Sightseeing cruises in Queenstown

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Sightseeing Cruises

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
Carry warm, weather-appropriate clothing and a waterproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly on the water.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.
Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.

Additional information

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.
Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Restrooms are available on board.
The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.
Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.

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Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr 45 mins - 6 hrs

Audio guide

Pickup available

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Cruise

What to bring

Bring your covered shoes/boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera.
Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
Bring a cash-free payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

Safety is a priority so the horse trekking experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft) and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb).

Accessibility

The Spirit of Queenstown is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier to board with prams or mobility aids. The TSS Earnslaw, with its heritage design, may present some challenges for those with limited mobility or prams.
The Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, so it may be challenging for wheelchair users. Those with impaired mobility should consider their comfort level before participating.
The restaurant for the BBQ dining is easily accessible, except for the short gravel path from the wharf, which may require assistance for some wheelchair users.
The horse trekking tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels, including first-time riders.

Additional information

The cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to poor weather, you will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.
The TSS Earnslaw is scheduled to undergo annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

1 hr 30 mins - 3 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as conditions can change rapidly in Milford Sound.
Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and it may be cold or wet.
Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks, especially if your experience includes a guided walk.

What’s not allowed

Smoking is not permitted on board the boat or during the guided walk.
Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
Drones and other aerial devices are not allowed in Milford Sound.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Safety is a priority, so the Milford Track guided walk is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years and over the age of 75 years.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
The guided walk and boat may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
This hike is suitable for people in moderate shape. You'll walk about 7 miles on uneven terrain, with some uphill sections. Expect to be on your feet for around 3.5 hours. Be prepared for wet weather and wear sturdy shoes.

Additional information

The experience operates in all weather conditions; cruises and walks may proceed in rain or shine.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Restroom facilities are available on board the boat.
The guided walk portion may involve uneven or slippery surfaces—participation is at your own risk.
Life jackets and safety briefings are provided before departure.
Photography is encouraged, but please be mindful of other guests and wildlife.
Mobile phone coverage is limited in Milford Sound.
Pack wisely for the trek. Carry essentials like a lightweight backpack, rain gear, quick-drying clothes, and trekking poles for added support.
The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

2 hrs - 7 hrs

Guided tour

Meals included

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Day Trips

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise

Pair aerial vistas with a small-group cruise for a faster, more immersive fiord escape.

Day out to: Milford Sound from Queenstown, with round-trip scenic flights and a 2-hour small-boat cruise.
You'll get: Round-trip transfers with hotel pickup, a 2-hour small-group Milford Sound cruise, and live commentary on board.
Milford Sound: Glide past sheer cliffs and waterfalls on a 2-hour cruise, with your small group soaking in Fiordland's dramatic scenery.
Scenic flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound: Admire sweeping views of mountains, valleys, and lakes as you fly between Queenstown and Milford Sound with live pilot commentary.
Upgrades: Choose round-trip scenic flights or coach out, flight back, and add reserved cruise seating and picnic lunch for extra comfort.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

4 hrs 30 mins - 13 hrs

Transfers available

Pickup available

Meals included

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Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience

What to bring

Bring your covered shoes/boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera.
Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
Bring a cash-free payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

Accessibility

The Spirit of Queenstown is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier to board with prams or mobility aids. The TSS Earnslaw, with its heritage design, may present some challenges for those with limited mobility or prams.
The restaurant for the BBQ dining is easily accessible, except for the short gravel path from the wharf, which may require assistance for some wheelchair users.

Additional information

The cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to poor weather, you will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.
The TSS Earnslaw and Spirit of Queenstown undergo yearly maintenance, during which an alternative vessel will be in service.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hrs 30 mins

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Sightseeing Cruises

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise

Full-day Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise with Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass journey.

