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Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Cruises

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Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Milford Sound Cruise Including Underwater Observatory

Milford Sound Coach and Cruise from Queenstown with Buffet Lunch

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Kayak Tour

Milford Sound Coach and Scenic Lunch Cruise from Queenstown

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Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Cruises - All You MUST Know Before You Go (2024)

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Milford Sound Scenic Cruise

Customer enjoying a glacial facial under Stirling Falls in Milford Sound

Enjoying entertaining commentary from our nature guide in Milford Sound

Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Spotting seals in Milford Sound

Discover Milford Sound on our Nature Cruise, enjoy live commentary from our specialist nature guides as they introduce you to the natural wonders of Milford Sound. Get up close to thundering waterfalls and say hello to the some basking fur seals.

Milford Sound Nature Cruise - Southern Discoveries

Milford Wharf , Milford Sound , New Zealand .

Locally owned and operated, explore the 8th wonder of the world with the original Red Boats on our Milford Sound Nature Cruise. Feel the full force of Stirling Falls, marvel at the incredible scenery and yarn with our skipper in the open wheelhouse.

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Join us on the original Milford Sound Nature Cruise for an epic voyage of discovery. We’ll get you so close to this famous fiord you can reach out and touch the sheer rock walls, or stand under Stirling Falls for a glacial facial. Our passionate skipper will provide entertaining nature commentary from the wheelhouse, while our boat hosts are on hand for a chat and to answer any questions. Whatever the weather, our newly refurbished lounges offer amazing views through large windows. Our outdoor decks offer 360º views and are prefect for photographers to get a picture of a basking New Zealand fur seal. Option to add a delicious, freshly prepared picnic lunch. This is one experience you do not want to miss.

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Milford Sound Encounter Nature Cruise

After spending the morning driving on the scenic Road to Milford Sound, we went on a nature cruise on Milford Sound for a chance to spot penguins, whales, dolphins, seals, and more. Although it’s called Milford Sound, technically it’s not a sound but rather a fjord–an inlet of the Tasman sea and is found within Fiordland National Park.

This was our first glimpse of Milford Sound. There were a lot of clouds, but apparently that’s normal most days of the year. I liked the the stormy look…it made everything look so mysterious and enchanting. We spent two days in the area and didn’t get to see the top of Mitre peak (pictured above in the middle topped with clouds).

I recommend booking with Southern Discoveries for a small boat experience. We opted for the Encounter Nature Cruise , which lasts 2.5 hours with informative commentary and plenty of time to get up close and personal with nature and wildlife.

Our boat took us right up underneath this waterfall. Make sure you wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet if you’re outside on the boat. They provide raincoats on board, but you will likely get soaked. Talk about getting up close and personal with nature!

There were only a few other boats that we saw out on the water. I hear that it gets crowded earlier in the day because of the hundreds of people that drive in all the way from Queenstown. We took an afternoon cruise after all the day trippers had left and loved having the place pretty much to ourselves.

We spent a good amount of time observing the seals while they napped, sunbathed, and played on the rocks. I can’t really explain why, but I thought everything they did was cute. Apparently everyone else on the boat thought so, too, given all the photos and selfies that were taken right below us.

When you book your cruise, you’ll have the option of adding on a visit to the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory . We didn’t have time to visit, but it sounds really interesting. You can see the entrance to the center in the photo above. The center and observatory are located underwater! Unlike an aquarium, where the fish are in a tank, here you get to observe the sea life in their own environment while YOU are in a tank behind the glass. That’s pretty awesome.

Lady Bowen Falls (above) is the tallest waterfall in Milford Sound at 531 ft and serves as the main source of water and electricity for the town.

I loved cruising on the Encounter Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries. There are a lot of companies to choose from, and I highly recommend them. I very much enjoyed the small boat experience, because it allows you to get up closer to the waterfalls and animals. Our captain was great, giving us really interesting facts and cracking some pretty funny jokes. They offer free hot drinks and have plenty of seats inside, as well as space outside to take in all viewing angles. The check-in and boarding process was smooth and the crew was fantastic. Even though we didn’t see any dolphins or penguins, I thought it was worth it if only to get the chance to cruise through the fjord and enjoy the scenery of majestic cliffs and waterfalls. And the cute seals.

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New Zealand » Milford Sound Cruise, New Zealand’s Fiordland NP

Milford Sound Cruise, New Zealand’s Fiordland NP

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Milford sound, encounter nature cruise.

On our Milford Sound Cruise, we head towards a waterfall pouring off the edge of a tall granite cliff into the ocean. Fog hangs thick in the air around the mountains, and there is light rain, but it adds to the atmosphere.

Suddenly two huge Bottlenose Dolphins jump up vertically out of the water leaving all passengers on the boat awestruck. This is the magic of Milford Sound, in the Fiordland region of New Zealand’s South Island. It is even better than I had imagined it being.

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. It is equivalent to visiting The Great Ocean Road on Australia’s South Coast. It is a five-hour drive from Queenstown to a dead end point of New Zealand. Out of the way, but totally worth the trip.

