Top South Island Multi-day Cruises

Experience one of the South Island’s finest natural attractions on a Milford Sound cruise, boarding straight from the sound. A more intimate experience is guaranteed because the boat is only filled to half its capacity. Get up-close views of New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and Fiordland-crested penguins while enjoying complimentary coffee, tea, and biscuits as you listen to the skipper’s narration.

This Doubtful Sound overnight cruise takes you over Manapouri Lake to this South Island gem in the UNESCO-listed Fiordland National Park. Board the ‘Wanderer,’ a 3-mast motorized boat designed on a traditional scow, and cruise past soaring granite peaks in New Zealand’s second-largest fiord. Learn from an onboard nature guide about wildlife such as fur seals, penguins, and bottlenose dolphins. Then spend the night in a comfortable cabin, including a 3-course dinner and breakfast.

Travel from Queenstown to the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Milford Sound on an easy day trip. Enjoy live commentary along the way, and many scenic photo stops. At Milford Sound, don’t worry about waiting in lines as tickets are included. Admire views of waterfalls and Mitre Peak from your cruise. Refuel with a tasty picnic lunch in a scenic location. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from listed locations for added convenience.

A Milford Sound cruise is a must-do activity in southern New Zealand, but getting there independently can be stressful because of the rugged mountain roads. This full-day tour from Te Anau includes a hotel pickup and picnic lunch, so you don’t need to pack your own. Watch the views rather than the road by going with a guide and driver. See many spectacular sights along the way, including Mirror Lakes.

Enjoy mountain and lake views from a different angle when you cruise from Queenstown aboard the vintage “TSS Earnslaw” steamship or the modern “Spirit of Queenstown” catamaran across Lake Wakatipu to the Walter Peak High Country Farm. Refuel with a gourmet barbecue lunch featuring Central Otago specialties, salads, desserts, and local cheeses at the Colonel’s Homestead. Learn about local rural life during sheep-shearing and sheepdog demonstrations at the farm.

The deep waters, soaring cliffs, and thundering waterfalls of Milford Sound are spectacular from all angles, and this half-day tour by air and boat takes in all the highlights. Enjoy thrilling aerial views of the Fiordland National Park on a round-trip flight from Queenstown, and marvel at Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, and Mount Pembroke on a scenic Milford Sound cruise. Hotel pickup and drop-off, and lunch are included for a truly seamless experience.

Enjoy uninterrupted views of the mountain scenery without having to self-drive to Milford Sound from Queenstown in a glass-roofed coach. Your driver will provide commentary along the way, to keep you informed. At Milford Sound, embark on a cruise on the water, all the way out to the Tasman Sea. Relax and take in the views as you enjoy lunch on board, too.

Fiordland is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful destinations, but self-driving through the landscape of snow-capped mountains, towering waterfalls, and emerald greenery can be challenging—and distracting. Eliminate the hassle when you travel with a small group by coach from Queenstown. Pass Lake Te Anau, the South Island’s largest lake, and enter the hand-carved Homer Tunnel on your way to Milford Sound, where you relax on a scenic nature cruise.

It can be difficult to see all of Abel Tasman National Park if you’re pressed for time. Save some time and see some of the park’s many highlights on this full-day sailing tour along the coast. Sit back and relax on board without the strain of hiking through the park. Stop at beaches and islands along the way, with an hour-long stop at beautiful Anchorage Beach for a picnic lunch.

It can be difficult to fully appreciate Fiordland National Park when you’re hiking with a heavy pack. This easy-going morning or afternoon cruise takes the sweating and heavy breathing out of the equation. Cruise along Lake Te Anau in an elegant yacht and enjoy the views of the bush-covered mountains from the lake. Note that this tour is not wheelchair or stroller accessible and has some restrictions for limited mobility.

Experience the South Island without crowds or rigid schedules on this 7-day private loop tour from Christchurch. Travel by private vehicle with your own driver-guide, visiting Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Wanaka, Queenstown, Dunedin, and scenic coastal towns — all at your own pace. “To keep the tour fully flexible and personalized, accommodation and meals are not included. We’re happy to offer recommendations or assist with planning if needed.” 100% private tour — only your group Flexible itinerary and photo stops Door-to-door pickup and drop-off Local driver-guide knowledge Solomon, your experienced driver with over nine years in the transportation industry, ensures a friendly and professional experience tailored to families and small groups alike.

Explore the breathtaking off the beaten track landscapes of New Zealand on a three-day Overnight Milford Sound Tour via Walter Peak. Experience the iconic Earnslaw Steamship cruise, savor a BBQ lunch at Walter Peak, and journey through the stunning Von Valley to Te Anau. This exclusive tour for a small group of 10 travelers includes a Milford Sound cruise at quieter times, allowing for a more serene experience amidst the natural beauty. Enjoy comfortable 4-star accommodation and expert local guides who provide insights into the region's rich history and stunning scenery. - Three days of immersive exploration with premium transport - Includes two nights of lakefront 4-star hotel accommodation - Two buffet breakfasts and day one buffet lunch included - Small group size of 10 in our most spacious van ensures personalized attention - Additional options for glowworm caves and helicopter flights available