Milford Sound Cruise: Waterfalls, Mitre Peak & Nature Views

Summary

Mitre Peak up close waterfalls spray and Fiordland mist on deck

You’ll stand beneath towering waterfalls, feel glacial spray on your cheeks, and hear real stories from locals as you cruise through Milford Sound’s wild beauty. With free tea or coffee and space to wander inside or out, you can soak up views of Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls without feeling crowded—just you, nature, and maybe a bit of laughter from new friends.

What’s the experience like?

We’d just found our seats inside when the skipper — I think his name was Jamie? — popped his head in and asked if anyone wanted to try the outside deck. “You’ll get wet, but it’s worth it,” he said with this grin that made me trust him immediately. I grabbed my tea (free, by the way) and stepped out. The air had that cold, mossy smell you only get in places where rain is almost a personality. A couple from Auckland were already out there, laughing as the wind whipped their hair sideways. Jamie pointed out Mitre Peak — honestly, it looked unreal, like someone had painted it straight onto the sky.

The catamaran felt roomy, not packed at all. I wandered between decks, sometimes ducking back in to warm up my hands around my mug. Our guide started talking about Bowen Falls and how it powers the whole tiny settlement here — I didn’t expect to care about hydroelectricity on a day trip to Milford Sound from Te Anau, but somehow it stuck with me. There’s something about hearing local stories while you’re actually looking at the place; it just lands differently.

Stirling Falls was wild — we got so close that spray hit my glasses (should’ve wiped them before taking photos). Some kid next to me shrieked when the water blew over us; everyone laughed, even people who’d been quiet until then. I tried saying “Sinbad Gully” in my best Kiwi accent and Li laughed so hard she almost dropped her phone. The whole thing felt less like a tour and more like being let in on some big secret Fiordland keeps for itself. Even now, I still think about that cold mist on my face and how small everything else seemed for a while.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Milford Sound Nature Cruise Experience

• Check in 15 minutes before departure
• Explore Fiordland National Park views
• Enjoy cruise with 360º viewing decks
• See Lady Bowen Falls waterfall
• View iconic Mitre Peak mountain
• Pass Sinbad Gully conservation area
• Experience Stirling Falls waterfall

Top questions

How long does the Milford Sound nature cruise last?

The cruise lasts up to 2 hours on board a premium catamaran.

Is lunch included in the Milford Sound cruise?

You can pre-order a picnic lunch or select departures offer a To Kai buffet; otherwise complimentary tea and coffee are provided.

Are there live guides or commentary during the cruise?

Yes, there is live commentary from an experienced skipper throughout the cruise.

Can children join the Milford Sound nature cruise?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; prams or strollers are allowed onboard.

Where do I park for the Milford Sound cruise?

You can park at Milford Sound carpark (10 min walk) or Deepwater Basin Carpark (30 min walk) to the terminal.

Is there an app for multilingual commentary?

Yes, download Southern Discoveries’ app from App Store or Google Play for multilingual audio commentary.

What main sights will I see during the cruise?

You’ll see Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully and Fiordland’s dramatic scenery.

Are service animals allowed on board?

Yes, service animals are permitted during the cruise.

What’s included

Your day includes up to two hours cruising through Milford Sound aboard a spacious catamaran with indoor cabins and outdoor decks; live commentary from your skipper; complimentary tea and coffee; use of a multilingual app for extra info; plus options to pre-order a picnic lunch or enjoy a buffet meal on selected departures before heading back ashore.