Isn’t it too cold?

No. Winter paddling on Milford Sound is a surprisingly cosy activity. There are a few reasons for this. We supply specialist winter paddling attire. These include neoprene poggies (like gloves but better). Thick neoprene spray skirts guaranteed to keep you warm and dry, you will not even get your feet wet. We also supply polypro underwear tops and bottoms and thick fleece tops. Milford sits at sea level which is some 200-300m lower in altitude than say Queenstown or Te Anau so it is generally 3-4 degrees warmer. The weather is often more settled during the winter months and we try to paddle in the sun for 95% of our trip.

Does it matter if I have never paddled before?

No not at all. We have a lot of first time paddlers come out with us. Winter is the perfect time to paddle because the water is usually tranquil and still. Your guide will give you ongoing paddle tips while on the water. Remember paddling with us is both easy and fun.

How long is the trip?

Our total trip time for the “Winter Wildlife ‘n Waterfalls Sunriser Classic” is a little over five hours with our on the water time between 3.5-4 hours. It’s not all paddling, we stop for lunch part way into the trip and have plenty of photo stops along the way.

I haven’t fitted chains to a vehicle before but would like to drive myself into Milford. Is this possible?

Yes it is but check the road conditions the day before you are due to travel. Go to www.milfordroad.co.nz or ring 0800-444-449. Hire your chains and practice fitting them in Te Anau before you leave. Fill up your tank with petrol or diesel. If you are driving on the day of the kayak trip you will have to leave Te Anau no later than 7.30am. It will be dark and you may be ahead of the grit truck, a truck that disperses grit on icy corners, bridges or shady spots so take it slowly, especially on bridges and in the upper Hollyford Valley and below the Chasm. If the thought of driving on icy roads and over a mountain pass (the Milford road tops at 940m, Te Anau is a little over 200m) or fitting chains does not appeal or you just feel like the day off driving, book our Day Safari which departs your Te Anau accommodation daily.

What do I need to take?

A camera with a fresh set of batteries and plenty of film/memory (we supply a dry bag for it), lunch and snack food, sunscreen, lip balm SPF15, sunglasses, insect repellent, shorts, soft shoes, warm fleece or wool hat, a spare pair of warm socks, rain jacket, towel, a change of clothes and finally a bag to keep everything in.

Will I get wet?

During an average day out paddling you will not. Even your feet will stay dry! If we do have a Milford rain day or you do take an unexpected swim (this happens very rarely) your guide will ensure you stay warm.

What do you supply?

We provide all specialist paddling attire designed to keep you warm and dry. Polypro under garments and fleece, neoprene spray decks and poggies (like gloves but better!), paddle jackets, buoyancy aides and dry bags. Our changing “tent” is heated to a balmy 30 degrees C before and after our trips. Your bags and valuables will be stored in our lockers. We paddle safe, stable double kayaks with foot operated rudders.

I’m thinking of booking the Fly ‘n Sea Kayak from Queenstown. What are you minimum numbers for this trip?

All of our kayaking options do confirm for a minimum of two people. The Fly ‘n Sea Kayak option is only an option between May and September. This is a very popular trip for those who may be staying in Queenstown and to experience the grandeur of Milford Sound from a sea kayak in a day from Queenstown. There is the possibility of being able to ski or board at night during some of the winter months.

I’m keen to book your Day Safari and go paddling but my partner wants to go on a cruise. What are our options?

You can both travel in and out of Milford together. Our Day Safari also connects with the cruise boats daily.

What is the minimum age for kayaking?

14 years old.

Our cancellation policy?

Rosco’s Milford Kayaks reserves the right to cancel or change any part of the kayaking trip, the Safari road trip from Te Anau or the flight from Queenstown. This could be due to, but not limited to, adverse sea, river, road or weather conditions. Our flight portion may very occasionally be substituted by a coach back to Queenstown if the weather dictates this. Our Day Safari does not refund… same as before!