underwater observatory tours

Busselton Jetty Train Ride and Underwater Observatory Tour

• Busselton Jetty Day Pass
• Souvenir item
• Access and guided tour of Underwater Observatory
• Return Jetty Train ride
• Entry/Admission - Busselton Jetty
• Food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Transportation to/from attractions
• Wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Near public transportation
• Infants must sit on laps
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Surfaces are wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Most travellers can participate
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 5 travellers
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• paulchoo 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles great train ride. The train ride was a nice experience. I can't imagine walking up and down the 1.8km jetty under the hot sun. but the underwater experience was a little meh~. Read more Written 7 May 2024
• B0nny-Hills 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Love the Jetty This was a great morning out. We were so impressed by the staff & volunteers that we went into the info centre to tell them in person after our visit to the jetty & the underwater experience. We saw amazing fish & coral & learnt slot about the Jetty’s history and the marine life. We would happily recommend to go there if you are visiting in Busselton . Read more Written 29 April 2024
• faithestherc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Eye-opener for young and old! We absolutely love the experience. The kids loved the train ride a lot! The underwater observatory was quite an eye-opener. The adults all learnt something new that day. The view at the end of the jetty was spectacular too. Read more Written 29 April 2024
• gwegwy 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Well worth the walk for the mini tour. Day 4 of our 2-week trip to WA. We were headed for Whalers Cove Villas at Dunsborough for a couple of nights and decided to stop at Busselton to walk the jetty (a bit over two and a half hours' drive from BeFremantle). Quite a hot day and we'd considered walking out to the end and taking the train back but an oldie had come a cropper out near the end and the train wasn't operating until that was sorted. $4 each got us a day pass for the jetty and we started the trek. It soon became obvious that people don't know how to walk in crowds (it's easy - stay to the left and get your eyes off the phone) but the walk is good and , besides the clear water, the overall scenery is great and there are several very interesting plaques with historical info along the way. She was very keen to view the underwater observatory but they'd closed it temporarily until the ambulance people were finished with the patient. Foot traffic was still passing through so closure of the observatory seemed unnecessary. They eventually reopened it but with the proviso that we could only do a mini tour for $20 each instead of the full tour for $38 and there would be no commentary from the guide (but a guide would come with us to answer questions if we had any. We didn't). We had about 20 minutes before the guided tour started but that was plenty of time and we found the different levels of the observatory quite fascinating. The train was still stuck way back near the start of the jetty so we walked back. Halfway back, the train seemed to start but it goes so slowly that we weren't sure initially if it was moving or not. As it passed us, the people were packed together like sardines. They all looked rather miserable and we were glad we didn't do the ride. We'd been told at the ticket office when we got our day pass that there was no guarantee that we'd be able to get on the train for the trip back anyway. She was delighted to walk both ways because, with her recent get fit campaign and purchase of a Samsung smart watch, we clocked up more than 17,000 steps for the day ! It was still very hot when we got back to the beach so we wandered over to a very empty Equinox restaurant for a drink and ended up staying for a light, late lunch. We had our choice of tables and the bar is in a lovely cool spot looking over the park to the beach and the jetty. Our chilled prawn rolls were excellent and went well with a pint of Great Northern and a Pina Colada. Read more Written 22 April 2024
• abuckle-3 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Busselton Jetty Anazing history behind the Jetty. Caught the little red train one way and walked back the 1.8km! Visited the underwater observatory at the end of the pier, which was interesting with all the fish that live there. Well worth thevisit. Read more Written 18 April 2024
• 549ValerieR 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Busselton Underwater aquarium, amazing Great experience. Very knowledgeable guides, plenty of free time, a very worthwhile trip. A must do experience. The aquarium is absolutely amazing, Read more Written 17 April 2024
