One of the most popular long-weekend getaways for locals and visitors alike is the Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound overnight cruises.
Real Journeys run these amazing experiences at a reduced rate (something like half the regular price) during winter. You only have to go with a local to benefit from the "locals rate", and many a visiting friend has taken advantage of this with us when the snow's not so hot or you get a rare clear weather window in Fiordland.
If this is your first time, I'd recommend the Milford Sound trip for its overwhelming immensity. The drive to Milford is a worthwhile trip in itself, although expect to take a full day driving in from Queenstown and another full day out. If you're short on time and the weather is looking good and your budget will allow for it, opt for the combination of the scenic flight to Milford Sound and a night on the Real Journeys Milford cruise, which takes you all the way out to the ocean mouth, and return to Queenstown by bus, private vehicle or return flight — it is one of the most satisfying experiences I've had anywhere in the world. The grandeur of Milford is unimaginable — it has to be experienced first hand. I'm still awestruck every time I stand underneath the sheer rock walls, cascading with water.
Drop into Te Anau on the drive home and make sure you leave enough time to visit the purpose-built Atu Whenua (Shadowland) cinema, where an enormous curved screen with luxurious armchairs awaits. Order your drinks beforehand from the well-stocked bar and café and take them in with you. After a personal welcome, you're in for 30 minutes of the most breathtaking helicopter footage from the inaccessible places of the Fiordland wilderness — country so rugged, few have ever set foot in many of the places you'll see. This is the only place in the world where this movie can be seen on the big screen. The DVD makes a great present for friends and family back home. We bought four after our first viewing!
It's no wonder that in the recent Trip Advisor survey, Milford Sound came out at number one as the world's most popular destination, followed by Queenstown.
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