Accommodation at Milford Sound: quaint lodges and overnight cruises

Milford Sound is the unofficial 8th wonder of the world, and honestly, I can see why. But when it comes to accommodation at Milford Sound, then there’s not a lot of choice!

It’s an area of pristine beauty, wildlife, and of course my personal favourite, the land of 1000 waterfalls.

Trust me on this one; you’ll want to stay overnight if you can.

Most people only experience Milford Sound for a few hours, and it’s worth much more than that.

Driving to Milford Sound? Check out the scenic road trip to Milford Sound!

The weather is quite changeable in the mountains, and we found that it changed quite quickly from beautiful weather, to severe weather warnings.

It’s often really misty and cloudy at Milford Sound (also known in Maori as Piopiotahi), so if you have enough time to spend 1-2 days here, then you will have a higher chance of seeing it in all its beauty.

And of course, you’ll have more time to appreciate it!

Travelling to New Zealand?

Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel guides for things to do in North Island and South Island!

Not sure where to go? Have a look at my article on North VS South Island New Zealand, which is better?

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Table of Contents

Car & Campervan Rental

It’s recommended that you either hire yourself, a camper van or a car, so you can explore South Island & Milford Sound at your heart’s desire on an epic road trip NZ South Island.

Depending on what time of year it can be really busy so it is worth looking at your stay well in advance. Bear in mind cost of hotels on your itinerary South Island New Zealand.

Car Rental South Island

Milford Sound

Milford Sound is one of the most breathtaking places in this planet, and if you can spend a bit of time here, it’s an absolute must.

Most people visit Milford Sound for a few hours on a one day trip, and frankly, it’s not enough! If you’re driving to Milford Sound, check out the scenic road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound! And if you can stay, the accommodation at Milford Sound is second to none! Both options are great!

There are some incredible hiking trails in the Fiordland National Park, and the views are unreal.

There’s not that many options when it comes to accommodation at Milford Sound, to be honest with you! There’s the Milford Sound Lodges and the Overnight Cruise.

So let’s get straight to it!

Accommodation at Milford Sound

Can you stay at Milford Sound?

Yes, you can, but it’s EXTREMELY limited!

There are basically only TWO places to stay at in Milford Sound.

The Milford Sound Lodge OR the Overnight Cruise.

Milford Sound is a pretty remote area and is also protected, meaning there isn’t a tonne of developments in the area. If you’re not keen on staying here, it might be best to stay somewhere like Te Anau which is closer to

Milford Sound Lodge

The Milford Sound lodges are something that will make a memory that lasts and is definitely a bit of luxury here in this remote area! One of only two places to stay; the accommodation at Milford Sound is pretty limited!

This log cabin come chalet is the most adorable place you’ll want to stay at!

The views are frankly, second to none, and their huge windows mean you can watch sunrise and sunset of some of the most beautiful places on the planet.

It’s rated exceptionally highly on Booking.com and it’s not hard to see why.

Accommodation at Milford Sound Lodge — Milford Sound Lodge

Milford Sound Overnight Cruises

The Milford Sound overnight cruise – the Fiordland Discovery – is that of luxury, if you can spare the time on your South Island itinerary. It’s definitely one of the best places for accommodation at Milford Sound!

The rating of the Milford Sound Cruise is 9.6 on Booking – it’s very highly rated!

You get to sail around in some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes on this planet.

The mountain rises straight out of the ocean, meaning the depth of the waters exceeds 300m, meaning cruises can sail close to the water edges without any issues.

Away from the day crowds you’ll get to enjoy the beautiful surroundings; see the landscape in different lights, from the golden hues of sunset to the serene, still dawn.

Book the overnight cruise

What to Expect on an Overnight Cruise

This is probably the most memorable accomodation at Milford Sound!

Scenery and Wildlife: As the tourists depart, the fiords become even more tranquil. The towering mountains, waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen falls, and Mitre Peak take on a different character under the changing light. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and Fiordland penguins, especially in the early morning and late evening.

Dining: These cruises usually include dinner and breakfast, served in a communal dining area. Meals are often a highlight, with menus designed with local ingredients.

Stargazing: On clear nights, the very low levels of light pollution means you get the change for some epic stargazing. The southern skies can dazzle with constellations, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the Southern Lights, or Aurora Australis.