• BronteBucket 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great for a bracing walk into the sea... We stopped in Bussleton around 5pm to stretch our legs as we had been in the car for several hours on our way to Margaret River. We didn't realise that the jetty is free after 5pm - bonus! The pier is lovely to walk along. Quite strange to be able to walk so far out to sea (1.8km). At one point we were being followed by a shark in the water so had fun trying to keep tabs on his fin as we walked along. There were people fishing for squid from the pier and people promenading, so lots to look at en route. The aquarium was shut at this time and so we did not access this attraction. If you didn't want to walk the pier, you can take the train which leaves periodically but finishes just after 5pm. Read more Written 16 April 2024
• Explorer785673 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles observatory The train was fine, walking would havebeen okay too, but the observatory was beautiful. it's really just a series of viewing windows, but it was lovely to just have hthe time (about 40 min) to just look out the ports/windowws and watch the sea life go by in its natural environment. Seeing a cormorant dive/swim by was thrilling! Very nice guide too. Read more Written 13 April 2024
• karent05 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles A worthy trip It was indeed a long jetty extended into the Indian Ocean (about 1.8km). If you are not quite an outdoor person to walk the Jetty under the Sun, the train ride is a good alternative to reach the end of the Jetty, where the underwater observatory resides. A recommended stop if you are in the area. Read more Written 3 April 2024
• lj64 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Beautiful walk spectacular views Just under a 2 km walk out n back. Definitely worth a visit if you have the capacity and time. Cost is $4 pp. outstanding views and great history. Read more Written 21 March 2024
• Erin D 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Very disappointing and not exclusive of babies/young kids Observatory opened 7 minutes late and they still charged us full price for a guided tour which only lasted 10 minutes. We then paid for a train trip back (we had walked out) and they wouldn’t let us on the train stating we couldn’t take a pram. I have a 10 month old baby and pregnant as well. Our pram even folded up and they still said no. I spoke to the team leader Michelle at front desk when we got back who was very unhelpful and said she would get her manager to call me back.. it’s been 4 hours and still no word. I asked about how disabled people access and she said they make acceptions for wheelchairs. When I queried why note pram and explained my situation she said “we let pregnant people go on the train.” So what I was to leave my baby and the pram at the other end? The train on the way back also had 9 spare carriages (not like it was full and no room). They also wouldn’t give us a discount for opened late. Very disappointing and not exclusive of all our population as well as extremely unhelpful customer service. The girl who did the tour however was fantastic Read more Written 7 March 2024
• michellekL2039DX 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day out It was a brilliant day. Worth the drive down. The train is fun but walk if you have the time and energy. The underwater observatory is fantastic and the guided tour very informative. Snorkeling is a must the schools of fish and stingrays. We also saw a dolphin! Read more Written 5 March 2024
• 385stephent 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A 'must do' trip when your in the area. Whilst staying in Margaret River, we drove up to Busselton. Busselton turned out to be a great little town and arguably, one of the best attractions is the Busselton Jetty. We booked our journey onboard the small electric train that runs the entire length (1.841km). The journey takes around 25minutes and at the end you come across the Reef experience. This takes you down around 20mts and it is an opportunity to see many species of fish without the need of a wetsuit. Great little trip for all the family and easy to recommend. Read more Written 23 February 2024
• KathrynM898 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A wonderful trip down the jetty This jetty is amazing, a 15 minute walk or a train ride, at the end of which is an underwater observatory. The best part was talking to the guide after most people had moved on - she was a mine of information and so enthusiastic about what could be seen. Busselton is a pretty place - this is the highlight. Read more Written 19 February 2024
• MoreTravel278 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Do book ahead A great experience travelling out on the jetty by train and then enjoying the underwater tour. If you want to be guaranteed the time of your choice, do book ahead because it can be quite popular, particularly on warmer days. Read more Written 5 February 2024

