The Top 5 Lunch Experiences In Fiordland and Milford Sound

Fiordland and Milford Sound are famous for their jaw-dropping scenery, towering peaks, and waterfalls that plunge into deep fjords. But what really makes a trip here special is not just the views — it’s the food experiences that come with them. From relaxed cruises with a picnic to intimate luxury lunches onboard a boutique vessel, each offers a different way to enjoy a meal amid some of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. If we had to pick a favorite, the Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau deserves special mention. With its combination of ease, expert guides, and spectacular scenery, it’s a great way to make the most of your day.

In this guide, we’ll explore the five best lunch experiences in Fiordland and Milford Sound. Whether you’re after a full-day scenic adventure, a luxurious cruise, or a quick but memorable meal, there’s something here for every taste.

1. Premium Milford Sound Tour, Cruise & Lunch from Te Anau

This full-day tour from Te Anau offers a seamless way to enjoy Milford Sound without the stress of driving. Starting in the charming town of Te Anau, your day includes visits to iconic sights like the Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes, with plenty of photo stops. The highlight is a cruise on Milford Sound where a picnic lunch is served onboard. The cruise is a core part of the experience, giving you a close-up view of waterfalls, seals, and maybe even dolphins.

What makes this tour stand out is its driver-guide, who shares fascinating insights into the region’s geology and wildlife, making the scenery even more vivid. With a small group of like-minded travelers, the trip feels intimate, not rushed. The reviews are glowing, with guests praising the guide Steve for his friendliness and knowledge, and the scenic cruise for its breathtaking vistas. At around $185.55 per person, it offers excellent value considering the comprehensive itinerary and included cruise.

Bottom Line: Perfect for families and those who prefer a guided, relaxed experience with a memorable picnic lunch. The combination of stunning scenery and hassle-free logistics makes this a top pick.

2. Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch

This tour makes a long day manageable, offering a luxurious coach journey from Queenstown to Milford Sound. The glass-roofed vehicle ensures you get uninterrupted views of mountain panoramas without the worry of driving. En route, your guide provides commentary on the area’s history, geology, and wildlife, making the scenery come alive.

Once you arrive at Milford Sound, hop aboard a cruise that includes hot drinks and a delicious lunch. The cruise itself is a highlight, taking you past Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and Bowen Falls—some of the most iconic sights. The boutique atmosphere and smaller group size (about 15 people) create a feeling of exclusivity, and the cruise’s use of a small vessel means you can get closer to the waterfalls and wildlife.

Guests consistently praise the comfortable coach, the knowledgeable guide Greg, and the delicious buffet lunch onboard. For around $214.10 per person, it’s a longer but highly relaxed way to experience Milford Sound without the self-drive hassle.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a comfortable, guided day with top-notch views and a gourmet lunch, especially if you’re based in Queenstown.

3. Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Te Anau Stunning Views with Lunch

This option offers a comprehensive day trip starting from Te Anau, combining scenic coach travel with a cruise on Milford Sound. The trip is designed for those who want to learn more about the UNESCO World Heritage Site through live commentary, making it a more educational experience.

The journey takes you through the scenic Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes before arriving at Milford Sound, where a boat cruise takes you along the fjord, giving you an up-close look at waterfalls and wildlife. The cruise includes a lunch, and the vessel is small enough to provide an intimate experience, avoiding the crowds typical of larger tours.

Guests have raved about the knowledgeable guide Vaughan, who kept the long trip engaging with stories and humor. The tour is reasonably priced at around $183.07 and offers good value for those interested in a mix of scenery, wildlife, and cultural insights.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a well-rounded, informative experience with a focus on learning and scenic beauty.

4. Milford Sound Luxury Lunch Cruise onboard The Fiordland Jewel

If you’re looking for something more exclusive, this luxury lunch cruise onboard the Fiordland Jewel is a fantastic choice. It’s a 2-hour cruise that combines gourmet food with spectacular scenery, all in a boutique, intimate setting. The vessel is designed specifically to maximize views, with full sea vistas from both indoor lounges and outdoor decks.

The cruise includes a chef-prepared lunch that caters to dietary requirements and offers a relaxed atmosphere with fewer passengers—around 12 guests. The boat glides past Mitre Peak and Lady Bowen Falls while you enjoy your meal, making it feel more like a dining experience than just sightseeing.

Guests rate this as a 5-star experience, praising the delicious food, friendly staff, and the personalized service. Priced at $216.58 per person, it’s an investment in a truly memorable, upscale adventure.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a private, high-end meal with the best possible scenery in Milford Sound.

5. Premium Milford Sound Cruise Including Lunch

At around 2.5 hours, this cruise offers a compact yet luxurious way to see Milford Sound. It departs from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal and takes you through the fjord, with the skipper adjusting the route based on weather conditions.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to spot wildlife like dolphins, seals, and penguins, while enjoying a complimentary glass of champagne upon boarding. The cruise’s smaller size allows for a more personal experience, and the scenery is complemented by a locally sourced canape lunch.

Guests have praised the friendly crew and spectacular views, with many noting it’s a great option for a shorter trip that still offers plenty of memorable moments. At $185.55, it’s a good value for those short on time but wanting a premium experience.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick yet elegant Milford Sound experience with wildlife viewing and a touch of luxury.

How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Fiordland and Milford Sound

When selecting the best lunch experience, think about your priorities. If you want a full-day guided tour with picnic lunch, the Premium Milford Sound Tour from Te Anau offers excellent value. For those based in Queenstown who prefer comfort and a gourmet meal, the Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown is a top pick.

If your focus is on an educational, scenic journey with a quick cruise, the Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Te Anau fits the bill. For a luxury, intimate dining experience, the Fiordland Jewel luxury lunch cruise is unbeatable. And if you want a shorter, wildlife-focused cruise with champagne, the Premium Milford Sound Cruise Including Lunch offers quick elegance.

Consider your budget, time constraints, and how much you value personal service or educational commentary. Booking early is wise, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.

Final Thoughts

Fiordland and Milford Sound are some of the most breathtaking places in New Zealand — and enjoying lunch here can be as memorable as the scenery. Whether you choose a full-day guided tour with picnic lunch, an upscale small cruise, or a comfortable coach journey with onboard dining, each offers a different way to savor the landscape. For those after value and convenience, the Premium Milford Sound Tour from Te Anau is hard to beat. For a more luxurious, intimate experience, the Fiordland Jewel cruise is second to none.

No matter which option you pick, remember to book early—these experiences sell out quickly. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy some of the most stunning scenery and delicious food that New Zealand has to offer.