Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New GuineaSwain Preferred

Milford Mariner Overnight Cruise


Overview

Return coach transport from Queenstown to Milford Sound and an overnight cruise on board the Milford Mariner. On boarding a Real Journeys coach in Queenstown, visitors enjoy a relaxing trip along the shores of Lake Wakatipu and through rolling countryside to Te Anau. The coach driver provides an informative commentary. Stopping in Te Anau for a short break provides the opportunity for lunch to be purchased (at extra cost) before the excursion continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way.

Upon arrival at Milford Sound, passengers board the Milford Mariner for the overnight cruise.

Stopping in Te Anau for a short break provides the opportunity for lunch to be purchased (at extra cost) before the excursion continues along the spectacular Milford Road. There is time for photo stops and short walks along the way. Upon arrival at Milford Sound, passengers board the Milford Mariner for the overnight cruise. After disembarking on the morning of the second day passengers return to Queenstown by coach.

The Milford Mariner offers a very special dinner, bed and breakfast experience. Designed along the lines of a traditional New Zealand coastal trading scow to reflect Fiordland’s heritage, the Milford Mariner caters for visitors who enjoy comfort, combined with activity. The vessel has been purpose built to accommodate passengers in private cabins with ensuite bathrooms. It has a spacious dining saloon, observation lounge and large open deck areas for viewing the scenery of Milford Sound.

Departing from the Milford Wharf, the Milford Mariner cruises the length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea. The vessel explores in a leisurely way many points of interest, with plenty of time available to view waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife with the experienced nature guide on board. After reaching the open sea, subject to weather and favorable conditions the sails are hoisted for a period. The vessel returns to the fiord and anchors overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove.

Activities include kayaking and exploring the shoreline on the tender craft. The overnight cruise includes a delicious four course buffet evening meal and hearty cooked breakfast. Beverages are sold at the licensed, on board bar. The next morning following breakfast, there is further cruising before returning to the Milford Wharf. Suitable for most ages, except infants. Not suitable for wheelchair clients due to steep stairs.

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Schedule

Departs Day 1 Season
16:30hrs 09:15hrs 1 Oct – 30 Apr
Returns Day 2
15:30hrs 09:30hrs 1 – 30 Sep & 1 – 30 May

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Departure Point

Real Journeys Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, Queenstown.
 Real Journeys coach picks up from all major accommodation in Queenstown.

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Features

Meals
Evening dining includes Hors d’oeuvres followed by a three-course meal, including vegetarian option. Breakfast is cooked and continental. All meals served in the Dining Saloon.

Accommodation
There are 28 cabins with ensuite bathroom. (18 cabins with twin single beds, 10 cabins with double beds). There are 2 family rooms (4 bunks) with ensuite bathroom. Bed linen, duvet, towel and pillow are provided.

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What to Bring

Waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes/boots, woolen sweater/fleece jacket, a change of clothes, swimwear (optional), sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and camera.

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