More to explore in Busselton

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Busselton Jetty Train Ride and Underwater Observatory Tour provided by Busselton Jetty

Busselton Jetty Train Ride and Underwater Observatory Tour

Busselton, Western Australia

Begin your 1-hour and 45-minute tour with a Jetty Train journey 1.05-miles (1.7-kilometers) across the Indian Ocean to visit the Underwater Observatory, located at the end of the Jetty, where you will be greeted by your guide. Descend 8-metres to the ocean floor via a spiral staircase to view some of the 300 species of vividly colored tropical and sub-tropical corals, sponges, fish and invertebrates in their natural environment. A unique design, the Observatory was opened in December 2003 and is one of only six Underwater Observatories in the world.

Between the 29th of April and the 27th of September 2019, an amazing Virtual Reality (VR) Experience is added to the tour when the visibility from the Observatory windows can be affected by adverse weather conditions. *Virtual Reality Experience is only available during low visibility. When visibility is good to excellent, standard Underwater Observatory Tours will operate.

DESCRIPTION

Visit: Busselton Jetty, 3L Queen St Beach Front Busselton, Busselton, Western Australia 6280 Australia

Extending 1.05-miles (1.8-kilometres) over the protected waters of Geographe Bay, the heritage listed Busselton Jetty is the longest tourist jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and second longest in the world. Located only 2.5-hours drive south of Perth, at the gateway to the Margaret River Region, the Busselton Jetty attracts over 500,000 visitors per year. In 2018 the Jetty was awarded Gold in the Major Tourist Attraction category at the Western Australian Tourism Awards and Bronze at the Australian Tourism Awards! 

Tour Schedule: • Arrive at the Busselton Jetty 30 minutes prior to train departure. • Board the Jetty Train and travel 15-minutes across the ocean to the Underwater Observatory. • The Underwater Observatory is located 1.7-kilometers along the Busselton Jetty. Explore with a guide and descend 8-meters to the ocean floor via a spiral staircase of 60 stairs. • Your ticket includes complimentary return train ride, a 40-minute guided tour of the Underwater Observatory, Jetty Day Pass and exclusive Busselton Jetty deck of playing cards. • Tours depart on the hour and takes approximately 1-hour and 45-minutes to complete. • The Underwater Observatory can accommodate 44 people per tour. • Access to the Underwater Observatory is only possible via a tour. • A lift is available for those with limited mobility. • The tour concludes back on shore at the Interpretive Centre.

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Milford Sound Observatory

A unique view of milford sound.

Milford Sound is a beautiful fjord located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls. One of the unique attractions in Milford Sound is the Milford Sound Observatory, which offers a fascinating view of the underwater environment of the fjord without getting your feet wet! 

What is the Milford Sound Observatory?

The Milford Sound Observatory is a floating underwater observatory located in Harrison Cove, Milford Sound. It is the only floating underwater observatory in New Zealand and offers a unique view of the fascinating underwater environment of the fjord. 

Visitors can walk down the steps into the large underwater viewing room and find themselves 10 meters below sea level, in air-conditioned comfort. They can see the colorful sea life up close and discover the species of black coral usually found at depths of 500 meters in the open ocean. Visitors can gaze at the fish and other wildlife – it’s just like visiting an aquarium, except the exhibits are roaming free and you’re the one in the enclosure!

What else can you do at the Milford Sound Observatory?

In addition to the underwater observatory, the Milford Sound Discovery Centre has everything you need to learn about the history of Milford Sound and the building of the Homer Tunnel. Visitors can learn about the first Māori settlers and early European arrivals. You can also watch video footage of amazing avalanches, and learn about the way this region was shaped. 

The Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is located in Harrison Cove and is only accessible by boat. Spaces are limited and must be pre purchased as part of a cruise packages.

