Southland on New Zealand’s South Island is a haven for cruises and boat tours, thanks to its stunning fjords, towering waterfalls, and untouched wilderness. What sets Southland apart is the region’s dramatic landscapes, which you can experience from every angle — whether flying over peaks or cruising through tranquil waters. Among the options, we particularly love the blend of luxury flights and immersive cruise experiences that give you a true taste of Milford Sound’s grandeur. For example, the Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise offers a luxurious way to see the Sound in style, with guaranteed window seats and scenic flights that bring the landscape to life. You can also combine scenic drives, boat explorations, and even small-group adventures, all designed to maximize your experience of this spectacular region.
If you’re considering a trip to Southland, our list covers a variety of tours, from quick half-day jaunts to full-day explorations, ensuring there’s something for every travel style and schedule. Whether you want the thrill of flying or the intimacy of a small-group cruise, you’ll find options that highlight the best of Milford Sound and its surroundings.
1. Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise
At number 1, we have the Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise, which is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a combination of comfort, scenic beauty, and a touch of luxury. This tour combines two scenic flights from Queenstown, with guaranteed window seats for everyone, guaranteed to provide stunning views of the Southern Alps and the fiords. The flights are narrated by entertaining pilots, adding informative color to your aerial experience. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, a 2-hour nature cruise allows you to feel the scale of this natural wonder close up, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of waterfalls, towering cliffs, and playful seals.
One highlight is the complimentary shuttle service from central Queenstown, making this tour hassle-free. The itinerary includes several legs of flight and cruise, giving you a rundown of Milford Sound in just 4 hours. Many reviewers praise the smooth logistics and breathtaking scenery, calling it “the best way to experience Milford in style.” The value here is excellent for those who want to combine flying and cruising without sacrificing comfort.
Bottom Line: An ideal pick for travelers who want a seamless, luxurious experience with guaranteed window views and a quick, stunning trip.
2. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Flight
Ranking second, the From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Flight is perfect if you’re after a comprehensive, small-group adventure. This tour offers a scenic drive along the famed Milford Road, with multiple sightseeing stops and insightful commentary along the way. You’ll enjoy a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise with stops at the most spectacular spots—think waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and perhaps some fur seals sightseeing. The highlight is the scenic flight back to Queenstown, which provides a bird’s-eye perspective of untouched wilderness and glacial landscapes.
This tour is especially appealing for those wanting a well-rounded day, with stops and commentary enriching the experience. The small-group format ensures more personal attention, and the complimentary tea and coffee keeps you comfortable during the drive. Many reviews mention how the interactive commentary added depth to the trip, making it educational and fun.
Bottom Line: A great choice for travelers who want a detailed, immersive adventure with a mix of land, water, and air views, all in a manageable 9-hour window.
3. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Scenic Drive
Coming in third, the From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Scenic Drive offers a more relaxed, small-group experience focused on scenic vistas and intimate exploration. With a 12.5-hour schedule, this tour combines a classic alpine drive along Milford Road with a 2-hour cruise through Milford Sound. The itinerary includes frequent stops at waterfalls, viewpoints, and wildlife-spotting locations, making it ideal for those who love photography and detailed sightseeing.
The tour emphasizes local insights with guided commentary and a small-group setting that allows for questions and personalized attention. Many guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore at their own speed. The comprehensive nature of this tour makes it suited for travelers who want to really take their time and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those with a full day to dedicate to Milford Sound, especially if they enjoy a leisurely pace with plenty of stops and personal interaction.
4. Milford Sound Premium Day Tour and Cruise from Te Anau
Finally, at position 4, the Milford Sound Premium Day Tour from Te Anau offers a slightly different approach. Instead of starting in Queenstown, this tour departs from Te Anau, riding in a luxury coach with a glass rooftop that gives you a panoramic view of the landscape during the journey. This tour is especially good if you’re staying in or near Te Anau, or if you prefer a more exclusive experience.
The immersion in nature continues with a nature cruise that takes you past waterfalls, wildlife, and stunning vistas. The tour includes multiple photo stops along the way, perfect for snapping memories or just soaking in the scenery. Many reviews mention the comfortable coach and the informative commentary that adds context to the scenery. Although it’s slightly shorter at 7.5 hours, the focus on comfort and scenic beauty makes it a worthwhile option.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers in Te Anau wanting a high-quality, guided day trip with scenic driving and a memorable boat cruise.
How to Choose the Best Cruise or Boat Tour in Southland
Choosing between these tours depends on your priorities. If luxury and quick access are your goals, the Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Cruise offers a premium experience. If you prefer a more comprehensive, guided day with scenic stops, the Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise & Flight from Queenstown balances adventure with comfort. For those wanting a slower, more detailed exploration, the Milford Sound Cruise and Scenic Drive might suit your style best. Finally, if you’re based in Te Anau, the Milford Sound Premium Day Tour from Te Anau combines comfort with beautiful scenery, all within a manageable day.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel months, as these tours are popular and fill quickly. Consider your schedule, budget, and how much time you want to spend on land, air, or water when making your choice. For those seeking the best overall experience, combining scenic flights with a cruise often provides the most memorable views of Milford Sound’s rugged beauty.
Southland offers a variety of cruises and boat tours that showcase its spectacular landscapes in different ways. Whether you opt for the effortless luxury of a combined flight and cruise, the immersive charm of a small-group day trip, or the scenic comfort of a coach cruise, you’ll be sure to see some of the most breathtaking scenery New Zealand has to offer. Don’t forget to book early — these experiences often sell out during peak seasons. Now, get planning and prepare for a journey into some of the most stunning wilderness on the planet.