Our Encounter Nature Cruise with Southern Discoveries is two and a half hours long. We will visit three beautiful waterfalls, see dolphins swimming by the boat and seals sunbaking on the rocks.

The first stop is the Fairy Falls. We are told to get ready for a drenching as the boat is going to get quite close to the waterfall. In fact, we get close enough that we are able to fill up a glass of glacial water directly from the waterfall.

Some may say that water does not have a taste, they are wrong. Take a drink of this waterfall nectar and you will realize it is the purest liquid you have ever drunk.

Resuming the journey, we head towards our second waterfall. Along the way, we notice fins in the water. There is a pod of five Bottlenose Dolphins about two hundred meters in front of the boat.

The captain slows the boat down so he does not get too close; however, these curious dolphins come right up to the boat and swim alongside us. It is the first time I have ever seen dolphins, now we get to see them swim alongside the boat for a few minutes, just meters away.

We head off to Anita Bay. This is the point where Milford Sound meets the Tasman Sea. The water is rougher out here, but there is a cloudless blue sky. What a dramatic difference over just a few kilometers that we have traveled. Beyond here, the next land mass is Tasmania, Australia’s southernmost state.

On our return trip, the sky has cleared up and the view of the surrounding mountains is incredible. All around there are small waterfalls running down the cliff face into the ocean below.

The captain steers the boat towards the Stirling Falls as he warns us that this time we are going to get even wetter than the previous waterfall. We are offered rain jackets, but I decide to brave the cold water and stand on the front deck of the boat, only covering my camera with a plastic bag.

Half the boat goes under the waterfall, as I get drenched in the icy cold water. Should have taken up on the offer of the proper rain jackets.

On our return leg, a beam of sunlight shines through the mountains, a few more dolphins swim ahead of the boat with the Bowen Falls placed as a backdrop. It is a perfect ending to our morning.

Where is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is located in the Fiordland National Park in the southwest corner of New Zealand’s South Island. It is just 72 kilometers northwest of Queenstown over the mountain ranges, however, there are no roads making a direct connection.

The closest town to Milford Sound is Te Anau, which is located 120km to the south. The drive from Te Anau takes 2-2.5hrs, so be sure to allow plenty of time.

Te Anau is another 170km from Queenstown, around a dogleg road, which first heads south, then northwest.

How to get to Milford Sound

Tour companies such as Southern Discoveries offers day trips from Queenstown, which is perfect is if you are short on time, or do not have your own vehicle.

With a campervan, you will drive 170km south from Queenstown to Te Anau. This part of the trip takes about 3hrs and follows Lake Wakatipu with some stunning views.

After Te Anau, you will drive 120km northwest to Milford Sound. The road winds through the Fiordland National Park for most of the way. North of Te Anau there is no mobile phone reception, so make sure to download your booking confirmation first.

Where to stay at Milford Sound?

There are a number of lodges and campsites in the Fiordland National Park. For those with a campervan, try out the Cascade Creek campsite. There are 140 non-powered sites for NZD13 per person per night (pay cash at the camp registration point).

The Cascade Creek campsite is located in a spot between the mountains, an awesome view in the late afternoon. There are basic pit toilets, drinking water available, but no power or showers so come prepared.

There are no reservations for the Cascade Creek campsite. It works on a first come, first served basis.

If you are on a luxury New Zealand trip , there are also a few lodges in the Fiordland National Park. Rooms tend to start at 200 NZD per night and get much more expensive.

For another great NZ campsite visit:  White Horse Hill by the Hooker Valley Track

Things to do near Milford Sound

• Eglinton Valley – this open grassy spot is located in the south of the Fiordland National Park and offers a great view of the mountains heading towards Milford Sound. The walk is less than 5 minutes each way from the carpark.
• Mirror Lakes – these lakes provide a mirror image of the mountains on a still day. It is a nice 10-minute stop on the site of the road when heading to or from Milford Sound to Te Anau.
• Pop’s Lookout – a side of the road lookout with views over the valley and river below. This stop only takes about 5 minutes in total.
• Lake Gunn – a great spot for lunch on the way back from Milford Sound. Lake Gunn has calm clear water with a day use picnic area on the northern end. There are also some short hikes around the lake.
• Day Hikes – there are plenty of day hikes in the Fiordland National Park. Check here for a full list of further details.

This Milford Sound Cruise was taken with Southern Discoveries . As always, all opinions are my own.

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Wildlife that can be seen on a Milford Sound cruise

What you can expect to see on a milford sound cruise.

It’s no secret Milford Sound is one of the most beautiful places to visit in New Zealand. Within a quick glance, you’re welcomed with stunning scenery and a landscape unlike any other. However, if you look a little closer and take a little more time, there’s more than meets the eye lurking in the deep blue and surrounding greenery.

Milford Sound’s wildlife includes some very impressive and unique species. It’s home to a huge range of marine animals and many birds that are only found in New Zealand. Seeing the wildlife in Milford Sound is all part of the experience – and the best way to see them all is on a Milford Sound cruise .