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Underwater Observatory

• Underwater Observatory & Coconut Experience
• Island Costume & Coconut Experience
• Piti Bay Marine Preserve Eco Snorkeling Tour
• Dolphin Watching Cruise with Observatory
• Island Cultural Dinner Show
• Sunset Cruise and Observatory with Island BBQ Dinner
• Dinner Menu
• Visitor Center
• Piti Bay Marine Preserve
• Location Map
• Activities Photos
• Activities Videos
• Message to Our Guest
• Experience the Tropical Pacific in Guam
• DIRECT BOOKINGS ADVANTAGES
• Trip Advisor

Welcome to the natural pristine beauty of the undersea world!

The view from the underwater observatory is highly recommended, not to mention the view from the upper deck of Piti Bay's gorgeous and varied colors. This is the unique observatory where both the undersea and surface of the ocean may be seen and enjoyed.

Right after the "Welcome to Piti Village" sign on Marine Drive lies the entrance to the underwater observatory. Before stepping out onto the bridge walkway to enjoy the stunning ocean, admission tickets may be purchased at the front ticket office.

The gentle sea breeze caresses you as you walk and enjoy the unique colors of the sea and coral reef from the bridge walkway. The color of the ocean which varies from emerald green at the shallow points to a stunning coral blue at the deeper parts is beyond description. The sunset on Guam is amazingly picturesque due to the pristine air surrounding the island.

The fish and coral in the sea can be viewed from the exterior upper deck of the underwater observatory due to the superb visibility of the water. It is fun to watch the migratory fish feeding and swimming in the water! A monitor TV is a set-up to view the underwater via live video feed.

Descend 72 steps down the spiral staircase to the lower deck located at a depth of 10 meters underwater. A fantastic 360˚ view from the underwater observatory can be enjoyed from 16 large observation windows in addition to 8 round windows located at a height perfect for smaller children.

The natural coral surrounding the underwater observatory makes it a very popular diving spot that many divers visit every day. The number of fishefishing the divers to play is quite astonishing.

Barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda) and schools of needlefish (Hyporhamphus sp.) may be seen from the south side of the underwater observatory, close to the sea bridge. Bluefin trevally (Caranx melamphygus) and unicorn fish (Naso unicornis) are often swimming in the mid-depths of the water. Sting rays (Aetobatus narinari) and blacktip sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus) usually appear in the evening hours when the sea is free from divers and other human spectators.

The main attraction of the west side is the colorful fishes that swim between the corals that have grown to border the underwater observatory and the fish cleaning station. (*) *Cleaning Station* A coral or rock stationed by a cleaner wrasse (L. dimidiatus) that eats the parasites and other bodies wasted off the other visiting fishes is referred to as a fish cleaning station. It is amusing to watch the fishes waiting their turn to have their bodies cleaned.

The main attraction of the northwest side is the fishes that gather around the feeding station and the school of goatfish (Mulloidichthys vanicolensis) and snapper (Lutjanus fulvus) that leisurely swim in the shade provided by the underwater observatory.

Anemone fish (Amphiprion melanous) living symbiotically with sea anemones are seen on the artificial coral shelf located on the northeast side of the observatory. Occasionally the males can be seen dutifully protecting the newly laid eggs.

From the east side window, you can view the pink anemonefish (Amphiprion perideraion) and damselfish (Chromis Viridis) swimming around the artificial coral shelves mounted by the underwater observatory window.

From the southeast side of the underwater observatory, you can see the sandstone spreading underneath the artificial coral shelf where turtles and stingrays (Aetobatus narinari) often appear in the late afternoon when the number of divers decreases.

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Milford Sound Cruises

Discover more cruise.

No other Milford Sound experience takes you further. Explore the natural world of the fiord and get closer to one of the most dramatic places on earth. The only experience in Milford Sound that includes a visit to the underwater observatory.

