A Day in Paradise: Milford Sound Day Tour with Fiordland Jewel Lunch Cruise and Remarkable Scenic Tours

5 May

Tucked away in Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound—known in te reo Māori as Piopiotahi—is one of New Zealand’s most iconic and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Carved by ancient glaciers and flanked by towering cliffs, lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls, it’s easy to see why Rudyard Kipling called it the “eighth wonder of the world.” One of the best ways to experience this majestic fiord is on a day tour from Queenstown with Remarkable Scenic Tours, topped off with a luxury lunch cruise aboard the Fiordland Jewel.

The Journey to Milford Sound with Remarkable Scenic Tours

Setting off from Queenstown bright and early, the Milford Sound day tour with Remarkable Scenic Tours takes you through some of the South Island’s most picturesque alpine landscapes. Travelling in a comfortable European vehicle with a small group, guests enjoy a more personal and relaxed journey, complete with commentary from an experienced local guide.

The drive to Milford Sound is part of the adventure, with plenty of scenic stops along the way including the reflective Mirror Lakes, the majestic Eglinton Valley, and the engineering marvel of the Homer Tunnel. These photo opportunities offer not just a chance to stretch your legs but also to soak in the incredible surroundings at a leisurely pace. Remarkable Scenic Tours are known for going the extra mile—ensuring every moment is enjoyable, educational, and unhurried.

Aboard the Fiordland Jewel

On arrival in Milford Sound, guests board the Fiordland Jewel—an elegant, purpose-built catamaran designed for small-group cruising. With a maximum of 38 passengers, this vessel offers a comfortable and exclusive experience, far removed from the crowds of the larger boats.

The boat features a spacious indoor dining saloon, open-air decks and even a top-deck helipad that doubles as a viewing platform. Whether you're inside or outside, the panoramic views are nothing short of spectacular. This is luxury cruising with an intimate, Kiwi touch.

Fiordland Jewel’s Two-Course Lunch Cruise

Departing daily at 12:30pm (from November to April), the Fiordland Jewel’s two-hour lunch cruise is a highlight of the day. Prepared fresh onboard by the ship’s chef, the two-course plated lunch is crafted from seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re seated at the indoor tables or enjoying the fresh air from the outdoor picnic area, you’ll dine with uninterrupted views of the fiord.

As you cruise the length of Milford Sound, the skipper and crew share fascinating insights into the history, geology and ecology of this UNESCO World Heritage Area. Keep an eye out for fur seals basking on the rocks, pods of bottlenose dolphins gliding alongside the vessel, and if you're lucky, a rare Fiordland crested penguin or two.

Scenic Highlights of the Cruise

The Fiordland Jewel offers front-row views to several of Milford Sound’s most iconic features:

Mitre Peak – Standing at 1,692 metres, this sharply pointed mountain rises straight from the sea, providing a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop.
Stirling Falls – A stunning 146-metre waterfall that’s especially powerful after rainfall. The boat often edges close enough for a refreshing mist!
Lady Bowen Falls – One of the tallest permanent waterfalls in the fiord, supplying both hydro power and fresh water to the Milford Sound settlement.
The Tasman Sea – Weather permitting, the boat sails all the way to the mouth of the fiord, offering a glimpse of the wild ocean beyond.

Useful Info for Travellers

Duration: Around 13 hours return from Queenstown, including stops and the two-hour cruise.
Inclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, fully guided transport, scenic photo stops, and the Fiordland Jewel lunch cruise with a two-course meal.
Extras: A licensed bar onboard the cruise offers local Central Otago wines, Queenstown craft beers, and organic non-alcoholic drinks for purchase.

Tips for a Great Day Out

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, warm layers (even in summer), sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera.
Weather: Fiordland is one of the wettest places on Earth—and that’s a good thing! Rain enhances the waterfalls and creates an even more magical atmosphere.
Booking: This experience is popular, so it’s best to book in advance—especially during the summer months.

Final Thoughts

A Milford Sound day tour with Remarkable Scenic Tours, combined with the luxury of the Fiordland Jewel lunch cruise, is one of the finest ways to experience New Zealand’s wild and beautiful South Island. From the alpine drive through Fiordland National Park to the up-close encounters with nature on the water, every part of the day is thoughtfully curated.

This is more than just sightseeing—it’s an unforgettable Kiwi experience where the journey is just as special as the destination.

Chris Hansen