Kayak Milford Sound on a Guided Sea Kayaking Tour

Experience Milford Sound from water level on a fully guided sea kayaking tour through one of New Zealand’s most spectacular fjords. Paddle beneath towering granite cliffs, drift past cascading waterfalls, and explore quiet bays unreachable by cruise boats.

Led by the longest-running kayak operator in Fiordland, this small-group experience includes expert local guides, quality equipment, and a relaxed pace — making it one of the most immersive ways to explore Milford Sound.

Explore Milford Sound by Kayak with Fiordland’s Most Experienced Guides

Kayak Milford Sound on a Guided Sea Kayaking Tour

Discover Milford Sound from water level on a fully guided sea kayaking tour with Rosco’s Milford Kayaks, Fiordland’s longest-running kayak operator. Paddle beneath towering granite cliffs, drift past cascading waterfalls, and explore quiet bays that cruise boats can’t reach.

With expert local guides, small group sizes, and tour options suitable for beginners through to experienced paddlers, this is one of the most immersive ways to experience Milford Sound.

Most people book this experience as a calm, guided alternative to Milford Sound cruises, offering closer wildlife encounters and a quieter connection with the fiord.

Best for:
Nature lovers, first-time visitors to Milford Sound, and travellers wanting a quieter, guided experience away from large cruise boats.

Good for:
Beginner kayakers, active travellers, photographers, families with teenagers, and visitors short on time in Fiordland.

Kayaking Trips on Milford Sound: Rosco's Kayaking Tour Options

Sunriser Kayak Classic on Milford Sound

Price: $205 per person (suitable age 14+)
Departs: 7.30am to 10am depending on time of year and sunrise. (From Milford Sound)
Duration: 3.5 hours paddling – 10 Kms

Paddle Rating: Moderate

Rosco’s most popular year-round excursion. Paddle a scenic loop of Milford Sound, taking in waterfalls, cliff walls, and marine wildlife. Ideal for beginners and confident first-timers.

Perfect For You If:

You want a classic Milford kayak experience
You’re comfortable paddling for 3.5 hours
You prefer a moderate adventure without entering the sea
You have basic water confidence and fitness

Day Kayak Safari on Milford Sound

Price: $259 per person (age 14+)
Departs: 6:45 am to 7:45 am depending on time of year and sunrise (Transport from Te Anau)
Duration: 3.5 hours paddling – 10 Kms

Paddle Rating: Moderate

Enjoy the Sunriser Classic plus a guided scenic drive from Te Anau. A great all-in-one experience showcasing Fiordland’s alpine landscapes and the fiord itself.

Perfect For You If:

You’d love a guided road trip to Milford Sound
You want to paddle but also enjoy the journey
You prefer convenient door-to-door transport

The following Milford Sound Kayak Tours Available summer months only (November - April)

Milford Track Paddle & Walk

Price: $180 per person (age 16+) Transport can be added from Te Anau
Departs: 2:00 pm and returns approx 7:30 pm (Deepwater Basin)
Duration: 1 hour return paddle (3KM). 3.5 hour return walk (10KM)
Paddle Rating: Easiest

Two iconic experiences in one: paddle to Sandfly Point, then enjoy a peaceful section of the world-famous Milford Track.

Perfect For You If:

You’re a beginner wanting an easy paddle
You prefer not to head deep into the fiord
You love scenic, crowd-free walks

Kayak to the Stirling Falls Sunriser

Price: $320 per person (age 16+) Transport can be added from Te Anau
Departs: 9:00 am and returns approx 2:00 pm (Deepwater Basin Milford Sound)
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours paddling – 12 Kms
Paddle rating: Tough

Take a water taxi toward Stirling Falls and paddle beneath the towering waterfall — an epic Fiordland adventure for thrill-seekers.

Perfect For You If:

You’re ready for up to 4 hours of paddling
You have strong fitness and water confidence
You want a thrilling small-group experience

Morning Glory (Paddle to the sea)

Price: $325 per person (age 16+)
Departs: 9:00 am and returns approx 2:00 pm (Deepwater Basin)
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours plus paddling – 18 Kms

Paddle rating: Tough

EXPECT: Wind & Waves. Prior Kayak Experience is a MUST for this Trip.

“Kayak the full length of Milford”

Kayak the full length of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea on this fast-paced morning adventure, returning by water taxi.

Perfect For You If:

You want to paddle the full length of Milford
You enjoy early-morning calm conditions
You have strong fitness and kayak experience

Twilighter Wind & Waves

Price: $310 per person (age 16+) Transport can be added from Te Anau
Departs: 9:00 am and returns approx 2:00 pm (Deepwater Basin)
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours plus paddling – 12 Kms
Paddle rating: Tough

EXPECT: Wind & Waves. Prior Kayak Experience is a MUST for this Trip.
“Adventure paddling at its best”

A thrilling afternoon paddle following the Stirling Sunriser route — but with wind, waves, and kayak surfing for extra excitement.