• Up to 3 hr cruise duration
• A longer, in-depth Milford Sound experience
• Get closer for the chance to see seals, dolphins or even a rare Fiordland Crested Penguin
• Our friendly team will answer your questions and provide entertaining commentary
• Outdoor decks and comfortable indoor lounge decks, perfect for Milford Sound in any weather
• Getting you so close to waterfalls you’ll need a raincoat
• The only cruise in Milford that includes a visit to New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory
• Descend 10 metres (64 steps) below the surface to check out rare black coral in its natural habitat and meet colourful sea creatures
• Includes FREE tea and coffee and licensed bar onboard
• Gift vouchers are available for our Milford Sound Discover More Cruise. Buy now  if you don't know your travel date and you don't want to miss out!
• Download the Southern Discoveries app for multilingual commentary for our cruise experiences.
• Southern Discoveries Ltd wishes to notify our customers about the natural risks and hazards prevalent in Milford Sound, the remote location where our operations are situated. Detailed information of these risks and hazards can be found here.

Welcome aboard, and get ready to dine in style! Your Milford Sound Coach, Cruise & Underwater Observatory lunch options are listed to your right.

• Freshly prepared picnic lunch is available to purchase on all Milford Sound cruises
• Please note we do not include a drink with your picnic lunch as we are trying to reduce our use of single use plastic so please take your water bottle with you
• A selection of snacks are available to purchase onboard all vessels
• A fully licensed bar is available on all vessels, except the Lady Stirling
• Free tea and coffee is available on all cruises
• All meat is certified halal
• The menu may vary at times due to seasonal supply
• Please note that the ingredients and contents of each meal are only a guide and these may be subject to change
• Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are available – please indicate your preferences when you are booking online
• If you have specific dietary requirements or special group requests, please call to discuss with the reservations team
• Passengers are not permitted to bring their own alcohol onboard our vessels
• We only accept credit card or cash payments, we can not accept eftpos or debit cards

A Picnic lunch is available for purchase on all departures. It is freshly prepared daily and includes:

• Sandwich with selected meat and salad for the regular option
• Cheese and crackers
• Seasonal fresh fruit
• Small chocolate bar

There are four available options; regular, vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free. When you book online, please select your preference.

• from   Queenstown
• from   Te Anau
• from   Milford Sound

Enjoy the spectacular Milford road at your own pace as you make your way to Milford Sound to join the Discover More Cruise. Car parking is available within walking distance of the cruise terminal.

Premium glass-roof coach departs Te Anau for the most in-depth day trip experience. Expert coach drivers provide time for photo stops and short walks along the Milford road journey.

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• Milford Sound Attractions
• Milford Sound

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

• Fiordland National Park
• Milford Sound Waterfalls
• Milford Sound Tours
• Milford Sound Accommodation
• Adventure Activities
• Plan Your Visit
• Te Anau to Milford Sound
• Queenstown to Milford Sound
• Milford Track

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Milford Sound Cruise with Underwater Observatory Access

• Plunge into a natural adventure with New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory and a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise with lively commentary.
• Descend 10m to observe underwater life at the observatory. Gaze at black coral, fish, and other wildlife while enclosed in an AC viewing room.
• Witness the sheer grandeur of the fiord's landscapes, from the thundering waterfalls to the tranquility of the rainforests and towering peaks.
• Enjoy the thrill of spotting wildlife, from seals basking in the sun to dolphins frolicking in the water, or even rare Fiordland Crested Penguins.
• Have a close encounter with nature and the best viewing experience aboard a small boat as you drink glacial water and touch natural artifacts.
• 2 to 3 hour Milford Sound cruise
• Live commentary
• Entry to Underwater Observatory
• Tea & coffee
• Tip: Look out for Mitre Peak, one of the most photographed features in Milford Sound due to its distinctive shape.
• This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
• Ramp is available on the boat for easy access.
• Milford Sound is a natural environment so wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
• The operator reserves the right to amend timetables, cancel cruise departures, and substitute vessels at any time for safety or operational reasons including due to unsafe weather conditions or vessel maintenance.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

