Cruise on the Milford Sound

Fluorescent color, crisp air, and pensive rock faces

By Brandon Wang

December 12^th, 2023

Overview

When you go to a place and buy a ticket for the obvious things that people tell you to do, you usually expect something good— rarely something great.

But Milford Sound / Piopiotahi is one of those places special enough to buck the trend. Ever since New Zealand built the Milford Road, most recommendations and visitors all sing the same tune. And after you've done the thing that everyone else does... yes, it really is that great.

So get in line for a cruise (a metaphorical one, that is— you should book in advance); any company will likely do. Patiently wait your turn to climb on board. It'll be an odd mix of people: some ready for a multi-day hike and others who are there for a leisurely seated ride. All of you are going the same place to do the same thing.

Once onboard, many will make their way to the concessions stand or the free tea and coffee. That'll come later— for now, climb up to the top and summon a youthful energy to squeeze your way up front. After the cruise begins its round trip out to the Tasman Sea, the wind whips at your face and the roar in your ears makes it difficult to hear the captain's narration. Smile, hug your friends close, hold the railing even closer, and take it all in.

A brief observation

The weather transitioned greatly as we traversed the fjord, and that is apparently quite common. Over the hour-long journey, we encountered at different times all of foggy, cloudy, and sunny conditions.

The clouds generally stay lower than the peaks of the surrounding mountains. When there's full cloud cover, the color of the water takes on a greener hue and the mountains feel more rugged and pensive. When the sun is out, the water brightened, particularly when there were snowy peaks nearby.