The stunning Fiordland National Park offers two distinct ways to explore its waterways. The Te Anau River jet boat tours combine speed with scenery, zipping past “Lord of the Rings” filming locations while spotting native wildlife. For a quieter option, intimate Milford Sound cruises provide champagne, local treats, and excellent photo opportunities on smaller vessels that navigate closer to waterfalls and seal colonies. Our favorite excursions pair expert local guides with small group sizes, particularly the boutique afternoon cruises that avoid the busy morning crowds. Let’s examine the best boat tours in Fiordland.
Key Points
- The Te Anau River Jet Boat Tour offers a thrilling 4-hour adventure with a jet boat ride, bike tour, and guided nature walk in Fiordland National Park.
- The Milford Sound Premium Cruise provides an intimate 2.5-hour experience with a champagne welcome, local canapés, and live commentary from an experienced guide.
- The tours offer breathtaking scenic highlights, including the stunning Lake Manapouri and the opportunity to spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and penguins.
- Customers consistently rate the tours 5 stars, praising the exceptional service, informative commentary, and personalized attention.
- Booking in advance is recommended to take advantage of discounts and secure a spot on the limited-capacity tours.
Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour With Local Guide
Kick off your Fiordland adventure with a thrilling jet boat and bike tour from Te Anau. This 4-hour experience lets you explore the stunning Waiau River and surrounding wilderness with a local guide.
Board a jet boat for a 1.25-hour adrenaline-fueled ride through the iconic Fiordland National Park, where you may spot trout and capture photos of the picturesque landscape featured in The Lord of the Rings.
Next, enjoy a short guided nature walk through lush beech forest before hopping on a bike for an 11km unguided ride along the Te Anau Lake2Lake Cycle Trail.
Gaze upon the breathtaking vistas of Lake Manapouri, widely regarded as New Zealand’s most beautiful lake. With provided gear like spray jackets and helmets, this tour is suitable for most fitness levels, though e-bikes are recommended for less experienced cyclists.
At $133.47 per person, it’s a thrilling way to learn about Fiordland’s natural splendor with the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Read our full review: Te Anau: River Jet Boat and Bike Ride Tour With Local Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Milford Sound: Premium Small Group Cruise With Canape Lunch
For a magical journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Milford Sound, consider the Premium Small Group Cruise with Canape Lunch.
This 2.5-hour cruise offers an intimate experience aboard the MV Sinbad, with a limited capacity to ensure a personalized tour. You’ll be greeted with champagne on arrival and served a selection of local curated canapes during the cruise, all while enjoying live commentary from an experienced nature guide.
The cruise provides opportunities to spot native wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and penguins, as well as close encounters with stunning waterfalls and sheer cliff faces.
With a 5-star rating based on 6 reviews, this cruise is praised for its excellent personalized service, informative commentary, and magical experience.
Book now and take advantage of the up to 10% discount, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Don’t forget to factor in parking fees and travel time, especially if you’re coming from Queenstown.
Read our full review: Milford Sound: Premium Small Group Cruise With Canape Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Fiordland National Park offers a variety of immersive cruises and tours. You can explore the stunning landscapes of Milford Sound on a premium small group cruise with a canapé lunch. Alternatively, you can combine a thrilling jet boat ride and a bike ride with a local guide in Te Anau. Whichever option you choose, you’re sure to be captivated by the breathtaking natural beauty of this magnificent region.