Name: Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch
SKU: 3960P16
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.7 (683 reviews)

WizardTrip

Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch

4.7(683)· Queenstown· By Southern Discoveries Watch the video

Free cancellationLikely to sell out

From

€196per person

1 to 30 travelers per booking.

Time

1 × Adult × €196€196

Total€196

About the activity

Experience Milford Sound from Queenstown with ease. Our premium coaches handle the driving, offering panoramic views through large windows and glass roofs, complete with USB charging. Your guide will share local history and ecological insights, with stops for photos. Enjoy our free multilingual commentary app, available on coach and cruise in eight languages. Arrive at Milford Sound refreshed for your cruise. Prepare for breathtaking views of waterfalls and cliffs. Our Nature Cruise offers options for a pre-ordered picnic lunch or the To Kai buffet on select departures. This tour includes all transportation, from Queenstown to Milford Sound and your cruise connection. Simply relax and enjoy the journey.

What's included

✓Multilingual commentary app available for download (App Store & Google Play - search Southern Discoveries)
✓Informative commentary provided by your local coach driver
✓Round-trip transportation from Queenstown to Milford Sound on a premium glass-roof coach
✓USB charging ports available on the coach
✓Milford Sound Nature Cruise (up to 2 hours)
✓Complimentary tea and coffee served onboard the cruise
✓Opportunity to spot diverse wildlife during the cruise
✓Freshly prepared lunch

What is not included

✕Alcoholic beverages (available for purchase)
✕The operator does not provide appropriate child restraints; these must be supplied by the passenger.

Itinerary

1
Coach Pick-up
6:30 AM: Coach pick-up from Southern Discoveries Visitor Centre (if 6:30 AM tour selected) 7:00 AM: Coach pick-up from Southern Discoveries Visitor Centre (if 7:00 AM tour selected) Travel in a premium coach featuring reclining seats, extra legroom, air-conditioning, USB charging ports, and an onboard toilet. An experienced local driver provides engaging commentary and points out short walks and photo opportunities along Milford Road. The coach connects seamlessly with your Milford Sound Cruise. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee onboard.
· Non-stop passage
2
Queenstown
Depart from Queenstown, situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu on the South Island. You'll travel with Milford Sound's original cruise operator, Southern Discoveries, on a premium, low-emission coach. Enjoy a delicious international-style buffet onboard your cruise as you discover the native wildlife, towering waterfalls, and majestic mountains of Milford Sound.
· 15 min
3
Te Anau
Take a short break in Te Anau, a gateway town to Fiordland National Park. Known for its trout fishing and as a home to the endangered takahē bird, it's a perfect spot to stretch your legs and grab a coffee during the journey.
· 30 min
4
Eglinton Valley
Admire the stunning Eglinton Valley, a glaciated landscape with steep sides and a flat floor. The valley, between half a kilometer and two kilometers wide, features a riverbed constantly reshaped by the Eglinton River. This is a notable stop on your way to Milford Sound.
· 15 min
5
Lake Gunn
Pass by Lake Gunn, a strikingly beautiful lake located in the South Island of New Zealand.
· Non-stop passage
6
Mirror Lakes Walk
Enjoy a short, easy walk at Mirror Lakes, weather permitting. Admire the stunning reflections of the Earl Mountains in the small lakes along the Milford Road.
· 10 min
7
Cleddau River
Observe the beautiful Cleddau River as it flows into Milford Sound. You will see various parts of this river along the Milford Sound road.
· Non-stop passage
8
Monkey Creek
Stop at Monkey Creek for great views of the upper Hollyford Valley and to refill your water bottle from a glacier-fed spring. Keep an eye out for the friendly Keas, a native alpine parrot.
· 10 min
9
Homer Tunnel
Experience the Homer Tunnel, a 1.2-kilometer-long, unlined road tunnel at an altitude of 945 meters. Completed in 1953, it provides access through the rock to Milford Sound and features traffic lights to manage flow. This is an incredible part of the Milford Road journey.
· Non-stop passage
10
The Chasm Walk
If weather and time allow, take a 20-minute walk at The Chasm. Discover dramatic views of a rock chasm and waterfalls created by the Cleddau River. This easy walk follows a well-maintained trail.
· 20 min
11
Milford Sound
Explore Milford Sound, a fiord known for the towering Mitre Peak, rainforests, and waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen Falls. The fiord is home to fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. The Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory offers views of rare black coral. Southern Discoveries cruises are the ideal way to experience this natural wonder.
· 2 h
12
Mitre Peak
Admire Mitre Peak, a dramatically beautiful mountain on the shore of Milford Sound and one of New Zealand's most photographed peaks.
· Non-stop passage
13
Bowen Falls
See Lady Bowen Falls, Milford's highest waterfall, plunging 162 meters. It provides electricity for the Milford Sound township and is a source of water for the settlement.
· Non-stop passage
14
Sinbad Gully
Discover Sinbad Gully, nestled behind Mitre Peak. Characterized by steep, glacially carved walls, it has slowed pest invasion, preserving unique native species. Southern Discoveries is a partner in the Sinbad Sanctuary Project, aiming to make this valley a haven for native wildlife.
· Non-stop passage
15
Stirling Falls
Witness Stirling Falls, Milford's second-highest waterfall at 151 meters. This is the waterfall famously featured in the movie 'Wolverine'. Boats can get close enough to feel the spray from the glacial water.
· Non-stop passage
16
Freshwater Basin
Enjoy the scenery at Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound.
· 15 min· Admission included

