Milford Mariner - New Zealand

Overnight Cruise Premium Experience

Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

Spend the night aboard the iconic Milford Mariner and wake to the first light of dawn in one of the most breathtaking places on earth. The cruise has a relaxed pace, giving you time to soak in Milford Sound’s towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforest, and unique wildlife. After anchoring in a sheltered cove, you can join guided activities such as kayaking or exploring by tender craft for a closer look at the fiord. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner on board before settling into your private cabin. It’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty and tranquillity of Milford Sound.

The Milford Mariner sleeps up to 60 guests in a mix of private twin, double, and quad ensuite cabins.

Location

Departs from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal, located in the heart of Fiordland National Park.

Approximately 4 hours (288 km / 179 miles) by road from Queenstown, or 2 hours (118 km / 73 miles) from Te Anau.

Dining

Onboard Dining
The Milford Mariner offers hearty dining in a relaxed, social setting, surrounded by the dramatic scenery of Milford Sound. A generous buffet-style dinner is served in the evening, featuring a range of freshly prepared dishes to suit all tastes, followed by dessert and New Zealand cheeses. Breakfast the next morning includes both cooked and continental options, giving guests the perfect start to their day of exploration. Meals are enjoyed in the spacious dining saloon, where large windows allow uninterrupted views of the fiord’s waterfalls and towering cliffs.

Facilities & Guest Services

Hospitality & Convenience

  • Friendly onboard crew providing expert commentary and guidance

  • Licensed bar with a selection of New Zealand wines and beers

  • Indoor dining saloon with panoramic windows

  • Outdoor decks for wildlife viewing and photography

Technology & Lifestyle

  • Comfortable private cabins with en-suite bathrooms

  • Bedding, towels, and toiletries provided

  • Onboard PA system for commentary and updates

Comfort

  • Warm, cosy cabins designed for overnight cruising

  • Central heating for year-round comfort

  • Quiet anchorage overnight in a sheltered cove within Milford Sound

  • Kayaks and tender craft available for guided exploration

Accommodation Options

Private Twin Cabin

The Private Twin Cabins are compact yet comfortable, designed for overnight cruising in Milford Sound. Each features two single beds, a private ensuite bathroom with shower, toilet, and basin, plus all bedding and towels provided. Large porthole-style windows let in natural light, while heating ensures a cosy stay. These cabins offer a simple, practical retreat after a day of exploring the fiord.

Bed Options:

  • 2 Single beds

Private Double Cabin

The Private Double Cabins are ideal for couples, offering a snug sleeping space with a double bed and a private ensuite bathroom. Each cabin includes bedding, towels, heating, and storage for small luggage. A porthole or window provides views of the surrounding fiord, making these cabins a comfortable choice for a relaxed overnight experience on the water.

Bed Options:

  • 1 Double bed

Shared Quad Cabin

The Shared Quad Cabins are designed for families or groups of friends travelling together, with four single bunk-style beds in a compact space. Each cabin has its own private ensuite bathroom with shower, toilet, and basin, along with heating, bedding, and towels provided. These cabins offer a social and affordable option for groups wanting to experience an overnight cruise in Milford Sound.

Bed Options:

  • 4 Single bunk beds

Getting to the Milford Mariner from Queenstown

  • Self Drive – Around 4 hours each way (288 km / 179 miles); freedom to stop at lookouts along the Milford Road. A full day of alpine driving, and overnight parking at Milford Sound must be paid separately.

  • RealNZ Coach – Approximately 5 hours with commentary and scenic photo stops; comfortable, stress-free travel direct to the terminal.

  • Private Tour – About 4–5 hours depending on stops; a personal driver-guide offers flexibility, hidden gems, and a tailored journey before boarding.