Before we tell you about the best cruise to get up close to Milford’s wildlife, let us introduce you to some of the species that call Milford Sound home!

We’re yet to meet someone who doesn’t love dolphins. What’s not to love? Well in Milford Sound, you’re in for a real treat because beneath the surface two species of dolphins visit the fiord – the Bottlenose Dolphin and the dusky dolphin .

Out of the two, you’re most likely to see the bottlenose dolphin . These guys are regular visitors to Milford and also the most common dolphin in New Zealand in general.

Here are some interesting facts about bottlenose dolphins!

Bottlenose dolphins can grow up to three meters long and weigh a whopping 300 kilograms! They also can live for around 40 years. Bottlenose dolphins eat a variety of fish and use sonar or echolocation to hunt for them . The dolphins send out ultra soundwaves through the water which bounces off the fish – this tells the dolphins exactly how big and where the fish are. It’s pretty impressive!

There are more than 60 bottlenose dolphins that inhabit the area around Fiordland and the best place to see them is from one of our Milford Sound cruises as they ride the waves from our boats! Of course, if you go kayaking in Milford you may get closer than ever to these friendly and inquisitive animals.

Many visitors are very surprised to find out that Milford sound is home to not one, but two species of penguin! They are the little blue penguin and the Fiordland crested penguin or ‘tawaki’.

Blue penguins are the most common species of penguin, but they can be hard to find. This is because they nest in burrows and spend most of their days hunting for fish below the surface of the water. To top it off, they are also the smallest penguin species in the world and their blue colouring gives them the ultimate camouflage!

Here are some interesting facts about the Fiordland crested penguin!

The Fiordland crested penguin, on the other hand, is one of the rarest penguins in the world, but during their breeding season between July and November, they can often be found nesting in the rocks of Milford Sound. These rare birds feed mostly on squid, fish, and krill; can weigh up to 4 kilograms and live for around 20 years.

Fiordland crested penguins are monogamous and often mate for life. Although the pairs separate when not breeding, females return each year to the same beach in search of their mate from the previous season. Females lay two white eggs by the end of August. The first egg is generally smaller than the second, and most first eggs fail to hatch, or the chicks die of starvation within ten days of hatching.

Fiordland crested penguins can’t raise more than one chick per season, and the first egg is thought to be an insurance policy in case the second egg does not survive. Chicks are brooded by the male, who goes without food for the first three weeks. The chicks are fed by both parents until they become independent and leave the colony in late November or early December.

Despite being a protected species, the Fiordland crested penguin is considered vulnerable. It’s estimated that there are only between 1,000 and 2,500 nesting pairs left in the world.

Luckily, projects like the Tawaki Project are shedding some light on the species to help us better understand them and help the population grow. Initially, it was thought that there were only an estimated nine breeding pairs of these penguins in Milford Sound, but on further investigation, around 180 pairs were found! Milford has become one of the project’s key focus areas since this finding. The project is run by the Otago University but requires the help of others out in the field including our employees! Southern Discoveries supports the project by supplying researchers with food, accommodation, transport and the use of our small safety boat so they can access difficult to reach areas to complete research.

Seals are one of the most common marine animals to see aboard a Milford Sound cruise. New Zealand fur seals (also known as Antarctic fur seals) inhabit in the fiord all year round. In fact, there’s one place you’re almost guaranteed to see them and that is, as the name suggests, Seal Rock.

Seals often visit Seal Rock to sunbathe under the New Zealand sun and hide from predators in the water. New Zealand fur seals much more agile on land compared to other seals such as the weddell, crabeater and elephant seals.

Here are some interesting facts about the New Zealand fur seal

The New Zealand fur seal eats mostly fish and krill but will also eat small birds, which unfortunately includes the Fiordland crested penguin. Males live for around 15 years and females 25 years. Male New Zealand fur seals can reach 200kg (440lb) and can be up to four times larger than the females.

These seals were hunted almost to extinction in the early 1800s when their fur was sought by the fashion industry. Since then, these seals are protected and have made a great comeback – with a population estimate of 200,000 in 2001 . Be sure to keep an eye out for them on your visit to Milford!

We don’t want to get you too excited, but on rare occasions, Milford Sound is visited by the southern right whale – the rarest of all large whales. They are usually seen around the mainland of New Zealand and appear to be part of the New Zealand sub-Antarctic population. But, sometimes we get lucky and these whales make an appearance in Milford!

Southern right whales can come very close to shore. Adults average 14-15 metres in size and newborn calves between 4.5-6 metres. They are mostly black in colour and can easily be identified by lack of a dorsal fin, a V-shaped blowhole spray, and white growth on their heads called callosities.

Native Birds

New Zealand is a bird haven and home to many unique species that only call New Zealand home.

One unique bird that you’re very likely to see on your trip to Milford is the kea. The kea is the only alpine parrot in the world and these guys are famous around Fiordland. They are known to be very friendly but also mischievous. You’ll want to watch your belongings around them because keas are known to sneak food from bags or backpacks, or even help themselves to anything they can find in campervans! You’ll often see keas flying high above you or even picking at cars in the Milford car park.

