Southern Discoveries or RealNZ Which Milford Sound Cruise is the best?

[Anna]

I am visiting Milford sounds as part of my 14 days vacation to New Zealand. Just got confused with the cruise companies operating in Milford Sounds. I can see many cruise ships and shorten the list to either Southern Discoveries or RealNZ. So if you have travelled in any of these ships, please share your experience.

[Sarah]

I would NOT RECOMMEND SOUTHERN DISCOVERIES

The cruise was ok, but the service – booking and post trip was poor! We were booked to do the cruise and discovery and only could do the cruise as the power was out and they said we would get a refund. When we went to the desk they said to email the booking office and we did just that and they refused to refund us which is totally illegal. Every booking agent I’ve spoken to since are shocked with how we were treated.
When trying to book they said they had no spots and when we rang back 5+ minutes later when we saw heaps available online on their website they said “oh they just became available”
So with this experience I’d choose a different company!

[Oliver Smith]

Just did Milford with southern discoveries and it was great! Not crowded at all, but then again December is more busy so a smaller cruise might be more enjoyable. We drove from Te Anau and took us about 2 hours with some stops. Would probably be best to allocate 2-2.5 hours

[Brendon]

We did milford sounds last week (18 Augusr 2022), i booked tickets via grabone and the contacted the operator who were Real NZ tours, we caught the bus from Te Anau site. Definitely the best way to see all the sights without worrying about driving, the coach driver Ian was very informative about the history and area of milford sound. Its about a 2 hour our trip including photo stops along the way. Then another 2 hour boat trip, the staff, at and onboard NZ Real Tours were outstanding and very friendly, we had a wet day on the sounds but thats when the magic starts with all the amazing waterfalls, even had dolpins come to play. Definitely worth booking with these guys, Milford Sounds has a ‘WOW” factor. We will be back.

[Author]

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