Milford Sound Helicopter and Cruise Tour: A Multi-View Fiordland Expedition
Experience Fiordland National Park from sky and water on a combined helicopter flight and Milford Sound cruise. This multi-view adventure offers unmatched panoramas and a rare alpine landing, revealing New Zealand’s raw wilderness in a single journey.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book early to secure preferred departure times
This popular tour fills quickly during peak seasons—reserving in advance ensures you get your ideal slot.
Dress in layers and waterproofs
Weather shifts rapidly in Fiordland; pack waterproof jackets and warm layers for comfort throughout the flight and cruise.
Bring binoculars and a zoom lens
Wildlife sightings like dolphins and penguins can be distant—gear up to catch every detail from the cruise deck.
Arrive 40 minutes before departure
On-site parking is limited; arriving early allows smooth check-in and briefing before the helicopter flight.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Alpine landing sites offer unmatched quiet and vast mountain views rarely accessible to visitors.
- •Look out for braided river patterns in the Dart and Rees Valleys from the helicopter, a unique glacial-landscape feature.
Wildlife
- •Fiordland crested penguins along the shoreline.
- •Bottlenose dolphins frequently seen surfacing near the cruise boat.
Conservation Note
Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site preserving native ecosystems; visitors are encouraged to minimize impact and respect wildlife habitats.
Milford Sound, known as Piopiotahi in Maori, carries indigenous legends tied to the piopio bird and has been shaped by glaciers over millions of years.
Photographer's Notes
- • Alpine landing plateau for panoramic mountain vistas.
- • Cruise deck near waterfalls for dramatic water shots.
- • Helicopter window seats for aerial perspectives of braided rivers.
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against alpine and fiord breezes during flight and on the water.
Camera with zoom lensEssential
Captures distant wildlife and sweeping landscapes in detail.
Comfortable shoesEssential
Suitable for walking short distances at landing sites and the cruise boat.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated throughout the five-hour tour is key to comfort.
Common Questions
How long is the entire Milford Sound Helicopter and Cruise tour?
The tour lasts about five hours, including helicopter flights, an alpine landing, and the two-hour Milford Sound cruise.
Is the tour suitable for children and infants?
Yes, infants under 15 kg must sit on a parent’s lap during helicopter flights; ear protection is available for young children.
What should I wear on the tour?
Dress in layers and waterproof clothing as the weather can change rapidly, especially on the cruise.
Are meals included in the tour?
No meals are included, but complimentary tea, coffee, and water are provided onboard the cruise.
Is the experience affected by weather?
Yes, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather conditions for safety.
Where does the tour depart from?
Departure and return points are in Queenstown, with customer parking and check-in at the helicopter base.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Queenstown, Otago
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; suitable for all levels as this is a flight and cruise experience.
Ready to Explore Queenstown?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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