Another bird species that inhabits the area around Milford Sound is, of course, the Kiwi Bird. The kiwi is New Zealand’s national animal and there are five different kiwi species spread across New Zealand. These shy birds are nocturnal so it’s likely you won’t see them, but that doesn’t mean they’re not around. If you spend the night at Milford Lodge you might have luck spotting them after the sun goes down.

One of the rarest birds found in Milford Sound though is the whio or blue duck .

Unfortunately, the introduction of stoats, possums, and rats have caused a huge decline in their population. It’s not all bad news though and projects like the Sinbad Sanctuary Project are helping to ensure their survival.

At Southern Discoveries, we are the Sinbad Project’s principal sponsor. Since the project began the Blue Duck has seen a 500% increase in breeding pairs in the Sinbad Gully in Milford Sound! This project also hopes to introduce the kākāpō, the world’s rarest parrot, back onto the mainland of New Zealand. The Sinbad Gully was the last place these guys were found on the mainland and their return would be a truly special moment in Milford Sound conservation.

The Best Milford Sound Cruise to see Wildlife

Encounter nature cruise.

Our Encounter Nature Cruise is a great option for those who are dying to see Milford Sound’s unique wildlife. It’s our longest cruise and our onboard nature guides have a keen eye for spotting wildlife. It’s the ideal cruise for close up photos of seals, dolphins or penguins.

Nature Cruise

Our Nature Cruise is our most relaxing cruise in Milford Sound. On our journey around the fiord we’ll visit places like Seal Rock and give you an awesome opportunity to see the New Zealand fur seal from only meters away. On this cruise, we’ll also have a nature guide on board not only explaining more about Milord Sound but also keeping an eye out for any animals that decide to come and say hi!

Scenic Cruise

If you’re interested in Milford Sound’s wildlife but also want to comfort of our largest vessel in Milford Sound, then our Scenic Cruise is the perfect option. Here you can sit back, relax, and choose to enjoy our buffet lunch or breakfast while keeping an eye out for Milord’s wildlife.

Underwater Observatory

Make the most of your experience in Milford Sound and add a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory . Here, you’ll descend ten metres below the surface to see Milford Sound (and its wildlife) from a whole new angle.

From a kayak, Milford Sounds’ true size becomes even more clear. On our kayaking tours, we take you through Harrison Cove in search for some of the cleanest water in the world and also some unique wildlife!

In Milford, we’re the only company with a kayak lowering deck meaning you’ll be in your kayak before you’re in the water! It’s the safest and easiest way to get into a kayak and opens this activity up to the whole family!

Book your Milford Sound experience now and see if you can you spot Milford’s unique wildlife. Make sure to tag us on your social posts and use the hashtag #southerndiscoveries – we’ll be on the lookout for pictures of our fave Milford locals.

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Milford Sound Cruises - Southern Discoveries

Encounter nature cruise.

Get up close and personal with this pristine environment on our small boat, Encounter Nature Cruise. Reach out and touch sheer rock cliffs and drink pure glacial water straight from the waterfalls, see seals sunning themselves on the rocks, dolphins riding the bow wave or if you're lucky, spot rare Fiordland crested penguins (in season).

Why choose an Encounter Nature Cruise?

• Small boat with fewer passengers for an intimate Milford Sound experience
• Interactive and personal with a fun and friendly atmosphere
• Two specialist nature guides share their local knowledge with lively and informative commentary
• Taste pure glacial water from towering waterfalls
• The ideal cruise for close-up photos of seals, dolphins or penguins
• Raincoats provided on board so you can stand on the bow under tumbling waterfalls
• Large, outdoor viewing deck with covered seating
• Have your photo taken with the skipper in the open wheelhouse
• Range of lunch options available (must be pre-ordered, at extra cost)
• Complimentary tea and coffee

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Scenic Cruise

Check out Milford's awe-inspiring scenery from our spacious observation lounges or large, outdoor viewing decks on one of our modern, purpose-built catamarans. Move freely around the boat and enjoy the comfort and stability that only a twin-hull vessel can provide.

Why choose a Scenic Cruise?

• Cruise the length of the fiord and out to the Tasman Sea, stopping at waterfalls and points of interest along the way
• Spacious observation lounges with tall viewing windows and plenty of comfortable indoor seating
• Soak up the sun on our large viewing decks with 360-degree views of the towering fiord
• Family friendly, with a lively and informative commentary from our skipper
• Multi-lingual commentary available on select departures
• Visit the skipper in the open wheelhouse
• Enjoy delicious, freshly prepared lunch options while you cruise the fiord. Our hot International Buffet Lunch is available on our 11.00am and 1.30pm sailings (must be pre-ordered, at extra cost)

Discover More Cruise

The longest and best value daytime cruise in Milford Sound enables you to really explore the beauty of the fiord. Our local, knowledgeable nature guides ensure you discover the wildlife, nature and history of this remarkable sanctuary. With a delicious Gourmet Picnic Lunch and visit to the Milford Discovery Centre included, it's the complete cruise experience.