Starting point: Manapouri, with check-in at the RealNZ Visitor Center before boarding.
Everything you get: Lake Manapouri cruise, coach transfer over Wilmot Pass through Fiordland rainforest, 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise, complimentary tea and coffee onboard, live nature and history commentary, wildlife viewing opportunities, multilingual interpretation sheets
Sights covered: Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, Doubtful Sound, Fiordland rainforest, and Deep Cove.
Why choose this: A seamless full-day experience showcasing Fiordland’s remote beauty, wildlife, and wilderness.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

7 hrs

Guided tour

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Day Trips

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, & Return Transfers

What to bring

ID: Bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking.
Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and outdoor activities.
Clothing: Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Essentials: Carry a refillable water bottle and any personal medications you may need.
Camera: Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Money: Bring cash or an EFTPOS or credit card for meals, souvenirs, and extras not covered by the ticket.

Accessibility

Wheelchair access: This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
Mobility needs: The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and boarding or disembarking from vehicles and boats.

What’s not allowed

Large bags: Large luggage and suitcases are not permitted on the coach or cruise.
Smoking: Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed on the coach or cruise vessel.
Substances: Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Additional information

Weather: The tour operates in all weather conditions, and the itinerary may be adjusted for safety or comfort.
Children: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Infants: Infant seats are available on request, so please inform the operator in advance if required.
Meals: Meals are not included unless specified in your ticket variant, and you may bring snacks or buy food at stops.
Facilities: Restroom breaks are provided during the journey, but facilities can be limited in remote areas.
Arrival time: Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure, as late arrivals may not be accommodated.
Duration: The full-day tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, including transfers; flight options include shorter flight sectors if selected.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

12 hrs - 13 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Walter Peak Farm Tour

What to bring

Bring your covered shoes/boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera.
Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
Bring a cash-free payment method (phone or card) to pay for meals and souvenirs not covered by the ticket. Both the vessels and Walter Peak are cashless.

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Accessibility

The Spirit of Queenstown is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier to board with prams or mobility aids. The TSS Earnslaw, with its heritage design, may present some challenges for those with limited mobility or prams.
The Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, so it may be challenging for wheelchair users. Those with impaired mobility should consider their comfort level before participating.

Additional information

The cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to poor weather, you will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.
Please note that the TSS Earnslaw is scheduled to undergo annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

3 hrs 30 mins

Guided tour

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Sightseeing Cruises

Overnight Milford Sound Cruise with Dinner & Activities

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Don’t forget personal toiletries and any necessary medications for your overnight stay.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the scenic views.
Bring non-slip walking shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, sweater/fleece jacket, change of clothes, sunscreen/sunglasses, insect repellent, and swimwear for this experience.
Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
Bring local currency for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed anywhere on the vessel.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Dangerous items, including sharp objects and flammable materials, are strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible. The vessel and some boarding areas may require navigating stairs and uneven surfaces.
Guests must inform the operator in advance or when booking for guests with limited mobility so that rooms may be assigned in proximity to the main areas.
Guests can provide their specific dietary requirements when making a booking.

Additional information

Check-in is required at least 20 minutes before departure; late arrivals may not be accommodated.
All guests must be aged 5 years or older to participate in the overnight cruise.
Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice—please inform the operator at least 48 hours before departure.
The cruise operates in most weather conditions, but may be canceled or rescheduled in the event of severe weather.
Overnight accommodation is provided in private cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
Complimentary tea and coffee are available on board.
Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase; a valid ID is required for alcohol consumption.
Luggage storage is limited—please bring only essential overnight items in a small bag.
The use of drones is not permitted on board or in the surrounding area.
Fares are per guest. Double and twin-share cabins require a minimum of 2 guests. A single occupancy option is available at a higher fare.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

Explore at your pace

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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Day Trips

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Return Transfers

Shorter travel, calmer crowds, the Te Anau advantage.

Everything you get: Return coach from Te Anau with expert driver-guide, early cruise slots to beat peak crowds, scenic stops at key viewpoints, live commentary, and 7-hour schedule that pairs well with glowworm cave visits.
Why choose this: Best for families and planners who want less time on the road and more time in Milford Sound. Starting closer means a smoother, calmer day with fewer travel hassles.
Upgrades: Opt for an intimate small-group tour and a small-boat boutique cruise for a more personal experience.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

Book now, pay later

8 hrs - 9 hrs

Guided tour

Transfers available

Pickup available

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