Milford Sound Observatory, Fiordland, New Zealand

Milford Discovery Centre incorporating Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

Immerse and Discover Milford Sound

Awe-inspiring and spectacular, the Sound's breathtaking views beg further exploration.

The Milford Discovery Centre & Milford Deep Underwater Observatory is the only structure of its kind in the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve and is a rich, captivating experience, both above and below the surface.

Great reasons to visit the Milford Discovery Centre

• Take a journey through the history, geology and wildlife of Milford
• Learn about our culture and heritage from local guides
• View the dramatic Milford Road and Homer Tunnel avalanche videos
• Milford Deep is New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory
• Get uninterrupted 360-degree views of a fascinating undersea world
• See the magnificent rare black coral
• Learn how our support of the Sinbad Sanctuary Project is helping to protect local endangered species

Milford Discovery Centre

New to 2010, the Milford Discovery nurtures your understanding of the natural history, geology, environment and conservation efforts of Milford Sound. Our friendly, knowledgeable guides take you on a journey through the Centre, sharing local stories and facts along the way.

Striking new informative displays and original memorabilia create a unique, interactive learning experience where you can deepen your understanding of glacial formations and the incredible marine life. Learn about magical Maori legends, intrepid explorers and early European tourism. Engage with the history and hardships of the Milford Road and Homer Tunnel build and the struggles of early European settlers.

Milford Deep Underwater Observatory

Life beneath Fiordland waters is truly unique. Milford Deep Underwater Observatory allows visitors to gain a spectacular insight into the Marine Reserve’s rare and beautiful underwater world.

Descend 10 metres underwater into a spacious viewing chamber, with uninterrupted 360-degree views of the ocean. Learn how this extraordinary underwater observatory was constructed and why the location is so unique. Immerse yourself in a mysterious undersea world and encounter the extraordinary rare Black Coral, 300-year-old coral trees and colourful sea creatures that teem just below the surface.

How to get to the Milford Discovery Centre

Simply add it to your Southern Discoveries Cruise
Purchase a Milford Discovery Pass (see overleaf)
Add it to a cruise booked with Real Journeys, Cruize Milford or Mitre Peak Cruises.

Visit one of our information centres in Queenstown, Te Anau or Milford Wharf to find out more or visit our Web site.

Southern Discoveries Cruises

Join Southern Discoveries on a Scenic, Encounter or Discover More cruise. Whether you want to get up close to nature and feel the force of Stirling Falls, or take it a bit more leisurely, we have a range of cruises to suit every timeframe and budget.

Encounter Nature Cruise

The intimate way to experience nature in Milford Sound. Our small nature boat gets you within touching distance of the natural features of this majestic fiord.

Scenic Cruise

The most relaxing way to experience Milford Sound. Marvel at the power and splendour of Stirling Falls as the spray hits the front deck of one of our modern, spacious catamarans.

Discover More Cruise

Get closer, for longer on our great value, all-inclusive Discover More Cruise. On the longest daytime cruise in Milford Sound, go further, see more and learn more.