Tips for Your Overnight Cruise

Pack for All Weather conditions: Fiordland’s weather is famously changeable. My experience was insane – there was a severe weather warning. Bring layers, including waterproof and warm clothing, to ensure you’re comfortable no matter the conditions. Even in summer!
Bring a Camera: The scenery is breathtaking, and you’ll want to capture the memories. Consider bringing extra batteries or a power bank, as you’ll likely be taking many photos.
Book in Advance: Overnight cruises are limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Early booking is recommended to secure your spot.
Travel Sustainably: Milford Sound is a precious ecosystem. Choose operators committed to environmental sustainability and consider how you can minimize your impact during your visit.
Enjoy the Tranquility: One of the most remarkable aspects of an overnight cruise is the profound peace and quiet, especially at night and early morning. Take time to disconnect, listen to the sounds of nature, and soak in the majestic landscape.

New Zealand Milford Sound cruise — Milford Sound Cruise

Te Anau Accomodation

If you’re driving to Milford Sound, check out the scenic road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound, including a tonne of stops near Te Anau!

If you don’t want to stay in either of these two options, it’s probably best to stay at Te Anau, which is the closest town, around 2 hours away. There are a few places to stay here, with excellent camping facilities too!

Te Anau Accommodation

Camping at Milford Sound

There is no camping at Milford Sound!

Due to its placement within a national park and being part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, freedom camping is strictly prohibited at Milford Sound.

The accommodation at Milford Sound is super limited, so best to choose the lodge, the overnight cruise, or head back to Te Anau.

Milford Sound Map

Have a look and save Milford Sound to your google maps!

Milford Sound Weather

Here is the average weather on the South Island by each month. The South Island of New Zealand experiences a diverse climate, with the west coast receiving high rainfall and the east coast being drier and cooler.

Seasonal temperatures vary widely, from warm, sunny summers to cold, snowy winters, especially in the mountainous regions.

South Island Weather in January

Average temperature: 15°C (59°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 15
Average sunrise time: 6:15 AM
Average sunset time: 9:30 PM

South Island Weather in February

Average temperature: 14°C (57°F)
Average rainy days: 7
Average daylight hours: 14
Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
Average sunset time: 9:00 PM

South Island Weather in March

Average temperature: 12°C (54°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 12
Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
Average sunset time: 8:15 PM

South Island Weather in April

Average temperature: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 11
Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:45 PM

South Island Weather in May

Average temperature: 6°C (43°F)
Average rainy days: 10
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:15 AM
Average sunset time: 5:30 PM

South Island Weather in June

Average temperature: 4°C (39°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
Average sunset time: 5:15 PM

South Island Weather in July

Average temperature: 3°C (37°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 9
Average sunrise time: 8:30 AM
Average sunset time: 5:30 PM

South Island Weather in August

Average temperature: 5°C (41°F)
Average rainy days: 11
Average daylight hours: 10
Average sunrise time: 7:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:00 PM

South Island Weather in September

Average temperature: 7°C (45°F)
Average rainy days: 10
Average daylight hours: 12
Average sunrise time: 6:45 AM
Average sunset time: 6:30 PM

South Island Weather in October

Average temperature: 9°C (48°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 13
Average sunrise time: 7:15 AM
Average sunset time: 7:45 PM

South Island Weather in November

Average temperature: 11°C (52°F)
Average rainy days: 8
Average daylight hours: 14
Average sunrise time: 6:00 AM
Average sunset time: 8:30 PM

South Island Weather in December

Average temperature: 13°C (55°F)
Average rainy days: 9
Average daylight hours: 15
Average sunrise time: 5:45 AM
Average sunset time: 9:15 PM

Quick links

Here’s everything I use when I travel abroad:

Tours – Compare tour prices on Viator and Get Your Guide

Hotels – I always use Booking as the more hotels I book, I get a higher Genius discount. I also compare prices on Expedia.

E-Sims – purchase an e-sim with Airalo on your phone so you can make calls and have mobile data abroad! There’s no need to remove your current sim card!

Travel insurance – don’t ever go on vacation without travel insurance, you never know when you might need it!

Travel essentials – have a look at a full list of travel essentials that I use, including the best power bank!

Have a look at some of my other Aotearoa / New Zealand travel guides for things to do in North Island and South Island!

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