2-Hour Milford Sound Cruise

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Explore Milford Sound on this sightseeing cruise, which takes you near its majestic cliffs and glacier-carved waterfalls unlike any other.
• Join the skipper in the open wheelhouse and enjoy coffee and tea onboard. Look out for sunbathing seals, dolphins, or rare seasonal Fiordland Crested Penguins.
• Sail by Stirling Falls, cascading from a staggering 508 feet, feeling the cool glacial mist. Savor a hot cup of tea or coffee onboard.
• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
• Stops at points of interest
• Informative commentary from the skipper
• Complimentary tea & coffee on-board
• Tip: Gas stations are absent on the Milford highway, so be sure to top off your tank in Te Anau.
• Book online to save time and avoid offline hassles such as waiting on the dock for the next ship to arrive. Wear waterproof clothing or non-slip socks as there is a good possibility of getting wet as you go near waterfalls.
• Wheelchairs and prams can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.

Milford Cruise, Underwater Observatory Tickets, Kayaking & Lunch

• Create unforgettable memories on a guided Milford Sound cruise and kayaking adventure in Harrison Cove to see its diverse marine life.
• Descend into the only floating observatory in New Zealand and witness rare black coral and colorful fish, all thanks to a unique natural phenomenon.
• Get guided kayaking instruction, perfect for beginners. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters and soak in the breathtaking views.
• Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch prepared onboard as you cruise the majestic fiord with complimentary tea or coffee.
• 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound
• Nature guide
• 1 to 1.5 hour kayaking experience
• Specialist kayak guide
• Kayaking equipment
• Entry to Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
• Picnic lunch
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Tip: Treat yourself to an overnight stay at a chalet in Milford Sound and enjoy its serene atmosphere after the crowds have left.
• Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak for the kayaking experience.
• Timetables, departures, and vessels are subject to change due to safety precautions, weather conditions, or maintenance requirements.

Visit Milford Sound Observatory | New Zealand’s Only Floating Underwater Observatory

Milford Sound is home to many natural wonders including glacial fiords dating back to the Ice Age, lush rainforests formed from being the wettest place in New Zealand, and one of the wettest in the world, and even rare endangered species like Fiordland-crested penguins. But what truly takes the crown is its unique marine ecosystem. Here you can step 10 feet underwater without getting a drop on yourself at Milford Sound’s Underwater Observatory.

Read on to learn all about the underwater observatory at Milford Sound, what to expect, and other important information to make your visit seamless.

What is the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory?

This observatory at Milford Sound is New Zealand’s only floating underwater observatory. Accessible only by boat, you can witness Milford Sound’s deep-water emergence where freshwater meets saltwater from the sea. Owing to this phenomenon you’ll get to see species like the black coral, amongst many others, come to shallower waters instead of their natural home leagues under the sea. This is also your ticket to surround yourself with Milford Sound’s inky black water.

Milford Sound Underwater Observatory in a nutshell

• Official name : Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
• Location: Harrison Cove, Milford Sound / Piopiotahi, Southland, New Zealand
• Date of opening: July 1990
• Timings: Open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM 
• Depth: 10 meters below the water surface.
• Unmissable sights: Black coral, sea anemones, sponges, colorful fish species like butterflyfish and trumpeter, playful Fiordland dolphins (if you're lucky!), and glimpses of penguins.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park are part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site, inscribed in 1990.
• Number of visitors per year: Approximately 75,000 visitors annually.
• Function: Underwater observatory

Why visit Milford Sound Underwater Observatory?

Witness a kaleidoscope of hidden marine life

Observe colorful fish species like butterflyfish and trumpeters flitting among the kelp forests. Set sights on the rare black coral forests. With a bit of luck, you might even spot playful Fiordland dolphins or cheeky penguins!

Experience Milford Sound from a new perspective

Go beyond the breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls to discover the thriving underwater world, 64 steps below. Unlike zoos and aquariums, it’s you who’ll be enclosed while nature flows freely.

