1: Research reputable tour companies

Before booking a tour, do some research to find a reputable and experienced tour company. Look for companies that have good reviews and ratings from previous customers. One such company is Viator, which offers a Milford Sound Discovery Cruise and Tour from Queenstown for small groups.

Step 2: Choose a suitable tour package

Viator offers several tour options for Milford Sound, but the premium small group tour is the most recommended. This package includes a comfortable ride in a modern vehicle, the Milford Sound Discovery Cruise, and a delicious picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings. Optional extras and activities are also available, which you can select at the time of booking.

Step 3: Book the tour online

Once you have decided on a suitable tour package, you can book it online through Viator’s website. The booking process is quick and easy, and you will receive confirmation of your booking via email. It’s essential to book your tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Step 4: Prepare for the tour

Before setting off on your tour, there are a few things to prepare. You should wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking or hiking. Don’t forget to bring a warm layer, as it can get chilly on the boat. Bring a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent. The tour includes lunch, but bring some extra snacks and water to keep you energized throughout the day.

Step 5: Meet at the designated pickup point

On the day of the tour, you will meet with your guide and fellow travelers at the designated pickup point in central Queenstown. From here, you will be driven to Milford Sound in a modern and comfortable vehicle.

Step 6: Enjoy the Milford Sound Discovery Cruise

The Milford Sound Discovery Cruise is the highlight of the tour. You will see stunning views of waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and Mitre Peak. Listen to the informative and entertaining commentary provided by your guide, who will also point out areas where the Lord of the Rings was filmed. The entrance tickets for the cruise are included in the tour package, so you don’t have to worry about waiting in visitor lines.

Step 7: Explore the waterfalls of Lake Marian

After the cruise, you’ll have free time to explore the waterfalls of Lake Marian on foot. This refreshing and scenic walk is an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs and take some memorable photos.

Step 8: Enjoy a picnic lunch

The tour package includes a delicious picnic lunch, which is served amidst the beautiful surroundings of Milford Sound. The lunch features local delicacies and is sure to satisfy your appetite.

Step 9: Optional extras and activities

Viator offers several optional extras and activities that you can select at the time of booking. These include a helicopter flight over Milford Sound, a visit to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, and a scenic flight over the Southern Alps. These extras are a great way to make your tour even more memorable.

Step 10: Return to Queenstown

After an unforgettable day exploring Milford Sound, you will be driven back to Queenstown and dropped off at the original pickup point.

Conclusion

Milford Sound is an unmissable destination that offers breathtaking views of natural beauty. By following these steps, you can plan a premium small group tour that includes a Discovery Cruise and picnic lunch. Remember to research reputable tour companies, choose a suitable tour package, and book your tour in advance. Prepare for the tour, meet at the designated pickup point, and enjoy the Milford Sound Discovery Cruise. Take advantage of the optional extras and activities and return to Queenstown with memories that will last a lifetime.

Book the tour here to experience the beauty of Milford Sound!

The Insider’s Guide to Queenstown: Beyond the Touristy Spots

Queenstown, New Zealand, a stunning city nestled in the Southern Alps, has so much more to offer than just its world-renowned bungee jumping and skiing activities. Let’s explore some of the hidden gems, cultural experiences, local history, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions in Queenstown that will make your visit unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems That Only Locals Know

Sure, tourists flock to the Queenstown Gardens and the Skyline Gondola, but for an alternative and immersive experience, follow the locals to the Shotover River. There, you can have an adrenaline-pumping jet boat ride, or try your hand at gold panning. If you’re in the mood for a scenic stroll, head to Moke Lake, just 15 minutes away from the city. With its peaceful surroundings, gorgeous vistas, and easy walking trails, it’s a hidden gem that only locals know.

Dining Spots: A Taste of Local Cuisine and Culture

Queenstown is famous for its local cuisine, and experiencing it is truly a must. To appreciate the city’s culinary culture, head to The Bathhouse Café and indulge in one of their hearty and delicious seafood chowders. And no visit to Queenstown is complete without trying its famous Fergburger. However, the wait can be long at this popular spot, so try going on a weekday or off-hours. For a unique dining experience, make your way to Amisfield, a winery that offers a degustation menu paired with their award-winning wines.

Cultural Experiences: Art, Music, Festivals and More

Queenstown is a hub of creativity, art, and music. Visit Artbay Gallery, which features local artisan crafts and fine artworks unique to Queenstown and New Zealand. For a musical experience, The Sherwood offers live music from local artists or musicians from around the world. Be sure to check out the Arrowtown Autumn Festival, held annually in April, which showcases the city’s cultural heritage with a fantastic parade, vibrant markets, and live music events.

Local History: Stories from the City’s Past

Queenstown is richly steeped in historical significance. For a glimpse of the city’s fascinating past, visit the Toitū Otago Settlers Museum and learn about the earliest Maori inhabitants, the early European explorers, and the pioneer settlers who built the city. Head to Arrowtown and discover more about the gold rush era and the stories of the Chinese miners who labored there.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unforgettable Experiences

Get off the beaten path with a visit to the Glenorchy Animal Experience. Here you can explore farmland, feed the animals, and get up close and personal with sheep, pigs, cattle, and more. Or try something more intense with Ziptrek Ecotours, which will take you on a zip-line adventure through the forest. For an even more unique experience, take a scenic flight over the city with Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters or take a leisurely wine tour through the Central Otago wine region.

Queenstown is a city of adventure, culture, and beauty that has something for everyone. Use this insider’s guide to make sure you experience the city’s hidden gems, unique culinary culture, fascinating history, and unforgettable experiences beyond the tourist spots.