Perfect For You If:

You enjoy challenging sea conditions
You have excellent kayak skills and fitness
You love adrenaline and dramatic scenery

Milford Cruiser

Price: $269 per person (age 16+)
Departs: 2:00 pm and returns approx 7:30 pm (Deepwater Basin)
Duration: 3 hours paddling 5 kms approx &
Paddle Rating: Easiest.

A short, scenic paddle offering postcard views of Milford Sound and Lady Bowen Falls — perfect for beginners or those short on time.

Perfect For You If:

You want a relaxed introduction to kayaking
You’re happy with 1.5–2 hours paddling
You prefer not to venture far into the fiord
You have lower fitness or water confidence

Afternoon Delight Kayaking

Price: $320 per person (age 16+)
Departs: 9:00 am and returns approx 7:30 pm (Deepwater Basin)
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours plus paddling – 18 Kms

Paddle Rating: The Toughest

A challenging, afternoon paddle from the Tasman Sea back through the length of Milford Sound — perfect for strong, experienced paddlers.

Perfect For You If:

You have prior rough-sea kayak experience
You’re ready for 4+ hours of hard paddling
You love an adventurous challenge with dramatic views

What’s Included

3–5 hours paddling in double kayaks
All kayaking equipment (paddles, spray skirts, life vests)
Dry bags provided
Experienced local guides
Day Safari includes Te Anau transport

Duration:

Milford trips: Allow 5–6 hours
Day Safari: Allow 11 hours

Departures:

Early morning or mid-afternoon
All trips depart from Milford Sound (except Day Safari)
Sunriser Classic runs all year; others operate Oct–Apr

Milford’s Wildlife and Scenery Highlights

Kayaking offers the chance to see native wildlife up close — playful fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins, little blue penguins, and sometimes bottlenose dolphins. Towering cliffs, lush rainforest, and cascading waterfalls create unforgettable scenery from water level.

Know Before You Go:

Wear warm, breathable layers
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle
All equipment is provided
Tours operate rain or shine — this is Fiordland!

Milford Sound Kayaking – Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need kayaking experience to join a Milford Sound kayaking tour?

No prior kayaking experience is required for beginner-friendly Milford Sound kayak tours. Experienced guides provide instruction and support throughout the trip, while more advanced tours are clearly marked for confident and experienced paddlers.

Is kayaking in Milford Sound safe?

Yes. Guided kayaking tours in Milford Sound are led by experienced local operators who closely monitor weather, tides, and conditions. All safety equipment is provided, and tours are matched to suitable skill levels.

How does kayaking compare to a Milford Sound cruise?

Kayaking offers a quieter, more immersive way to experience Milford Sound. You’ll explore areas cruise boats can’t reach, paddle at water level beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls, and enjoy closer wildlife encounters.

What wildlife might I see while kayaking in Milford Sound?

Wildlife sightings often include fur seals, Fiordland crested penguins, little blue penguins, and occasionally bottlenose dolphins. Sightings vary depending on the season and conditions on the day.

Are Milford Sound kayaking tours suitable for families?

Some Milford Sound kayaking tours are suitable for families with teenagers, typically aged 14 years and over, depending on the tour option. Easier paddles are available, while more challenging trips are designed for experienced kayakers.

Nearby Te Anau Activities to Enhance Your Adventure

Remote Waitutu Lodge

Experience one of Fiordland’s most secluded retreats at Waitutu Lodge, set deep on the South Coast beside untouched rainforest and the wild Wairaurahiri River. A true off-grid escape where nature, solitude, and adventure meet.
More information here.

Wairaurahiri River Jet

Journey down one of New Zealand’s most remote and powerful rivers on a high-adrenaline jet boat ride from Lake Hauroko to the rugged South Coast. Rapids, rainforest, beaches and wildlife combine to create an unforgettable Fiordland adventure.
More information here.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Cruise across Lake Te Anau before entering a surreal world of sculpted limestone passages, roaring underground waterfalls, and thousands of sparkling glowworms. A relaxing, atmospheric experience perfect before or after your Milford Sound adventure.
More information here.

Explore More Around Te Anau & Fiordland

Fiordland is a region full of unforgettable contrasts — from dramatic fiords and wild rivers to serene lakes and lush rainforest. Whether you’re paddling Milford Sound, exploring glowworm caves, or venturing to the remote South Coast, there’s always something new to discover. Continue exploring the best of Te Anau and Fiordland with these recommended experiences and local highlights.