Milford Sound Bus Cruise Fly Tour Review 2025

So, you’re thinking about visiting Milford Sound, that unbelievably stunning place in New Zealand, too it’s almost a dream. That’s awesome! Many people, like your friends, are suggesting you do the “Premium Milford Sound Bus Cruise Fly Tour with Picnic Lunch from Queenstown,” is that right? Well, very you’ve come to the place for answers.

What’s the Buzz About This Tour?

So, what is this tour that has everyone chattering? Well, it is that it all starts bright and fairly early in Queenstown with a bus ride through some unbelievably awesome scenery. Think rolling hills, bright blue rivers, that’s really the New Zealand deal! After that, you swap the bus for a cruise on Milford Sound, seemingly that deep body of water, yet one where you get really close to waterfalls, cliffs, and maybe, just maybe, seals and dolphins.

Oh, and let’s not disregard that picnic lunch – fuel for all that natural amazement, or very much needed to be that! Then comes arguably that most awesome part: a scenic flight back to Queenstown. Rather than bus windows, this gets you crazy, stunning views. Is that a nice change? That sounds quite great, right?

Read our full review: Milford Sound Bus Cruise Fly Tour Full Review and Details

The Bus Part: Is It a Drag?

So, alright, that bus trip can be quite extended. That is to say, is it actually interesting? I think you might be okay. Most operators go for these deluxe, fancy buses these days with big windows. More or less everyone wants a view! They very usually make a ton of photo stops, too it’s almost like a chance to stretch your legs and snag some great shots. Still, keep in mind that it’s several hours on the road each way.

If you’re someone who hates being on a bus for hours, too it’s almost a tough one. Then, the “fly” part later might be particularly welcome. I am not sure that anyone dislikes hours spent looking through crystal clear windows while seeing nature. A bit boring maybe, perhaps. I think that is subjective to what you’d personally class as ‘enjoyable’. Very different! At least there are windows. Right?

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Milford Sound Bus Tour)

Cruising: Getting Up Close and Personal with Milford Sound

So, about that cruise. It does take you right into the heart of Milford Sound, that crazy glacier-carved place. Very high cliffs loom over you, just like something straight out of a movie. Or arguably just like a postcard! Waterfalls cascade down, sending this mist into the air that’s incredibly reviving. Is that cool? Many people look for some waterfalls to get splashed by.

Often you might spot wildlife – seals lounging on rocks, playful dolphins leaping. Could be a really unforgettable treat to your experience. That said, remember the weather can change super-fast in Milford Sound, nearly something to consider before leaving! One moment the sun is shining, and the next you’re in a light rain, which in its own way is pretty atmospheric. Too it’s almost good in its own way, if not slightly damp.

Read our full review: Milford Sound Bus Cruise Fly Tour Full Review and Details

Food with a View: The Picnic Lunch

So, okay, the picnic lunch might not be that most gourmet meal you’ve very had. That is true. But when you are eating it surrounded by all that raw, scenic, unspoiled beauty? Just a little something to remember. Seemingly the operators try to source tasty and good local things – sandwiches, salads, fruits – yet in a way, you’re mostly paying for the location, are you not?

Arguably bring your own treats too if you are fussy, could be better. Too it’s almost make that lunch truly amazing! The thing is, in some respects I enjoy sitting around having lunch watching views of a beautiful landmark, it’s quite fun. Nearly anywhere else I wouldn’t go outdoors at all. A really neat change. Isn’t that awesome? The area that the picnic is provided is awesome.

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Milford Sound Trip)

The Flight Back: Bird’s-Eye Views

Alright, so here is the bit that possibly sets this tour aside from other ones – the flight back. Many bus tours simply have you back on the bus, still on the road, for a seriously long ride. With this one, apparently you hop on a small plane and soar back to Queenstown.

The views from above are, in a way, crazy. Seriously unforgettable. Actually seeing the mountains, lakes, and valleys from that height really does give you a great idea of the landscape. Very worth it for that reason alone. It makes that whole day feel quite premium, you see? Arguably one you could potentially never forget. You know?

Read our full review: Milford Sound Bus Cruise Fly Tour Full Review and Details