Nosing directly up to the base of the mighty Stirling Falls stands as the most exhilarating, sensory experience you can have inside Milford Sound. Tumbling 151 meters from a hanging valley nestled between two towering mountains, this massive waterfall drops directly into the deep waters of the fiord. During a cruise, boat captains will deliberately steer the bow of the vessel directly under the falling torrent, showering those brave enough to stand on the deck.
The sheer force of the wind generated by the falling water, combined with the freezing-cold glacial spray, is an absolute rush that leaves everyone laughing and drenched.
One fun fact people love:
Stirling Falls is three times the height of Niagara Falls, and the pure glacial water is said to make you look ten years younger after a spray, which explains the local nickname, "the glacial facial."
Where in Milford Sound is it?
Located on the southern wall of the Milford Sound fiord, accessible only by water.
How to reach:
Accessible by booking any standard scenic or nature boat cruise departing from the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal.
Best time to visit:
Year-round; the waterfall actually becomes much more powerful and exciting to visit during stormy, rainy weather.
Best time of day:
Midday cruises when light penetrates deep into the fiord, occasionally creating brilliant rainbows in the waterfall mist.
Entry fee:
Included in the cost of a standard Milford Sound boat cruise, which ranges from NZD 70 to NZD 130 per person.
Commute difficulty:
Easy; requires no walking as the entire experience takes place from the stable deck of a passenger cruise boat.
Things nobody tells you about this place:
- You will get absolutely soaked if you stand on the outer bow of the boat; bring a high-quality waterproof jacket and a dry change of clothes.
- Keep your camera or phone inside a waterproof sleeve, as the heavy wind-driven spray can easily water-damage electronic devices.
- If you look closely at the rocky ledges right next to the falls, you can often spot Fiordland crested penguins nesting in the damp foliage.
