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South PacificSouth Pacific - Australia

Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port

Cruise Milford Sound
Cruise Milford Sound is a stunningly beautiful natural wonder located in the South Island of New Zealand.

Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#1
of 318 ports in the South Pacific
Today · high / low
59° / 27°
September normals
Cruise Milford Sound cruise port
South Pacific - Australia
Cruise Milford Sound
// Cruise Milford Sound cruise port overview

The cruise port in Cruise Milford Sound,
explained

Lat: 44.6°SLong: 167.9°ETimezone: Pacific/AucklandINTN code: MFN

Cruise Milford Sound is a stunningly beautiful natural wonder located in the South Island of New Zealand. It is a fiord, or a long, narrow inlet of the sea between steep cliffs, created by glaciers during the ice age.

The fiord is surrounded by lush rainforest, towering mountains, and cascading waterfalls. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including fur seals, penguins, dolphins, and whales.

Cruise Milford Sound offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area by boat, kayak, or on foot. The boat tours provide a unique perspective of the fiord, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the stunning scenery.

Kayaking is a great way to explore the area and get a different view of the fiord. On foot, visitors can explore the shoreline and take in the breathtaking views.

Cruise Milford Sound is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of New Zealand's South Island.

Ships visiting
6 lines
8 ships call at Cruise Milford Sound
Peak passenger day
7,559
cruise passengers ashore
Excursions from
$650
per person · 1 tours
Most ships dock at
8:00 AM
arrival for 45% of calls
Average port time
1h
alongside, typical call
Excursions in Cruise Milford Sound start at $650.
Browse Cruise Milford Sound excursions
// Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Deals

Price drops on cruises to Cruise Milford Sound

111 cruises stop here in Cruise Milford Sound during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Cruise Milford Sound cruise's 90-day average.

Prices refreshed daily
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge cruise ship
38% offsuite
Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Edge, 12-night cruise departing Jan 25, 2027

Jan 25, 2027 · 12 nights
from: Auckland
$653/ night
$7,835 total, 38% off was $12,560 avg
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge cruise ship
35% offsuite
Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Edge, 11-night cruise departing Jan 14, 2027

Jan 14, 2027 · 11 nights
from: Sydney
$699/ night
$7,690 total, 35% off was $11,859 avg
Azamara Pursuit
Azamara Pursuit cruise ship
34% offoceanview
Azamara Cruise Line

Azamara Pursuit, 16-night cruise departing Dec 19, 2026

Dec 19, 2026 · 16 nights
from: Auckland
$268/ night
$4,289 total, 34% off was $6,500 avg
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge cruise ship
28% offsuite
Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Edge, 10-night cruise departing Nov 11, 2027

Nov 11, 2027 · 10 nights
from: Sydney
$569/ night
$5,688 total, 28% off was $7,878 avg
Norwegian Spirit
Norwegian Spirit cruise ship
26% offsuite
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Spirit, 11-night cruise departing Jan 25, 2027

Jan 25, 2027 · 11 nights
from: Sydney
$997/ night
$10,969 total, 26% off was $14,799 avg
Riviera
Riviera cruise ship
24% offsuite
Oceania Cruise Line

Riviera, 14-night cruise departing Feb 21, 2027

Feb 21, 2027 · 14 nights
from: Auckland
$786/ night
$10,999 total, 24% off was $14,494 avg
Celebrity Edge
Celebrity Edge cruise ship
21% offsuite
Celebrity Cruise Line

Celebrity Edge, 10-night cruise departing Nov 21, 2027

Nov 21, 2027 · 10 nights
from: Auckland
$597/ night
$5,974 total, 21% off was $7,579 avg
Norwegian Spirit
Norwegian Spirit cruise ship
21% offoceanview
Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Spirit, 10-night cruise departing Mar 10, 2027

Mar 10, 2027 · 10 nights
from: Sydney
$170/ night
$1,699 total, 21% off was $2,146 avg
// Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port location

Where is Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port?

Cruise Milford Sound is located in the Fiordland National Park in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at the head of the Milford Sound, a spectacular fiord surrounded by steep cliffs and lush rainforest. The cruise port is located at the end of the Milford Road, a scenic drive that takes visitors through the stunning landscapes of the Fiordland National Park. The cruise port is also close to the Milford Sound Visitor Centre, which offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors.

General location
South Pacific
Category
South Pacific - Australia
Coordinates
44.64°S, 167.90°E
Time zone
Pacific/Auckland
Cruise port · 44.64°S, 167.90°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Cruise Milford Sound cruise port guide

What to do in Cruise Milford Sound

A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.

Your day ashore
You'll have about 1 hour in Cruise Milford Sound. Most ships dock around 8:00 AM.
Median across 20 scheduled calls

Ways to spend the day

3 themes
Theme 1

Kayaking

Kayaking is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Milford Sound. It is a great way to explore the area and get up close to the stunning scenery. Kayaking is suitable for all levels of experience, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the area. There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, such as seals, dolphins, and penguins.