Why choose a Discover More Cruise?

• You have time to slow down and luxuriate in the beauty of Milford Sound
• Visit the Milford Discovery Centre & Underwater Observatory and enjoy a delicious lunch
• Specialist nature guides roam the vessel and share their passion and knowledge of the history, geology and wildlife of the fiord
• Exceptional value, all-inclusive nature experience with excellent wildlife viewing
• Stand under Stirling Falls - the most magnificent waterfall in Milford Sound - but keep dry with a raincoat provided on board
• Taste pure glacial water straight from the waterfalls
• Join the skipper in the open wheelhouse
• 1 hour kayaking add on available on this trip

NEW in 2010 the Milford Discovery Centre is the perfect addition to your Milford Sound nature cruise. Interactive and educational, learn about the history of Milford Sound, it's early settlers, Maori history, geology and wildlife. Then descend 10 metres underwater to explore the world of exotic creatures and rare black coral.

• Delicious pre-ordered lunch options available on all of our cruises or buy from our onboard licensed snack bar
• Free tea and coffee onboard
• Coach, plane and helicopter connections available from Queenstown and Te Anau
• Visit us in Queenstown, Te Anau or Milford Wharf to find out more

About Milford Sound

Milford Sound, described by Rudyard Kipling as the “eighth wonder of the world”, was carved out during successive ice ages and, at its deepest point off Mitre Peak, plunges to a depth of 265 metres.

The grandeur of Milford Sound can be appreciated from the air or water. Bowen Falls, hurtling 165 metres into the sea and the Stirling Falls further down the sound, set amidst the towering cliffs and dwarfed by Mitre Peak, are truly spectacular after rain.

Bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins are resident in the fiord and can be viewed up close from the launch cruises or kayak trips.

Spectacular kayaking and diving trips in the Milford Sound are very popular, as is the Underwater Observatory.

Encounter Nature Cruise in Milford Sound - Winter

At the Milford Sound Visitor Centre (Freshwater Basin State Highway 94, Milford Sound Milford Sound, 9679)

Discover the beauty of the Fiordland National Park during the winter season on this Milford Sound Cruise that will bring you closer to nature than many other fjord cruises. Catch a glimpse of the local wildlife including seals, dolphins and the rare Fiordland crested penguin, and take in the unique scenery of Milford Sound. Escape the large tour groups on this smaller boat with independent travellers and get even better photo opportunities as we pass by the majestic mountains and rumbling waterfalls . So don't forget your camera! You'll definitely want to capture this incredible experience! Highlights: - Longest and most interactive Milford Sound Cruise - Expert commentary - Close-up photo opportunities of local wildlife Departure & Arrival: Please come to the Milford Sound Visitor Centre and check-in at our desk at the latest at the time specified on your booking confirmation. You will then proceed to board the boat which departs 15 minutes after the check-in closes . The Milford Sound Cruise will last for 2h and 15 minutes , after which we return back to the departure point. Characteristics of the boat: - Number of passengers: 75 people - Licensed bar - Sun-protected area - Restrooms Included Services: - Tea & Coffee

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Southern Discoveries Milford Sound

Some of the Best Cruises for Families Aren’t on Mega-Ships

A cruise doesn’t need to be a floating theme park for kids to have fun. from sailing ships to river cruises, luxury yachts to larger ships with an international clientele, these cruises will delight passengers of every age..

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Surprise the kids with something really different, like a sailing ship adventure.

Courtesy of Star Clippers

Don’t get me wrong, I love my children, but family travel can pose some unique challenges. A younger tot might revel in playing in a pool for hours, while older teens might be more interested in culinary exploits. The parents may just want to relax, and if grandparents or other older family members are coming along, they could have different desires as well. A great way to satisfy a wide range of tastes and interests across ages and life stages is on a cruise ship.

The best cruises for families will allow you to travel in a different way from land-based adventures, with the ship itself serving as an essential part of the journey. These sailings will provide high-quality experiences for a variety of interests that highlight the port destinations being visited. These are our top picks for worldwide cruises that combine engaging encounters with luxury services, and that are bound to foster moments of connection and transformation to create lasting memories.

Maple Leaf Adventures’ 12-person tugboat is small enough that some families could book the entire vessel for a reunion.

Courtesy of Maple Leaf Adventures

An Alaskan voyage on a luxury expedition tugboat

Best for: Families with older children and young adults who yearn for some time together in close (but comfortable) quarters with opportunities for abundant wildlife watching To book: 11-night Alaska Voyage from Petersburg to Ketchikan from $12,600 per person.

