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The Kea Chronicles

Find us in the latest OHbaby! Magazine

In the latest Winter issue of OHbaby! Magazine, come along with Kahu De Beer, her husband, and their three daughters as they take a caravan trip around the South Island. From a trip to the Glow Worm Caves in Te Anau, to wandering through the Omarama Clay Cliffs, and embarking on a Milford Sound Fly | Cruise | Fly with us on a crisp bluebird day.

We booked a 'Fly, Cruise, Fly' package with Glenorchy Air and Southern Discoveries for our Milford Sound experience. The complimentary shuttle picked us up from Creeksyde and took us to the airport where we were assigned an experienced pilot who had a wealth of knowledge about Milford and the surrounding areas we flew over. There had been fresh snow overnight and we'd picked a clear day so the view from the windows was out of this world. You felt like you could reach out and touch the white peaks which were sparkling in the morning light. It was by far the most incredible flight we'd ever taken and we felt so tiny in contrast to the vast mountain ranges. We reached the west coast and turned and came in through the Sound which was a magical experience. On the scenic cruise we got to take in the surrounding beauty, feel the spray of majestic waterfalls, and even spotted some fur seals and dolphins! What a day!

To book your Milford Sound Fly | Cruise | Fly adventure, book here.

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Scenic Flights
How long is this trip?

This is a Half Day experience. From check in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 5 to 5 1/2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers. If you have plans immediately either side of your experience with us, please let us know.

What time is best to fly?

It’s always a good time to fly! If the option is there, we would suggest either our 9.00am or 1.30pm departures. Please note, our 1.30pm departure time is only available at certain times of the year. Whilst we cannot guarantee it, Milford Sound can sometimes be a little bit quieter at these times.

What should I bring?

We suggest you bring the following with you to make it a great day out:

  • Any essential medication
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug Spray
  • Camera – make sure it’s fully charged
  • Warm clothing layers – you’ll want to enjoy the open-air viewing decks where it can get chilly
  • Sensible footwear
  • Bottle of water
How long is the scenic flight?

Your flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound are approximately 40 minutes each way.

How long is the cruise?

Your Nature Cruise through Milford Sound with our partners Southern Discoveries is 1 hour 45 mins.

Is food included with the cruise?

No, lunch is not included. When making your booking online, you have the option to add a picnic lunch for an additional cost that will be ready for you on the cruise. We have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options available.

Complimentary tea, coffee and water is available. A selection of small snacks are available to purchase onboard. You are also welcome to bring snacks of your own.

Is there an indoor area on the cruise?

Yes, the cruise has a large indoor area with comfortable seating and tables.

What will I see on the cruise?

Your cruise through Milford Sound is on a boat with a large open-top deck and comfy interior cabins with full-height windows for optimal viewing. Take in the stunning scenery of Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Copper Point, and the Tasman Sea. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins and penguins.

Is the cruise suitable for an infant?

We would say the cruise is suitable for all ages.

Is there a nappy changing facility/station available inside the cruise?

Yes, there is a nappy changing facility onboard the cruise.

What happens if the weather prevents us from flying back to Queenstown?

Our pilots will always look at the forecast for the full duration of your trip and if we feel like the weather may change, we will not leave Queenstown. Due to the weather-dependent nature of flying in the Southern Alps to Milford Sound, it is unfortunate that there are very rare occasions where the forecast changes on us and although uncommon, it can be a case that we are unable to operate the return flight. The safety of our passengers is always our highest priority and in the unlikely event that this ever occurs, we will arrange coach transfers back to Queenstown. We fully appreciate the inconvenience this will cause and do everything we can to look after our passengers.