- Published on December 16, 2017
- // Updated on Mar 11, 2020
- // in New Zealand, Photo Essays
- // This post may contain affiliate links, read our disclaimer.
Milford Sound is regarded as one of the top destinations in the world, so while planning our South Island road trip, we didn’t think twice about booking a cruise on this popular fiord. We embarked aboard the Milford Mariner, operated by our hosts Real Journeys, on a spectacular trip across this remarkable fiord, surrounded by towering peaks, stunning waterfalls and the opportunity to see wildlife, truly a must do New Zealand experience.
Shaped by ancient glaciers over hundreds of thousands of years, Milford Sound has a rugged beauty stretching for 16km in length and opening out into the Tasman Sea. Our cruise with Real Journeys took us on a two-hour journey, passing impressive rock faces and right up to the magnificent waterfalls all around the fiord.
The route to Milford Sound alone is worth experiencing, with epic mountain roads, sweeping vistas, mirror like lakes and incredible forests, allow a few extra hours to stop along the way and take it all in.
There are several stunning view points and hiking trails to enjoy, and keep an eye out for the Kea, a cheeky bird who loves the rubber on your car!
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We boarded the Milford Mariner for the 2h 15 minute journey along the fjord. The ship is also used for overnight stays on Milford Sound. Find out more about the overnight cruise here
When it rains, hundreds of small waterfalls make their way down the steep cliffs. Apart from these temporary ones, there are 2 permanent falls, Lady Bowen and Stirling Falls. Lady Bowen Falls is the highest at 162m.
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The ships venture as close as possible to the Stirling Falls, so make sure you have a waterproof camera and rain jacket with you!
If you’re lucky, you’ll see some wildlife throughout Milford Sound. We encountered a pod of dolphins, fur seals, and one lonely penguin.
We were invited on the nature cruise by Real Journeys, however all opinions are our own and you will always read our genuine thoughts and experiences.
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Lies
Hi! I'm a Belgian travel blogger currently living in Vancouver, Canada after living in the UK for 7 years. I have a keen interest in responsible travel, volunteering and archaeology and I'm always on the lookout for new adventures around the world!
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- // Explore New Zealand, Photo Essays
12 Responses
Looks absolutely beautiful
It’s one of the most stunning places we’ve visited in New Zealand.
These photos are amazing! Great job!
<3
I tried to book this but it was already full, it looks wonderful. Stunning photos too.
I only just heard about Milford Sound 3 or so years ago, but it’s been on my to-see list ever since. Your photos are just outstanding. How exciting that you were able to see so much wildlife, too. 🙂 I can’t wait to make it to New Zealand!
This is on my bucket list! Hope to do a cruise there like you did! Awesome landscape!
Stunning photos. When I was there wether was a little bit moody but still had an amazing time.
Amazing landscapes and even better photography! It’s amazing to be surrounded by huge cliffs, rolling waterfalls and wildlife!
This post brings back memories. I traveled to New Zealand almost 10 years ago and also visited Milford Sound.
Really enjoyed your photo easy of Milford Sound. I visited. A couple of years back and loved it. You’re photos really leave me wanting to go back!
I loved this place a lot, despite the tricky weather! Your pictures bring a lot of memories back!
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