Recommended for kids old enough to be able to handle themselves around wildlife such as bears, this intimate, magical journey explores Pack Creek Bear Viewing Area , at the center of southeast Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, with the opportunity to see humpback whales and a tidal glacier. The 12-passenger Swell is a converted tugboat with six cozy cabins. The ship has an on-deck hot tub, indoor, outdoor, and protected outdoor lounge/seating areas, and a dining lounge. Future scientists will enjoy the open wheelhouse policy where guests are invited in anytime to be with the navigators. Kayaks are available for passengers, and naturalist tools include a hydrophone for listening to whales, a flat screen with charts for presentations, an aquarium showcasing intertidal life, a microscope with a projector, and a spotting scope.

For older children, an Amazon adventure aboard the Delfin II is sure to be an unforgettable one.

Photo by David Vargas

Exploring the Upper Amazon aboard a custom-built river cruise ship

Best for: Families with children age five and up who are interested in exploring the rich flora and fauna of the Amazon To book: 10-night Upper Amazon Aboard the Delfin II , round-trip from Lima, from $8,865 per person (with discounted rates for children)

Journey with Lindblad Expeditions/National Geographic into the remarkable wilderness of Peru’s Upper Amazon River. Enjoy meals enhanced by tropical fruits and vegetables, suites with hardwood floors and palm ceilings, and common spaces featuring handcrafted lanterns. Venture into the jungle on a fleet of kayaks to seek sloths, monkeys, and rare pink dolphins with expert naturalists, who offer a meaningful connections to the ribereño communities visited along the way.

Sailing on Star Clippers’ tall ships in Central America

Best for: Children over eight years old who yearn to be pirates To book: 7-night Central American sailings , round-trip from Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica, from $4,680 (with discounted rates for children)

Star Clippers’ small ships allow travelers to visit Isla San Jose in Panama’s Pearl Island and the uninhabited Isla Iguana to take in frigate birds, coral reefs, and iguanas. Thrill-seeking teens can climb the masts (in harnesses) to reach the crow’s nest nearly 65 above the deck.

Your kids will enjoy learning about European castles and history thanks to Disney’s well-trained adventure guides.

Courtesy of Adventures by Disney

Gliding along the Rhine River with Adventures by Disney

Best for: Enjoying European destinations while Disney-trained Adventure Guides entertain the whole family To book: 8-night Rhine river cruise from Basel to Amsterdam, from $6,500 per person (with discounted rates for children)

Adventures by Disney sails Europe’s rivers on AmaWaterways’ luxe ships, which offer kid-friendly amenities like connecting staterooms, heated pools, and complimentary bikes (including kid sizes) and helmets onboard so you can explore port destinations on your own. Or families can take advantage of included excursions like zip lining in the Black Forest (followed by Black Forest cake), canoeing through Strasbourg, and castle tours with magnificent Disney Adventure Guides, who can entertain all ages, a priceless addition for parental serenity.

Ultimate luxury in the Galápagos with Ecoventura

Best for: Feeling as if you are the only visitors to one of the most fascinating places on Earth To book: 7-night Volcanic Wonders itinerary , round-trip from San Cristobal, from $9,750 per person

The Relais & Châteaux brand Ecoventura luxury expedition yacht offers interconnecting suites, some with triple accommodations that includes a Pullman berth bunk bed that can be lowered above one of the twin beds or over a king to accommodate different family sizes. Ecoventura has a local naturalist for every four guests, which means that you are often the only group touring an island at a time, walking so close to blue-footed boobies that you can leave binoculars behind. (Although on a recent sailing when I wanted mine, a staff member zoomed our Zodiac boat back to the yacht to retrieve them from my stateroom in minutes.) The ship boasts a hot tub, library, and a roomy upper deck and lounge with board games and movies for families to enjoy while sailing.

For families who like the idea of big-ship amenities but with a mix of international kids onboard, book a sailing on the MSC Bellissima , where kids will converge in the Mini Club Lego.

Courtesy of Ivan Sarfatti/MSC Cruises

A thrilling Japanese journey aboard the MSC Belissima

Best for: Families with kids of all ages (including babies and toddlers) who want to mix and mingle with passengers from all over the world with the added bonus of Cirque de Soleil–style entertainment To book: 5-night Tokyo to Okinawa , from $1,970 per person for a Yacht Club suite (with discounted rates for children)

In 2024, Geneva-based MSC Cruises returned to Asia after a four-year hiatus. The Yacht Club offers a small-ship experience with the larger cruise ship, with an exclusive and private dining area, lounge, pool, and butler service. Yet the 4,500-passenger MSC Bellisima also includes the bells and whistles (like kids clubs and huge waterslides) of a larger ship. Offboard, dedicated excursions and concierge disembarkation make the Yacht Club a perfect experience for multigenerational travel.

The entire family will be entranced by the sights and sounds of Iceland.

Photo by Kyle Anthony Photography/Shutterstock

Circumnavigating Iceland with HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions)

Best for: Adventurous families with children age five and up To book: 11-night the Land of Elves, Sagas & Volcanoes , round-trip from Reykjavík, from $6,128 per person (with discounted rates for children)

Traveling with an expedition team allows the itinerary to change depending on conditions as you cross the Arctic Circle and cruise along Eyjafjörður, Iceland’s longest fjord. This flexibility also grants families the chance to request specific expeditions, including hikes tailored to novice or experienced hikers and the ability to have a shorter adventure for family members who might prefer an afternoon nap.

