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Southern Discoveries is expanding its Milford Sound product range with two new small-group experiences set to launch in October.
Bookings for the new journeys open this week as the company continues to shift towards more personalised and higher-value visitor experiences.
Southern Discoveries, which has operated in Milford Sound for more than 70 years, says the new offerings build on its fully guided end-to-end travel model.
Southern Discoveries chief executive Kerry Walker says the company is continuing to evolve how guests experience Milford Sound.
“We’ve been operating in Milford Sound for decades, and our experiences continue to evolve over time,” Kerry says.
“These new small-group journeys give guests more choice, while keeping the journey with one operator from beginning to end.”
Kerry says the company’s ownership of both transport and cruise operations remains a key differentiator.
“The introduction of new Mercedes Sprinter vehicles allows us to deliver these experiences in smaller groups and with a more personalised style of travel,” Kerry says.
Two new experiences
The first product, Small Group Travel & Discover More Cruise, combines return transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau in a Mercedes Sprinter with Southern Discoveries’ Milford Sound Discover More Cruise.
The second experience, Small Group Travel & Captain’s VIP Lounge, represents the company’s most premium Milford Sound product to date.
The experience includes Mercedes Sprinter transfers alongside exclusive access to the Captain’s VIP Lounge onboard Pride of Milford.
Southern Discoveries says the lounge is currently the only fully private cabin available on any Milford Sound cruise vessel.
Guests will receive priority boarding, all-inclusive food and beverages, a dedicated onboard host and access to private indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
Focus on hosted travel
Kerry says the VIP offering reflects growing demand for fully hosted premium experiences.
“Captain’s VIP is something we’re genuinely excited about,” Kerry says.
“It’s fully hosted and designed to remove friction from the day, including having a private space onboard the cruise, while still delivering the same local knowledge and care our team is known for.”
Kerry says expanding guided travel options may also help reduce the number of visitors driving themselves to Milford Sound.
“Providing both large-scale and small-group options encourages more visitors to leave the car behind,” Kerry says.
“With our experienced drivers handling a road that demands full attention, guests can keep their focus on the scenery instead.”
