New Zealand Self-Drive Milford Sound Cruise: Ultimate Guide & Travel Tips

We initially had no intention of visiting the fjords, as the photos we’d seen on social media didn’t seem particularly captivating. However, when we arrived in Te Anau, it started to rain, and rainy weather is perfect for exploring the fjords. With a “since we’re here” attitude, we decided to drive over and see this unique landscape, which is not found in China.

Along the way, there are numerous trails and viewpoints that are well worth stopping for! I’ll share more about them in a separate post! The drive took us 3.5 hours.

The journey begins with a scenic drive through dense, sun-dappled forests. As you approach the tunnel, the air becomes increasingly humid and chilly. After crossing a small bridge, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking scenes depicted in pictures four and five: rushing waterfalls, both large and small, cascading down steep cliffs as if they were falling from the clouds.

Near Monkey Creek, we encountered adorable kea (alpine parrots) that were playfully begging for food, even flying onto people’s cars and pecking at the window seals.

After passing through the tunnel, the number of waterfalls increases dramatically. The towering cliffs create an illusion of thousands of waterfalls pouring down from the top, reminiscent of the line from Li Bai’s poem, “I wonder if the Milky Way has fallen from the ninth heaven.”

🛳 Cruise:
Upon arriving at Fiordland National Park, you can choose a cruise to experience the fjords up close. We opted for RealNZ, which offers four types of boats:
1⃣ Sovereign
A spacious boat with extra-wide viewing windows and a top deck.
Offers an Asian-style buffet, Japanese bento, and Western meal boxes.

2⃣ Mariner
Vintage sailing style with two decks, serving light meals.
3⃣ Haven
Features scenic booths and a rooftop beer garden.
Coffee bar menu, coffee, and beer.
4⃣ Sinbad Premium
We chose this one. It’s a small, intimate boat with a 150-minute trip, accommodating fewer than 20 people, ensuring good privacy.

Each group gets their own table, and the experience includes champagne and a lunch. The boat stops for 20 minutes at a picturesque spot in the fjord, allowing for a leisurely meal, which was truly delightful.

❗️❗️ Note that RealNZ only has two departures: 10:00 AM and around 1:00 PM. During peak season, an additional departure at 3:00 PM is added. It’s advisable to buy tickets in advance and plan your time. We arrived at Milford Sound at 1:00 PM and spontaneously decided to take a cruise. We inquired at the RealNZ counter and, luckily, managed to catch the 1:00-1:30 PM boat.

Taking a boat tour allows you to fully appreciate the grandeur of the fjord landscape and experience the waterfalls up close, feeling the refreshing spray of water.

🧥 For the fjord trip, remember to stay warm and protect against the wind. It’s recommended to wear a three-in-one jacket and a woolen hat.