Private Milford Sound Tour from Queenstown
New Zealand Private Tours
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a fully guided private day tour from Queenstown. Travel in comfort, enjoy personalised commentary, and experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations at your own pace
The most popular way to experience Milford Sound from Queenstown, this private day tour combines spectacular sightseeing with personalised guiding. Travel in comfort with your own driver/guide, stopping at scenic highlights along the iconic Milford Road while learning about the region’s unique history, wildlife, and landscapes. Then, step aboard a boutique small-boat cruise to explore Milford Sound up close—away from the crowds
If you’d prefer to share the journey with a small group of fellow travellers, our sister company Remarkable Scenic Tours also offers a luxury Small Group Milford Sound Tour that delivers the same breathtaking scenery in a relaxed, social setting.
Tour/Cruise/Tour Highlights
Start Your Milford Sound Journey in Style
Your day begins with a friendly greeting from your private local guide at your Queenstown accommodation. Settle into our luxury European touring vehicle, designed for comfort, space, and panoramic views. The drive takes you through the peaceful farmlands of Southland and into the lakeside town of Te Anau, where we stop for refreshments and a stretch before continuing into Fiordland.
Explore the Wonders of Fiordland National Park
Entering the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park, prepare to be awestruck by dramatic alpine landscapes, ancient rainforest, and crystal-clear rivers. Travel along the famous Milford Road, stopping for scenic walks, breathtaking viewpoints, and a chance to spot New Zealand’s cheeky alpine parrot, the Kea. Your private guide will share stories of glacial formation, Māori history, and local legends as the journey unfolds.
Cruise Through the Heart of Milford Sound
Board a 2-hour Milford Sound nature cruise, where your experienced naturalist guide will bring this awe-inspiring fjord to life. Glide past towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls like Stirling Falls, and glacial peaks that plunge into the sea. Keep your eyes open for wildlife including bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and Fiordland crested penguins.The Return Journey
Relax on the Return Journey
After your cruise, rejoin your private guide and luxury vehicle for a relaxed return journey through the Southern Alps. Reflect on your incredible day as you travel back to Queenstown in comfort, arriving in the early evening.
Optional Scenic Flight Upgrade
Want to elevate your experience? Choose an optional scenic flight back to Queenstown for a jaw-dropping aerial view of Fiordland’s remote peaks, lakes, and valleys. This 40-minute flight offers a once-in-a-lifetime perspective and includes a return transfer to your accommodation.
Tour/Cruise/Tour Details
Transport: Private Driver/Guide 1 to 16 Guests
Length: 575Km (357 miles)
Driving time: 10 hours
Cruise time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Total time: 12.5 Hours
Locations along the way: Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Holyford Valley lookout, Falls Creek, Monkey Creek, Homer Tunnel
Option to fly back to Queenstown
Tour Costs
Private group: up-to 5 Guests: $2200 NZD not including cost of boat cruise.
Private group: 6 and 11 Guests : $2600 NZD not including cost of boat cruise.
Private group: 12 and 18 Guests : $3100 NZD not including cost of boat cruise.
Milford Sound 90 Minute Cruise including hot Buffett lunch : $230 NZD Per Person (larger boat)
Milford Sound Boat Cruise only: From $165 NZD Per Person
Luxury Milford Sound Boat Cruise with two course plated lunch : $349 NZD Per Person
Optional Return Scenic flight: $560 NZD Per Person
The Ultimate Luxury Milford Sound Tour Option
Experience the beauty of Fiordland in style with New Zealand Private Tours. This video showcases a private Milford Sound tour from Queenstown, travelling through spectacular alpine scenery before boarding the luxurious Fiordland Jewel for a boutique cruise through the iconic fiord. Glide past towering waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and lush rainforest while enjoying gourmet dining and personalised service. For those wanting to linger longer, there’s also the option to stay overnight on board and wake to the tranquillity of Milford Sound at sunrise — an unforgettable New Zealand experience.
Experience Milford Sound from Queenstown on a Private Overnight Tour
Discover the magic of Milford Sound on a private overnight tour from Queenstown — the most immersive and luxurious way to explore New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonder.
Travel with your personal guide along the stunning Milford Road, stopping for scenic photo opportunities and short walks through Fiordland National Park. Then, step aboard a boutique overnight cruise for an unforgettable journey deep into the heart of the fjord.
Spend the evening surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters. Enjoy kayaking or a tender boat excursion, soak in the top-deck hot tub, and indulge in gourmet cuisine prepared by an onboard chef. Wake up to the peaceful stillness of Milford Sound — a moment few travellers ever get to experience.
Whether you're after adventure, romance, or a deep connection with nature, this private overnight tour promises a once-in-a-lifetime escape into New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes.