I can’t quite grasp why it’s hailed as one of New Zealand’s top six attractions, with the unique selling point being the apocalyptic view on a rainy day [laugh-cry]. But when it actually rains, the road becomes a real challenge to navigate.
Starting from Queenstown, the round trip by car takes over 7 hours. While it’s often praised for its scenic beauty, the reality is that the views are just average. The South Island is brimming with breathtaking landscapes, and this route doesn’t particularly stand out.
The boat itself is a rather unremarkable two-story vessel, capable of holding a few dozen passengers, with a bar offering light refreshments. The entire journey lasts about two hours, and the ticket sets you back more than 600 yuan (excluding meals). Essentially, it’s a loop around a few waterfalls. Having seen many waterfalls in China, I found nothing particularly special or unique here.
To add to the experience, I even got seasick, though this varies from person to person. Out of our group of four, I was the only one who felt ill. If you’re prone to motion sickness, I strongly recommend taking medication beforehand. I always thought I only got carsick, not seasick, so I was overconfident and skipped the meds, which resulted in me sleeping through most of the trip.
In summary, this excursion felt more like “paying for suffering” for me. If you’re considering this trip solely for the “apocalyptic” scenery, I genuinely wouldn’t recommend it.
I had no idea the drive to Milford Sound could be so challenging! The rain definitely adds an intense atmosphere, but I can see how it might not be for everyone. It’s interesting that the guide highlights both the beauty and the less glamorous parts of visiting. Definitely makes me think twice about renting a car for this trip.