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Why book a scenic flight after walking the Milford Track?

Our friends at Fiordland Outdoors have recently written about the reasons why you should book a scenic flight with us after finishing the Milford Track. Here are some highlights below. Click here to read the full blog. 

Flightpath and highlights.

After tackling the Milford Track on foot the Glenorchy Air fleet will meet you at the airport, store your bags and fly you fly high above the national park and the immense wilderness area you have walked through.

 

Take off past Mitre Peak and follow the typical flight path (weather depending), including highlights such as a flight over the Arthur Valley and down to the awe-inspiring Sutherland Falls. From there, you will pass Lake Iceberg, Lake Erskine (has to be seen to be believed) and have clear views of Mt Tutoko and Lake Te Anau. As your cross over the Earl mountains and the Eglinton Valley, sit back and relax as Lake Whakatipu comes into view and your final destination is within reach. Snap some incredible shots from a bird’s eye view to complete one of the most epic adventures in your lifetime. Does that sound like the perfect way to end your iconic Milford Track hike?

Why take a scenic flight?

  • Skip the 5-hour bus ride from Milford Sound to Queenstown
  • Includes drop-off to your Queenstown accommodation
  • Arrive back in Queenstown by 4 pm with plenty of time to relax
  • Milford Sound Airport is just a short walk from the boat drop-off point

Ready to book your Milford Track Transport?

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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.