Milford Sound 1-day tour, New Zealand [Includes Milford Sound cruise and Free Lunch]

Depart Queenstown and travel comfortably along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, into southern farmland to Lake Te Anau, the South Island's lake district.

After morning tea (own expense), travel along the lakeside and into Fiordland National Park. Enter the picturesque Eglinton Valley, a place of ancient alpine forests and gushing waterfalls, and one of New Zealand's only few glacial valleys accessible by road, taking advantage of the photo opportunities offered along the Milford Road, such as the stunning Mirror Lakes, where on calm days the surrounding mountains are perfectly reflected in the still waters and the glaciers have carved their mark on the terrain.

As you cross the main divide of the Southern Alps, you'll see stunning skyline views, with stunning peaks all around you. Stop at Monkey Creek to taste some of the purest water in the world. Travel through the Homer Tunnel, a 1.2-kilometer passage bored into solid rock, under the mountain and through native forest into Milford Sound.

In Milford Sound, board a 1 hour and 45 minute scenic cruise and set off to explore the area of the "Eighth Wonder of the World". On your cruise, you can enjoy a delicious picnic lunch, lush native rainforests cling to the steep cliffs, while wildlife such as seals, penguins and dolphins are regular visitors to the icy waters. Mountains surround the fiord, including Mitre Peak, which rises dramatically from the depths to 1,692 meters above sea level.

Your cruise will take place on a multi-story catamaran, which features extensive outdoor decks so you can get close to nature. Inside, you'll find comfortable seating, and unobstructed views through the windows.

After the cruise, return to Queenstown by coach.