Theme 2

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Milford Sound. It is a great way to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. Fishing is suitable for all levels of experience, and guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the area. There are plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish, such as salmon, trout, and snapper.

Theme 3

Hiking

Hiking is a great way to explore the beauty of Milford Sound. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. Hiking is a great way to get up close to the stunning scenery and spot wildlife. There are also plenty of opportunities to take in the views from the top of the mountains. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the area.

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port beaches

3 in our guide
G
Gemstone Beach (illustrative photo)

Gemstone Beach

Gemstone Beach is a stunning beach located near Milford Sound cruise port. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a great spot for wildlife watching, as it is home to a variety of native birds and other animals. The beach is also known for its abundance of gemstones, which can be found in the sand and along the shoreline.

S
Sandfly Bay (illustrative photo)

Sandfly Bay

Sandfly Bay is a beautiful beach located near Milford Sound cruise port. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a great spot for wildlife watching, as it is home to a variety of native birds and other animals. The beach is also known for its large population of sandflies, hence its name.

M
Monkey Beach (illustrative photo)

Monkey Beach

Monkey Beach is a stunning beach located near Milford Sound cruise port. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. It is also a great spot for wildlife watching, as it is home to a variety of native birds and other animals.

// Cruise Milford Sound fun facts

The Mitre Peak

The Mitre Peak is one of the most iconic landmarks of Milford Sound. It is a 1,692-meter tall mountain that is shaped like a bishop's mitre. It is the highest peak in the area and is visible from many points in the sound. It is a popular spot for photographers and is a great place to take in the stunning views of the sound.

The Fiordland Crested Penguin

The Fiordland Crested Penguin is a species of penguin that is native to New Zealand and can be seen in Milford Sound. It is the rarest of the crested penguins and is easily identified by its yellow crest. It is also the only crested penguin that breeds on the mainland of New Zealand. It is a threatened species and is protected by the Department of Conservation.

The Underwater Observatory

The Underwater Observatory is a unique attraction in Milford Sound. It is located in Harrison Cove and is the only underwater observatory in New Zealand. Visitors can take a glass-bottomed boat tour and explore the depths of the sound. They can observe the marine life, including black coral, sponges, and anemones, from the comfort of the boat. It is a great way to learn about the unique marine life of the sound.

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port shopping

3 in our guide
M
Milford Sound Souvenir Shop (illustrative photo)

Milford Sound Souvenir Shop

Milford Sound Souvenir Shop is the perfect place to find unique and memorable souvenirs from your cruise. Located right at the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from postcards and magnets to t-shirts and hats. They also have a great selection of local art and crafts, as well as books and DVDs about the area. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.

M
Milford Sound Gift Shop (illustrative photo)

Milford Sound Gift Shop

Milford Sound Gift Shop is the perfect place to find unique and memorable souvenirs from your cruise. Located just a short walk from the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from postcards and magnets to t-shirts and hats. They also have a great selection of local art and crafts, as well as books and DVDs about the area. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.

M
Milford Sound Souvenirs and Gifts (illustrative photo)

Milford Sound Souvenirs and Gifts

Milford Sound Souvenirs and Gifts is the perfect place to find unique and memorable souvenirs from your cruise. Located just a few minutes from the cruise port, this shop offers a wide selection of items, from postcards and magnets to t-shirts and hats. They also have a great selection of local art and crafts, as well as books and DVDs about the area. The friendly staff are always happy to help you find the perfect souvenir to take home with you.

// Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port Terminals

Which Cruise Milford Sound cruise terminal will your ship use?

Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.

3 piers in Cruise Milford Sound
Pier 1 of 3

Deep Water Basin

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Deep Water Basin is the main cruise ship terminal in Milford Sound. It is located at the head of the fiord, and is the starting point for most of the cruises that depart from Milford Sound. The terminal is equipped with a range of amenities, including a cafe, restrooms, and a gift shop. It is also the main point of access for visitors to the Milford Sound Nature Cruise.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Deep Water Basin)
Pier 2 of 3

Doubtful Sound Cruise Terminal

Doubtful Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Doubtful Sound Cruise Terminal is the third major cruise ship terminal in Milford Sound. It is located at the end of the fiord, and is the starting point for some of the cruises that depart from Milford Sound. The terminal is equipped with a range of amenities, including a cafe, restrooms, and a gift shop. It is also the main point of access for visitors to the Doubtful Sound Nature Cruise.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Doubtful Sound Cruise Terminal)
Pier 3 of 3

Milford Wharf

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Milford Wharf is the second major cruise ship terminal in Milford Sound. It is located at the end of the fiord, and is the starting point for some of the cruises that depart from Milford Sound. The terminal is equipped with a range of amenities, including a cafe, restrooms, and a gift shop. It is also the main point of access for visitors to the Milford Sound Nature Cruise.

