Kayak Milford Sound on a Guided Sea Kayaking Tour
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.
