Re: Best Milford Sound Cruise

The Friendship is smaller and tends to stay closer to the shore
The other two operators use larger boats (catering for the tourist buses)
And follow each other up and back down the centre of the Sound
But that said - the viewing is still superb, and they do go in for some
"closeups"

We did not do the underwater observatory, so cannot comment - but it does
add a fair bit of time to the excursion - the boat drops you off on the way
back, and I presume you are collected by the next boat that comes through -
if time is an issue - it would pay to check before you commit.
If you are driving yourself (and this is highly recommended) arrive in time
for the morning sailing (10am from memory) and beat the crowds from the
tourist buses that a catered for on the midday sailing.

Also in that area - be very aware of the sandflies - use repellant
You do not feel them when they bite - but the pain and itch is with you for
days later

"Rincon" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote in message
news:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> Which of the three Milford sound cruise trip operators is the best. Or are
> all about the same. Is the observatory a must see? Anyone have preferences
> or recommendations. Thanks for any info.
>