Starting October 2025, Altitude Tours will offer a new way to experience Milford Sound from Queenstown or Te Anau with the launch of Milford Sound Business Class, created in partnership with long-time tourism operator Real NZ.
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. Known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, deep fiords, and waterfalls that tumble hundreds of metres, it draws travellers from around the world. Visiting Milford Sound and cruising the fiord is often seen as an absolute must-do experience.
We know that the journey to Milford Sound can be a full day, from Queenstown. That is why we have developed Milford Sound Business Class with Real NZ. It is designed for comfort, ease and an upgraded level of experience.
What is Milford Sound Business Class?
Milford Sound Business Class is a premium small group tour from Queenstown, designed for travellers who want to experience the best of Fiordland in total comfort and style.
Guests travel in luxury vehicles with spacious Business Class seating, enjoying a slower-paced itinerary with exclusive stops, expert commentary, and exceptional personal service. Along the way, artisanal food offerings and morning tea are served to elevate the experience beyond the standard.
In Milford Sound, guests board the Sinbad — a modern vessel reserved exclusively for Business Class travellers. With fewer passengers on board, there’s more space, more comfort, and uninterrupted views. This two-hour nature cruise explores the full length of the fiord, guided by one of the region’s most experienced operators. A complimentary local sparkling wine and a refined onboard food experience are included, making the journey as indulgent as it is scenic.
This experience has been crafted for those who value their time, comfort, and the freedom to relax without compromise. It’s a seamless, full-day adventure that removes the stress of self-driving and gives you more time to enjoy the moments that matter.
For an even more memorable day, choose to return to Queenstown by fixed-wing plane, helicopter, or indulge in our exclusive extended helicopter journey, complete with a remote beach landing and glass of champagne — only available to Business Class guests.
Why Tour Instead of Drive?
Self-driving to Milford Sound is possible, but it comes with challenges. The return journey from Queenstown takes around 10 hours through remote alpine terrain, with limited services and few safe places to stop. It can be tiring, and often means the driver misses much of the incredible scenery.
By joining a tour with Altitude Tours, you can sit back, relax, and make the most of the day. Our expert guides know the best photo stops, share local stories, and offer insight into the region you won’t get on your own. Timing is also critical — with a set cruise departure, unexpected delays can throw off your whole day.
We’ve done this thousands of times, and we’re experts at getting it right. Our Milford Sound experience has been named Best of the Best on TripAdvisor for several consecutive years, placing it in the top 1% of things to do worldwide. We deliver award-winning experiences – so you can see more, learn more, and enjoy more with Altitude Tours.
Choose your return journey
Optional Upgrades for For those wanting to enhance their day even further, there are a few options available on the return leg:
Travel back by fixed-wing aircraft, offering a 40-minute scenic flight over Fiordland and Lake Wakatipu
Return by helicopter for a quick and stunning transfer directly to Queenstown
Choose our exclusive extended helicopter experience, which includes a remote beach landing and a glass of champagne. This is only available to Business Class guests
Milford Sound Business Class begins operating in October 2025
Bookings are now open – [Book Here]
How Is Milford Sound Business Class Different?
At Altitude Tours, all of our experiences are designed to be premium, small-group, guide-led, and customer-centric. That commitment remains at the core of everything we do.
Milford Sound Business Class builds on this foundation, offering an extra level of comfort, space, and exclusivity. It’s a more refined way to experience Milford Sound — ideal for those who prefer a slower pace and an elevated journey from start to finish.
Our classic Milford Sound tour delivers exceptional value and an intimate Fiordland experience. Business Class is thoughtfully curated for guests who want to travel in greater style and relax more deeply along the way.
Both tours are high-quality, small-group experiences. The difference lies in the details — enhanced comfort, elevated service, and a few indulgent touches that make the journey even more memorable.
Explore Milford Sound Business Class [here].
Explore our classic Milford Sound experience [here].