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper tickets are accepted. One ticket is required per booking.

Meeting point and return

Please check in at the Southern Discoveries Visitor Centre, located at 110 Beach Street, Queenstown. Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

* The operator does not provide appropriate child restraints. Passengers must supply their own; failure to do so may result in denied boarding.

* Please be at your designated pick-up location at least 15 minutes prior to departure.

* If you booked before November 24th, 2022, you will receive a picnic lunch instead of a buffet. Upgrades to a buffet lunch are available at an additional cost during check-in.

* For smaller groups, a more personalized experience may be provided using a smaller vehicle that may not feature a glass roof.

Meeting point

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Infants and small children can be accommodated in prams or strollers.
Suitable for all levels of physical fitness.
Please state your country of origin when booking.
The tour operates in all weather conditions; please dress appropriately.
Sunscreen and insect repellent are recommended.
The operator does not provide appropriate child restraints. Passengers must supply their own; failure to do so may result in denied boarding.
Please ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Activity options

7:00 AM Departure with Buffet
7:00 AM Departure with Buffet

Duration

12 h 30

How to prepare for your experience

Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting.
Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Experience the majesty of Milford Sound on a premium coach and cruise tour from Queenstown, complete with lunch and insightful commentary.

Cancellation conditions

For a full refund, cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 3960P16

Activity offered by Southern Discoveries via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Tourists visiting Queenstown
Nature lovers
Photography enthusiasts
Families

Activity essentials

Scenic coach journey with glass roof and panoramic windows
Informative commentary from local drivers
Stunning Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Opportunity to see wildlife like seals and dolphins
Includes lunch onboard the cruise
Multilingual commentary app available

Queenstown: good to know

Population: 29,000 (2023)
Currency: New Zealand dollar
Official languages: Māori, English
Driving: on the left
Power plugs: I · 230 V
Emergency number: 111
Capital city: Wellington

Average temperatures

11°Jan
11°Feb
9°Mar
6°Apr
3°May
1°Jun
0°Jul
1°Aug
3°Sept
5°Oct
7°Nov
10°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the tour?

The tour duration is 12 hours and 30 minutes.

What languages are available for commentary?

Commentary is available in English (guide) and audio in German, Portuguese, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, French, and Spanish.

Is lunch included?

Yes, a freshly prepared lunch is included. Options for picnic lunch or buffet are available depending on departure and booking date.

What should I bring?

Sunscreen, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for changeable weather are recommended. If traveling with young children, ensure you bring appropriate child restraints.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?

Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions.

Reviews

4.74.7(683)