There’s a fancy and kid-friendly way to sail in the Caribbean: It’s called Explora Journeys.

Courtesy of Ivan Sarfatti/Explora Journeys

Design-centric luxury in the Caribbean with Explora Journeys

Best for: Families with kids as young as six months who are cruising for the first time and appreciate art, design, and elevated culinary offerings To book: A Journey to Rum-Soaked Isles and Castaway Bliss , 7 nights from Bridgetown to Miami, from $4,050 per person (with discounted rates for children)

Explora ships, where every guest room is an oceanfront suite, were specifically designed to appeal to travelers who might be more drawn to a yacht or boutique hotel but are intrigued by kids clubs, onboard activities, and not packing and unpacking nightly. Family-friendly amenities include smaller bathrobes for kids, cribs and toys upon request, interconnecting family suites, and a Young Explorers enrichment program of activities designed around protecting the ocean that is offered during school holidays.

A worry-free long weekend in the Caribbean aboard Celebrity

Best for: Families traveling with active, small children who seek a restorative, classy getaway To book: 3-night Bahamas and Perfect Day , round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, from $845 per person for a Retreat Suite (with discounted rates for children)

The private island, Coco Cay, allows very young families and those with special needs, like those who need to be near a medical facility or require special diets, ADA compliances, or medication, to relax without anxiety both on and offboard. Celebrity ships, while smaller than the massive mega-liners, are still packed with activities, a complimentary kids club for ages 0–17, and a variety of dining options. A booking in one of the Retreat area suites includes a private restaurant and exclusive lounge. Multi-room and two-story suites with terraces, whirlpool tubs, and family configurations are also available.

By the end of this Nile sailing, your kids will be experts in ancient Egyptian history.

Courtesy of Getty Images/Unsplash

Cultural immersion on Egypt’s Nile River with Uniworld

Best for: Families with budding Egyptologists To book: Splendors of Egypt and the Nile , 12 nights round-trip from Cairo, from $5,000 per person (with discounted rates for children)

This itinerary on Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ 84-passenger S.S. Sphinx includes two full days and nights in bustling Cairo (with a visit to the Great Pyramids, of course) and a flight to Luxor to continue the once-in-a-lifetime journey. Select sailings boast Uniworld’s Generations Family Program, which features unique, fun-filled adventures for children, including meeting with Egyptian youngsters, plus culturally and historically significant experiences.

Whale watching with National Geographic in Baja California

Best for: Families who love nature and science To book: 7-night Among the Great Whales , round-trip from Loreto, Mexico, from $7,000 per person (with discounted rates for children)

With naturalists alongside, guests will visit Bahía Magdalena to look for California gray whales and their calves. On a ship hydrophone, families can listen to eerily beautiful whale songs. Snorkel among bright blue damselfish and sea lions and experience guided hikes on deserted islands. Children age five and up can participate in the hands-on, interactive National Geographic Global Explorers program , which teaches kids how to develop the attitudes, skills, and knowledge of explorers while enjoying activities like recording wildlife sightings in field notebooks, observing plankton fresh from the oceans, and taking photographs, videos, and creating maps.

Dolphin Encounter & Nature Tour

The Ultimate Dolphin Tour On Hilton Head Island

Quick Details

• User Ages: All Ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 2hrs
• Tag Capacity: up to 12 people

Join our Hilton Head Dolphin and Nature Tour!

Explore an experience that connects you with the wonders of the sea. Discover Hilton Head Island’s low-country waters on this two-hour Dolphin Encounter eco tour. Your skilled and knowledgeable captain gets you up close to nature as you take in the sights and scenery of the salt marshes from Broad Creek to the Calibogue Sound. Keep a lookout for dolphins as you learn more about our local history and the wildlife that calls this area home. Book this tour for a memorable dolphin watching experience in South Carolina!

Related Activities

• Our Most Popular Tour!
• up to 12 people
• Hour Glass 3hrs
• User 12yrs & below , 13yrs+

Our Expeditions: Vanishing Island Tour

Discover the enchanting Vanishing Island with Island Explorer’s guided tours in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Experience the awe-inspiring phenomenon of a sandbar known as Vanishing Island, emerging only at low tide.

• Hour Glass 2hrs
• User All Ages

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

Embark on a breathtaking sunset dolphin cruise with Island Explorer in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Experience the magic of the low-country as the sun paints the sky with hues of orange and pink, providing a stunning backdrop to your dolphin-watching adventure. Book online!

• Hour Glass 2.5hrs

Tuesday Night Sunset and Fireworks Cruise

As the sun sets in a blaze of colors over the Lowcountry waters, embark on a journey that combines the serene beauty of a sunset cruise with the exhilaration of a fireworks spectacle. Glide along the tranquil coast, witnessing the sky ablaze with vibrant hues.

