Cruise Milford Sound New Zealand for Magnificent Vistas

Maori legend credits mason god Tu Te Raki Whanoa with sculpting one this sharply defined natural jewel among New Zealand tours using a magical adze and powerful incantations. Whether it was Maori symbols of deity or rivers of ice and other geological events that formed this spectacular sheer carving, the grandness of cliffs jutting upward from the ocean is nothing less than breathtaking.

Over geological time, rock compressed in continental collisions created exceptional magnificence at Milford Sound New Zealand. This is by far the best known of the fiords that make up stunning Fiordland National Park, probably because it’s the only one that you can drive to and from on your New Zealand tour.

The journey to reach Milford Sound, New Zealand is as incredible as the geological wonder itself. The Milford Road, the sole access route in existence among 14 fiords comprising the national park, features a stunning alpine scenic drive through the landscape’s sheer scale. This sealed road (make sure to have a full tank of gas!) spans 74 miles from Te Anau to the sound on a minimum 2-hour drive. Factor extra time for great photo opportunities.

Another unique feature at Milford Sound, New Zealand is its fascinating underwater world. Life teems at depths of 100 to 450 meters below the tide line, and Milford Deep Underwater Observatory and guided dive tours provide rare sights of species that normally dwell only in deep waters. This is due to a fresh water layer that “floats” atop seawater, filtering light that allows the deep sea creatures to live close to the surface.

A viewing chamber located over 10 meters below sea level affords an opportunity to observe vibrant underwater community existence, including rare black and red coral species, in natural habitat.

For more up close and personal observation, diving charters feature amazing marine life viewing with excess of 40-meter visibility. These dives offer unusual opportunity to experience deep water environment in less than 20-meter depths because of tannin-stained freshwater “floating” above the clearer seawater surface. Besides the same rare corals visible at the underwater observatory, divers will spot spiny-sea dragons, spiny spotted dogsharks, and other species.

Milford Sound, New Zealand track and trails offer land exploration, but cruises through the sound’s full length past waterfalls against sheer rock walls and Mitre Peak highlight the best way to experience this fiord. Three daytime cruises include a buffet, picnic, obento and rock lobster lunch and an Underwater Observatory option.

Scenic Cruises feature narrated full length rides with excellent viewing opportunities. Nature Cruises explore the scenery and wildlife in specially crafted vessels narrated by expert nature guides. Small Boat Cruises offer relaxed, personalized passages for close viewing of Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforest, and frequent wildlife sightings.

Overnight New Zealand cruises offer a special Milford Sound, New Zealand dinner, bed and breakfast and nature exploration experience. Observation lounge, full bar, private cabins with bathrooms or bunk style accommodations are available on board.

Milford Mariner Cruise goes out to the Tasman Sea before anchoring for the night at Harrison Cove, where the Underwater Observatory is an option. Cruisers can also explore by tender craft and kayaks.

Milford Wanderer Cruise is unique in its wildlife viewing opportunities and return under sail through the shallows before docking at Harrison Cove, and offers the same options as the Mariner Cruise.

The small MV Friendship Cruise vessel passes the full length of the sound and anchors overnight at Deepwater Basin, offering kayaking around sheltered bays, tender craft shuttle to the shore, and a barbecue meal.

Cruise around the sound on your New Zealand vacation and see why Milford Sound, New Zealand really rocks!