Cruise pier (illustrative photo for Milford Wharf)
Wi-Fi

Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available at the Cruise Milford Sound cruise port. However, some of the nearby hotels and restaurants may offer wifi access.

Safety

Cruise Milford Sound is a very safe port. The port is located in a remote area of New Zealand, and there is no crime reported in the area. The port is also monitored by the New Zealand Police and the Department of Conservation. The cruise ships that visit the port are also subject to strict safety regulations.

Port address

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port car rental

Near the Cruise Milford Sound cruise port, there are several car rental options available. These include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Thrifty. All of these companies offer a variety of vehicles, from small cars to larger vans and SUVs. They also offer a range of rental packages, from daily to weekly and monthly rates. All of the car rental companies offer competitive rates and discounts for online bookings.

Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.

// Cruise Milford Sound cruise port excursions

Most Popular Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port Tours

1 excursions · book direct with the operator

Independent shore excursions in Cruise Milford Sound, booked directly with the operator who runs them. We flag the ones that guarantee you're back on board before the gangway lifts.

Best Cruise Milford Sound shore tours

Curated from 1 · not a search result
// Weather

Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port Weather

South Pacific - Australia·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Cruise Milford Sound
42°
Avg · °F
Cool, very wet
High
59°F
Low
27°F
Rain
7.6 in
Excursions that suit this weather
// Year-round in Cruise Milford Sound

Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.

Avg temp °FRainfall in
JANFEBMARAPRMAYJUNJULAUGSEPOCTNOVDECMONTHLY NORMALS · °F AND IN
// Cruise Milford Sound cruise ship schedule

Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port Traffic Today

No cruise ships are scheduled in Cruise Milford Sound today, Tuesday, September 29, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.

Schedule updated

Planning around the crowds?

  • Cruise Milford Sound cruise port schedule 2026, day by day
  • Slowest & busiest day analysis
  • Complete cruise line & ship visitor list
Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Ship Schedule
// Keep exploring

Also on your cruise

100% of Cruise Milford Sound cruises also call at one of these.

// Questions

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port, answered

The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Cruise Milford Sound.

Where is Cruise Milford Sound cruise port located?

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port is located in South Pacific. Cruise Milford Sound is located in the Fiordland National Park in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated at the head of the Milford Sound, a spectacular fiord surrounded by steep cliffs and lush rainforest. The cruise port is located at the end of the Milford Road, a scenic drive that takes visitors through the stunning landscapes of the Fiordland National Park. The cruise port is also close to the Milford Sound Visitor Centre, which offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors.

Is Cruise Milford Sound a good cruise port to visit?

Yes, Cruise Milford Sound is a great cruise port. It is located in the Fiordland National Park in New Zealand and is known for its stunning scenery and wildlife. It is a popular destination for cruise ships and offers a variety of activities such as kayaking, hiking, and scenic cruises.

How safe is Cruise Milford Sound cruise port for passengers?

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port has a safety score of 9.5 out of 10, ranking #1 of 318 ports in South Pacific. Cruise Milford Sound is a very safe port. The port is located in a remote area of New Zealand, and there is no crime reported in the area. The port is also monitored by the New Zealand Police and the Department of Conservation. The cruise ships that visit the port are also subject to strict safety regulations.

What is the weather like at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port in September?

In September, Cruise Milford Sound cruise port has average high temperatures of 59°F (15°C) and average lows of 27°F (-3°C).

How many excursions are available at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port?

There are currently 1 excursions and tours available at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port, covering everything from guided sightseeing and cultural experiences to water sports and adventure activities. Book in advance to secure your preferred experience.

What are the top things to do at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port?

Cruise Milford Sound cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Kayaking, Fishing, Hiking. Cruise Milford Sound is known for its stunning natural beauty. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the majestic beauty of the fiord and its surrounding mountains. Visitors can take a cruise through the fiord and enjoy the spectacular views of the towering cliffs, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls. There are also opportunities to spot wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and penguins. Additionally, visitors can explore the area by kayak or take a guided tour of the area. Cruise Milford Sound is a great place to experience the beauty of nature and create lasting memories.

Can I rent a car at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port?

Near the Cruise Milford Sound cruise port, there are several car rental options available. These include Avis, Budget, Hertz, Europcar, and Thrifty. All of these companies offer a variety of vehicles, from small cars to larger vans and SUVs. They also offer a range of rental packages, from daily to weekly and monthly rates. All of the car rental companies offer competitive rates and discounts for online bookings.

What is the WiFi situation at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port?

Unfortunately, there is no public wifi access available at the Cruise Milford Sound cruise port. However, some of the nearby hotels and restaurants may offer wifi access.

Where is the cruise terminal at Cruise Milford Sound cruise port?

The address of Cruise Milford Sound cruise port is Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

What is the Cruise Milford Sound Cruise Port cruise schedule?

There are no cruise ships scheduled at Cruise Milford Sound today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Cruise Milford Sound on any past or future date.

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