I was soooo glad we booked a kayak trip to Milford Sound rather than an impersonal coach ride/boat cruise that seems to be the norm.
We went with the "Day Safari" which included transport from our B&B in Te Anau (about two hours each way), about four hours on the water (the Sunriser Classic trip), and all the gear to stay warm and dry). It was actually quite a good value considering it was a full day activity (pricing was something like $189 pp in NZ dollars which is like $145 in US dollars). Due to the nature of the sport/tour, the group was small and personal (eight people/four kayaks plus the guide).
This trek leaves super early due to weather typically being more favorable in the morning and fewer cruise ships on the sound. We were down at the end of the driveway for pick up at 5:45 and it was still completely dark out. At least we got to see some stars! We were the last ones on the van with our guide Abi driving. She offered a bit of commentary on the Te Anau/Fiordland National Park area, but mostly let us sleep (which was good, because van rides - on winding roads, no less - make me woozy). We had one foggy stop once we exited the tunnel and another once we got to Milford Lodge. At the main launch point for the kayaks, they have all the equipment in a big tent where you change into a striped thermal get-up, a fleece pullover, a yellow rain jacket, a life jacket and the thing that keeps you secure in the kayak. I was worried about not having the right apparel for the conditions, but was warm, comfortable, and mostly dry for our trip (and because only my hands/face were exposed, I wasn't bothered by the infamous sandflies TOO much, although I still recommend bug spray for your neck/hands and any other body part that may eventually be exposed). We also got a dry bag for our phones and snacks and there was room on the kayak to strap on our water bottles. From there we did a quick lesson on paddling/what to do in the event of a capsize (which is very rare, apparently) and then set out!
We almost immediately saw a seal and it swam right by our kayak! Abi led us around the main part of Milford Sound - apparently it goes on for quite a ways out to sea. It started out a little cloudy in the morning, but the clouds slowly lifted revealing the spectacular scenery that Milford is known for. About midway through, we stopped at a beach and Dave and I switched kayak positions. We had perfect weather and a great seal-filled tour.
After kayaking, we had about a half hour lunch break at the lodge. We brought our own lunch as we were unsure what to expect, but they do have a little cafe with espresso drinks, beer, pastries, and filled bread pockets. Our drive back was much longer as the conditions were more ideal for some Fiordland roadside sightseeing. Waterfalls at every turn and even a stream ideal for refilling your water bottle with cold, clear glacier water (the best ever after a long day outside, I might add).
Abi was a great guide. Super knowledgeable and I could tell she was really passionate about her job and the area. We encountered some of the other guides as well and they all seemed young and super fun. The whole operation seemed well run and organized without being automatic and impersonal.
Now that we're a bit more seasoned sea kayakers, I would definitely go for a longer trip next time so we can see a bit more of the sound. But the Day Safari was the perfect intro to kayaking and Fiordland for beginners, while still providing a fair amount of a workout and adventure. I'd highly recommend kayaking Milford Sound (over the AYCE buffet on a cruise boat with 100 other people) and booking it with Rosco's. read more
