Milford Sound Scenic Cruise & Observatory

The beauty of Fiordland, situated on the south west of New Zealand's South Island is well known. It is a vast area of sheer mountain ranges, glaciated valleys, crystal clear lakes, turbulent rivers, pristine primitive rain forest and towering waterfalls; truly nature at its best. The natural values of the region have long been recognised with the formation of the Fiordland National Park and more recently World Heritage Area status. What is not so widely known, is that the stunning beauty above the water is also reproduced beneath the water.

Southern Discoveries also offer a Scenic Cruise and Observatory option where you will descend 10.4 metres below the surface to marvel at spectacular marine life. Located in Harrison Cove, you will view anemones, sponges, fish and rare red and black coral in their natural habitat.

Situated in the middle of the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, the Milford Deep Underwater Observatory lets everyone enjoy this special wolrd, in comfort and ease that previously had been the exclusive realm of divers. There are 11-legged sea stars, delicately shaped anemones and intriguing snakestars wrapped around the black corals. Spotted and banded perch and triplefins swim among tube worms, while sponges and underwater fauna grow outside the Observatory windows.

This remarkable environment has generated much interest. It is the home of the Brachiopod, a shellfish which exists in much the same form as they did 600 million years ago, and such oddities as the scarlet wrasse an amazing fish that changes its sex when needed!

Highlights

Milford Sound
Mitre Peak
Fiordland National Park
Waterfalls
Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

Inclusions

Underwater Observatory
Approx 2.5 hour tour

Times

Departs: Daily (times vary, depending on season) from Milford Sound Wharf, Milford Sound
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

Additional Information

Children: 0-3 years are free of charge. Children aged 4-14 years are charged at the child rate
Location: Driving to Milford Sound- the road to Milford Sound is one of the most scenic journeys in New Zealand. Allow 5 hours from Queenstown, 2 hours from Te Anau
Operated By: Southern Discoveries