Milford Sound Cruise

Milford Sound is a fiord carved by glaciers, with cliffs rising straight out of dark water and Mitre Peak standing guard near the entrance. It lies within Fiordland National Park, part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Cruises of around two hours run out towards the Tasman Sea and back, passing Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls and fur seals basking on the rocks. The road from Te Anau, through the Homer Tunnel, is part of the experience; from Queenstown it makes a long day, so a scenic flight back is worth considering.

Do not be put off by rain: it brings hundreds of temporary waterfalls pouring down the cliffs. Bring a waterproof jacket for the outer deck, and insect repellent for the sandflies at the terminal.