Is sea kayaking Milford Sound for me?
If you’re keen to escape the crowded tour boats and really get amongst nature with a local guide then YES! We welcome first time paddlers and pros alike! With a choice of six totally different adventures, there’s a trip to suit everyone.
Is there a minimum age?
You must be at least 14 years old to sea kayak with us, and 16 years old to take one of our water taxi assisted trips.
That said, this can still be too young for some of the longer/harder paddles, so you may be moved to a more suitable trip on the day. Our guides use their discretion, based on years of experience, to assess younger paddlers' ability and weather conditions and match you up with the most appropriate trip on the day. Proof of age may be requested before your trip commences.
How many people do you take in your groups?
Our groups are always small, usually six to eight paddlers with a local guide. So it’s a good idea to book early and avoid missing out.
Can I rent a kayak to explore Milford Sound by myself?
Nope. Unfortunately our concession to operate in Milford Sound does not allow for rental options.
Which trip is right for me?
That will depend on the adventure you are considering! We have a range of trips available to suit every level of fitness and kayaking ability. Our paddle rating indicates how easy or tough each trip can be. Make sure to read the full trip descriptions. Spaces are limited, so please choose with care - we cannot refund you if your guide deems you unsuitable to paddle.
How fit do I need to be?
If you are in good health and have completed a few of NZ's half-day hikes, you should be sweet! Kayaking is a physical activity so it will require some effort at times - that's why we have a variety of trips to suit everyone. Any pain is soon rewarded with spectacular views and a memorable adventure.
If you have any physical conditions you are concerned about (injuries, medical conditions, poor swimming ability/confidence, general fitness, pregnancy), please disclose these to your guide prior to your trip departure.
Please get in touch if you’re still unsure which trip is for you or if you have any physical conditions you are concerned about.
Can I kayak if I'm pregnant?
We can't guarantee that kayaking while pregnant at any time will be safe for you and your baby, so you do so at your own risk.
However, if you are active and normally kayak, there should be no issues, given an uncomplicated pregnancy.
Please observe the following:
- You must disclose your condition to your guide prior to your trip departure.
- You must fit our kayak equipment comfortably in order to participate.
- If the guide deems you unsuitable for the trip and weather conditions on the day, the Operator reserves the right to alter, rebook or cancel your trip.
- If you are beyond 28 weeks, you must have a letter/certificate from your medical professional stating it is safe for you to kayak, confirming your pregnancy dates and that there are no complications.
Please note: You may feel uncomfortable at times and Milford Sound has limited beaches to stop on for stretching and toilet breaks.
What if the weather is bad?
Your safety and well-being are our top priority. Strong winds can cause us to cancel sea kayaking trips from time to time. Rain on the otherhand is “sweet as” and all trips will proceed as normal, just be prepared to witness some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls!
What time of year should I come?
Kayaking in Milford Sound is an amazing experience no matter what time of year you decide to try it. We’ve summed up some of the general differences in the seasons for you below.
Winter (April – October)
- More settled weather conditions usually result in very calm water – ideal for exploring Milford from a sea kayak.
- Fewer crowds make winter the premium time to visit Milford Sound.
- Fewer motor boats cruising Milford Sound mean more peace and tranquility – just the splash of our paddles.
- More photo opportunities, with mirror-like reflections of famous icons like mile high Mitre Peak.
- Fewer sandflies - often none at all - make your day in paradise even better!
Summer (November – March)
- Long daylight hours allow us to operate a number of sunrise and twilight trips which allow us to dodge the noise of tour boats, planes and helicopters.
- There is more time to fit in other Milford Sound experiences such as walking on the famous ‘Milford Track’ and various other alpine walks in the park. Checkout our range of kayaking combos to make the most of your time here.
What do I need to bring in my bag?
- Camera (no drones)
- Sunscreen
- Lip balm SPF15
- Insect repellent
- Shorts
- Soft shoes or sandals
- Sunglasses
- Warm clothing
- Wool or fleece hat
- Waterproof jacket
- Lunch and high energy snack foods
- Towel
- Change of clothes
What is provided?
We kit you out with all the specialist paddling gear including buoyancy aid, spray skirt, spray jacket, thermals, fleece and poggies (like gloves but better) and a dry bag for your camera. Quality sea kayaks with foot operated rudders help make exploring Milford Sound a pretty amazing experience.
Will I capsize?
Not usually – capsizes are fairly rare as our double kayaks are seriously stable. But if you do capsize your guide will be close by to help you back into your kayak quickly. You will also receive a full safety briefing prior to your trip commencing.
What is the difference between a boat cruise and a kayak trip on Milford Sound?
Hands down there’s no comparison! Our sea kayaks can go places the cruise boats can only dream of! This allows you to get up close and personal with our world famous fiord and all of its inhabitants minus the noise and crowds. Even Lonely Planet rates Rosco’s Milford Kayaks the best way to experience Milford Sound.
Why the early starts in Summer?
Three of our trips start fairly early in the early summer (Nov – Feb) our Day Safari (5.45am), Morning Glory and Sunriser Classic (7.15am). All of these trips seek to maximise quality paddling conditions on the water in relation to the length of the trip. Every fine, sunny day during summer months results in a strong day breeze developing mid to late morning which can make conditions fairly challenging. Our early starts make the most of the calmer water conditions for excellent photo opportunities and brilliant wildlife observing.
Why Roscos?
- Local Guides – we don’t just work here, we live here too. Let us show you round our backyard!
- 28 Years Experience – You’re in very safe hands with the pioneers of commercial sea kayaking in Milford Sound.
- Owner operated – we’re a small team of passionate kayaking guides with a love for Milford Sound.
- More trips – We offer a variety of trips to suit everybody. Choose the one that suits you and book early so you don’t miss out.
What is your Cancellation/Refund Policy?
Cancellations made at least 48 hours in advance will receive a full refund
No refund will be given in the event of the following:
- Less than 48 hours notice
- No show or late for departure
- Staff deem a client not suitable to participate due to ill health or intoxication
- Staff deem a client not suitable to participate due to lack of kayaking ability / experience / physical fitness / age.
We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance which will cover you against potential cancellations situations (for example: sleep in, vehicle breakdowns, an unexpected illness or injury).
Rosco's Milford Kayaks reserves the right to cancel or change any part of any kayaking trip or the Day Safari road trip from Te Anau. This could be due to, but not limited to, adverse sea, river, road or weather conditions. If WE cancel the trip due to sue to such reasons we will give you a full refund*
*Please note: Our Day Safari does not refund if the kayaking portion of the trip has to cancel but we will substitute the kayaking portion of the trip with a Nature Cruise and an extended tour via the Holly ford Valley back to Te Anau.