5 stars

539

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Viator review
First class operation. ...
Rachel_M, October 2026
First class operation. Stan, our bus driver, was funny and provided a lot of insight. Highly recommend the buffet on the boat as well.
★★★★★Viator review
Milford Sound amazing in the rain with waterfalls galore!
mkimovecgrutsch, October 2026
Great tour leader with lots of info! Amazing Milford Sound in the rain, best time to go to see hundreds of waterfalls !
★★★★★Viator review
Wonderful experience, highly recommend .
Tracey_O, September 2026
Southern discoveries were amazing, went above and beyond. We got a complementary taxi to and from our lodge. Keith the driver/ tour guide was exceptional with his knowledge. He made the long journey fun. Nothing was a problem. Milford was amazing, even thought the weather rainy. Would highly recommend. Thank you!
★★★★★Viator review
Milford Sounds Experience
Paul_L, September 2026
Breathtaking scenery. A well organized day. Yoda was our driver and was fantastic with the perfect amount of interesting commentary. The bus was so beautiful, very well maintained and the glass top is just genious. Perfect number of stops. Highly recommend. Four stars instead of five as the only let down was Southern Stars, the cruise operator. They really have too many on the boat in my opinion. Especially since there is a buffet lunch and by the time you wait in the long buffet line then fight for a table and seat to eat your lunch at, the cruise is well underway and you have missed some of it. I think the cruise operator should not take so many people.
★★★★★Viator review
Must do activity!!
Sudeep_S, September 2026
Milford sounds is a must do activity. The cruise was awesome-would have been more beautiful if it was actually raining. We actually sighted a group of 6-7 dolphins during our cruise. Food provided on board was extremely satisfying too-good varieties of option with unlimited refills if you choose the buffet lunch option. The drive takes up most of the time; cruise is roughly around 2 hours only.

26 activities · New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand, has 26 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Wanaka, Fiordland & Milford Sound.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Queenstown

26 in the catalogue

Free cancellation

Milford Sound Day Trip from Queenstown

from €165★ 4.7

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Queenstown Shotover River White Water Rafting

from €155★ 4.8

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Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight

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from €444★ 4.8

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Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views

from €160★ 4.7

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from €129★ 4.9

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from €72★ 4.6

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Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown

from €98★ 4.9

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Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown

from €113★ 4.9

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Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise, 90 Minutes

from €41★ 4.8

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Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Experience

from €170★ 4.8

All activities · Queenstown · 26

02Complete your day

More to do in Queenstown

2 activities

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NZONE Skydive Queenstown

from €196★ 4.7

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Milford Sound Flight and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

from €464★ 4.9

03On the water

Boats & cruises in Queenstown

3 activities

Top pick

Milford Sound Cruise with Round-Trip Flights from Queenstown

from €444★ 4.8

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Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

from €72★ 4.6

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Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise, 90 Minutes

from €41★ 4.8

04In the air

Planes & helicopters in Queenstown

3 activities

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Milford Sound Flight and Cruise from Queenstown (Lunch Included)

from €496★ 5.0

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Milford Sound Flight & Cruise Day Trip from Queenstown

from €440★ 5.0

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Milford Sound Flight and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

from €464★ 4.9

05Categories

Guided tours in Queenstown

6 activities

Free cancellation

Milford Sound Day Trip from Queenstown

from €165★ 4.7

Selling fast

Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight

from €515★ 4.9

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Glenorchy & Paradise Half-Day Scenic Tour from Queenstown

from €98★ 4.9

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Lord of the Rings Scenic Half Day Tour from Queenstown

from €113★ 4.9

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from €150★ 4.9

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from €145★ 5.0

06Categories

Sports & adventure in Queenstown

4 activities

Top pick

Queenstown Shotover River White Water Rafting

from €155★ 4.8

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Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown

from €265★ 4.8

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Queenstown Half Day Canyoning Adventure

from €129★ 4.9

07Categories

Bus tours in Queenstown

3 activities

Selling fast

Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views

from €160★ 4.7

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Milford Sound Coach and Cruise Tour from Queenstown

from €142★ 4.7

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Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch

from €196★ 4.7

08Explore nearby

Nearby cities

2 cities

Wanaka

Fiordland & Milford Sound

Frequently asked questions about Queenstown

What is there to do in Queenstown?

Queenstown has 26 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Milford Sound Day Trip from Queenstown », « Queenstown Shotover River White Water Rafting », « Milford Sound Small Group Tour from Queenstown with Scenic Flight ».

What are the top-rated activities in Queenstown?

According to traveller reviews: « Award Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries » (5.0/5, 714 reviews) ; « Milford Sound Flight & Cruise Day Trip from Queenstown » (5.0/5, 754 reviews) ; « Milford Sound Flight and Cruise from Queenstown (Lunch Included) » (5.0/5, 708 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Queenstown for free?

Usually, yes: 24 of the 24 most popular activities in Queenstown offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.

What is there to visit near Queenstown?

Close to Queenstown: Wanaka, Fiordland & Milford Sound.