A visit to New Zealand’s south island isn’t complete without seeing the incredibly stunning Milford Sound. For me, this almost didn’t happen. Thankfully the clouds parted and left me with one of my favourite excursions from my year+ trip – Milford Sound with Real journeys.
Bitter Start
“It never snows in Queenstown.” This common phrase played through my head as I trudged through the white stuff on my way to where my Milford Sound with Real Journeys trip was to depart. I was bitter. Not from the cold nor from the wet feet. I was upset that my Milford Sound with Real Journeys tour was in jeopardy of being canceled and I had no buffer to rebook – all because “it never snows in Queenstown.”
To my surprise, we boarded the Milford Sound with Real Journeys Tour bus and slowly made our way through the sloppy streets. “We’re going to try,” said our cheerful and knowledgeable guide/bus driver. I wasn’t feeling very optimistic and nodded off only to wake up the blue skies and rays of sunshine.
Hallelujah.
What a Ride
When we boarded the Milford Sound with Real Journeys glass roof top bus I thought that the see-through ceiling was just a gimmick. I was so very wrong.
Never have I experienced a ride this scenic and this comfortable. This made the 4-hour journey enjoyable and a breeze. Stops at Mirror Lake and Te Anau helped stretch the legs and capture some unforgettable views.
What a Cruise
After the descending drive from Homer Tunnel (worth the trip alone!), we arrived at our Milford Sound with Real Journeys tour boat departure point. We boarded the “Sinbad” and were treated to 2 hours of waterfalls, wildlife, and incredibly lucky weather conditions – all where mountains dramatically meet the sea. Pictures and words really can’t describe but I will try.
Seriously. Waterfalls, rainbows, seals, penguins, dolphins, glaciers, and glistening water. Take it easy New Zealand. You’re ruining it for the rest of the world.
Our Milford Sound with Real Journeys boat tour flew by with comfort. On board were complementary soup and hot beverages that kept us warm while taking it all in from Sinbad’s decks. Can’t stress this enough. It was awesome.
What a Day
Although it may seem like a journey, this day felt way too short. I would have driven twice the distance to experience Milford Sound. Touring Milford Sound with Real Journeys takes away the stress of winter driving which makes it more than worth the ticket price. Doing so from the comforts of a glass top ceiling coach just makes the stunning journey extraordinary.
Milford Sound with Real Journeys Good to Know
Tour Cost: $180 NZD with coach to/from Queenstown (Nature Cruise)
Includes: Transfer, friendly guide, and boat tour.
Don’t Miss: Mountains, waterfalls, and the bus views!
What say you?
Thoughts on visiting Milford sound with Real Journeys?
Let’s hear it!
For more reviews from New Zealand and beyond see HERE.
— Real Journeys on Facebook —
— Real Journeys on Twitter —
Although I was provided a complimentary tour to Milford Sound with Real Journeys,
the experience, opinions, and amazing bus ride were my own.