• Hour Glass 1hr

Discovery Eco Tour

Immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as our expert guides lead you through the island’s pristine ecosystems, uncovering its hidden treasures. Explore the diverse flora and fauna, witness unique wildlife, and learn about the delicate balance of this extraordinary environment. Book online!

• User 12yrs & below , 13yrs up

Daufuskie Island Beachcombing Tours

Embark on an exciting Daufuskie Island beachcombing tour with Island Explorer in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Discover the hidden treasures that await along the pristine shores of Daufuskie Island, a coastal gem renowned for its natural beauty and seashell abundance. Book online today!

Dolphin Strand Feeding

Experience the awe-inspiring phenomenon of Dolphin Strand Feeding with Island Explorer in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Witness the sheer brilliance of nature as dolphins showcase their unique feeding technique in shallow waters.

Adventure Time: Things You Need To Know Before Taking An Expedition Cruise

“Leave your suitcase on the dock, grab a life jacket, and jump on the boat.”

Instead of using a walkway to get to our ship, we had to take a short boat ride, so I dutifully snapped the clasps of the bright red life jacket, found a spot on the edge of an inflatable zodiac boat (holding on to the rope behind me for dear life), and wondered what I had gotten myself into.

But by the end of the week, I was grateful that I had signed up for the expedition cruise. Though I had researched what to expect on the trip, experience is truly the best teacher. As the week unfolded, I learned a lot about this form of exploration and the type of people who take such cruises. Below are the most important takeaways.

Expedition ships are much smaller than traditional cruise ships

One of the first things to know before signing up for an expedition cruise is the ship size will pale in comparison to what you’re used to. While ships will vary in size, the MS Santa Cruz II holds up to 90 passengers, and our sailing had a little more than 60 passengers. I stayed in an explorer cabin, which had a comfortable double-size bed, wide window, and crisp navy and white nautical-inspired decor.

Since the ship is smaller, you can feel more movement, and we did experience some intense swaying one night, which made me nauseous. The crew provided me with anti-nausea medication, and I spent a few hours on the observation deck getting fresh air. Sea sickness is more common on a smaller ship, and if it’s your first time on a smaller cruise ship, it may take some time to get your “sea legs.”

And though the ship was small, the food was a big highlight. Hurtigruten Expeditions is a top-of-the-line cruise company, and the food they provided did not disappoint. Breakfast was a buffet of traditional dishes like bacon, eggs, pastries, waffles, and fresh fruit, and lunch and dinner were made-to-order three-course meals and included ceviche, roasted chicken, and prime rib. Alcoholic drinks were complimentary during mealtimes and there also was a bar for ordering drinks at night.

Your packing list is going to look a little different

The dress code on an expedition cruise is very casual. For most of the cruise, we wore our expedition gear (for me that meant leggings or shorts and a T-shirt). For a warm-weather voyage, it’s important to bring clothes that are going to get wet and possibly dirty and lots of sun protection because you’ll spend 90 percent of your day outdoors.

Be sure to pack a sunhat, water shoes, swimsuits, or a rash guard. I purchased a long-sleeve swimsuit at the airport in Quito, which turned out to be one of my best travel purchases. It’s also important to bring a backpack to store a change of clothes. In order to get to our expeditions, we had to disembark on the zodiac boat (sometimes two or three times a day) and we spent most of our time hiking, snorkeling, or swimming.

Off-ship activities are the focus

Expedition cruises are all about, well, you guessed it, expeditions. I had come with the sole purpose of seeing the Galápagos Islands, which are made up of 13 main islands and several small islands and islets. People flock here for the biodiversity and remoteness of the islands; most are uninhabited, and when we landed on an island, we were the only ones there. 

Each day, there was a full itinerary waiting for us, and I explored several islands during the cruise. The first was Isabela, the largest of the Galápagos Islands. The volcanic island was covered in lush vegetation and it looked like something from a Jurassic Park movie. We sailed around the perimeter of the island, and I saw penguins, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies. Later that afternoon, I went for a glass-bottom boat ride where giant stingrays and sea turtles greeted us.

On Fernandina Island, we hiked the rocky terrain, dodged cacti, and took photos of sea otters just inches from us. My favorite stop was Santa Cruz, the most populated island, which is home to Galápagos National Park and the Charles Darwin Research Center. After visiting both centers, we headed to a tortoise farm, where we had close encounters with giant 100-year-old tortoises. Our last stop was Floreana Island, home to pink flamingos and white sand beaches. 

An open mind and sense of adventure are necessary

Though you could carve out time to relax, an expedition cruise isn’t necessarily for travelers who want to lie by a pool with a cocktail in hand or who need non-stop entertainment. On our cruise, nightly activities included our tour guides hosting educational lectures, and our schedule was packed with activities (some that started as early as 7:30 a.m.).

An expedition cruise is great for those who have already done a bit of traveling and want to go deeper into exploring a location. My cruise was made up of a mix of families, retirees, and professionals in search of adventure. Though it wasn’t a typical cruise experience, this trip ended up making a significant impression on me. The wilderness of the Galápagos Islands coupled with up-close encounters with the wildlife is something I’ll never forget.