Embark on an iconic journey through Milford Sound aboard Southern Discoveries, a proud family-run company whose red catamarans glide under towering waterfalls and cliffs—each bow deep enough that you might just feel the spray at Stirling Falls.
Celebrated as the original Milford Sound cruise operator since the 1950s, they combine scenic boat cruises with coach, flight and kayaking options, offering personalized journeys rooted in deep regional knowledge and a devotion to conservation and community stewardship.
Partner Information
- Location: Fiordland National Park, South Island, New Zealand
- Comfort Level: Spacious vessels with large indoor lounges, outdoor viewing decks, and flat bows for waterfall proximity
- Group Size: Cruises host up to 200 guests (varies by vessel); private charters available
- Dining & Drinks: Complimentary tea and coffee; option to pre-order buffet lunch or picnic; onboard licensed bar
- Community Connection: Long-established Fiordland operator; sponsors conservation projects like Sinbad Sanctuary and Tawaki penguin research while supporting local events and trusts
- Inclusions:
- Guided coach transport or flight transfers
- Free coffee and tea service
- Multi-language commentary
- Extras:
- Kayaking lift access and tours
- Underwater Observatory entry
- Hot showers at base
Things to Do
- Cruise Under Stirling Falls: Experience the thunderous cascade and refreshing spray from unique flat-bow boats that can safely approach the base of this iconic 155-meter waterfall
- Wildlife Encounters: Spot New Zealand fur seals basking on rocky outcrops, playful dolphins surfing the boat’s wake, and rare Fiordland crested penguins in their pristine habitat
- Kayak Among Towering Cliffs: Paddle silently through mirror-like waters beneath 1,200-meter cliffs, with safe boarding via specialized kayak lift systems and expert guide supervision
- Underwater Observatory Adventure: Descend 10 meters below the surface in a floating observatory to witness black coral, sea perch, and other marine life in their natural dark-water environment
- Coach Cruise Fly Combo: Journey through the dramatic landscapes of Milford Road by coach, then return via scenic flight over the Southern Alps for a complete Fiordland experience
- Expert Nature Commentary: Learn from local guides who share fascinating geological stories, Māori legends, and ecological insights through multi-language commentary systems