Become a citizen scientist

Your visit helps fund programs that protect the delicate underwater environment of Milford Sound. Learn about the challenges faced by this unique ecosystem and the vital role played by the observatory.

Enjoy an accessible underwater adventure

Unlike scuba diving, the observatory offers a comfortable and dry environment for exploring the underwater world. No diving experience or special equipment is needed, making it perfect for all ages and abilities.

Plan your visit to Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

Timings: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM; daily

Best time to visit: Summer months (December-February) offer warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours. However, rainfall can be higher. Winter months (June-August) have cooler temperatures and shorter days but offer calmer seas and potentially clearer underwater viewing.

To avoid peak crowds, visit during weekdays or shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).

Address: Harrison Cove, Milford Sound 9600, New Zealand

Find on Maps

The Milford Sound Underwater Observatory is located in Harrison Cove, a picturesque inlet within Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Southland, New Zealand. It's accessible only by boat tours offered by Southern Discoveries.

Highlights of Milford Sound Underwater Observatory— your underwater safari

Ready to trade mountain peaks for coral castles? Dive beneath the waves at the Milford Sound Observatory and witness a hidden realm teeming with fascinating creatures and otherworldly landscapes. Here's a sneak peek at the underwater treasures you can expect:

Black Coral forests

Imagine an underwater gothic wonderland. Towering black coral, centuries old, weaves intricate forests that shelter a kaleidoscope of marine life. Keep your eyes peeled for shy shrimp, playful fish darting between branches, and maybe even a curious penguin peeking in.

History of Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

Milford Sound, 1989, marked the emergence of a dream. John Roberts, a local visionary, envisioned an underwater observatory beneath the turquoise surface. Undeterred by skepticism and budget constraints, John's passion for the fiord's hidden wonders propelled him forward. Five years later, in 1994, his dream materialized as the world's first floating underwater observatory opened its hatches, unveiling the mesmerizing kaleidoscope of life below. Milford Sound's once-secret world was revealed, and John earned his place as a local legend, forever known as "Aquajohn."

Delve deeper into the observatory's offerings, discovering a piece of the legendary 1968 shipwreck "Wahine" amidst the exhibits. Fast forward to 2017, when the Milford Sound Discovery Centre merged with the observatory, creating a hub for both above- and underwater wonders. As you explore, anticipate future chapters with research labs, underwater art installations, and live-streamed glimpses of the fiord's hidden wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

It's New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory, offering a window into the fascinating marine life hidden beneath Milford Sound's turquoise waters. Accessible by boat, it allows you to observe creatures and ecosystems that thrive beyond the surface, even without diving.

Expect a kaleidoscope of marine life like black coral forests, colorful fish, playful dolphins (with luck!), and glimpses of penguins. You'll also witness underwater waterfalls and discover hidden stories of shipwrecks and Maori fish traps.

The observatory descends 10 meters below the water surface, offering a comfortable and dry vantage point without any diving experience needed.

Summer offers warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours but expect more rain. Winter boasts calmer seas and potentially clearer views but with cooler temperatures and shorter days. Consider weekdays or shoulder seasons to avoid peak crowds.

The observatory is accessible only by boat tours.

Absolutely not! The observatory provides a safe and accessible environment for all ages and abilities.

Black coral forests, bioluminescent light shows (especially in summer evenings), and dancing kelp forests with shy nudibranchs and flitting fish are some top contenders.

Yes! Discover the story of visionary John Roberts, nicknamed "Aquajohn," who brought this underwater dream to life in 1994. You'll even find a piece of the legendary 1968 shipwreck "Wahine" on display.

Your visit helps fund essential programs protecting Milford Sound's delicate underwater environment. You'll learn about the challenges faced by this unique ecosystem and the observatory's vital role in its conservation.

This watery wonder opened its hatches in 1994, making it over 29 years old! It was the brainchild of local visionary John Roberts, who dreamt of sharing the fiord's underwater secrets with the world.

Absolutely! The observatory is fully wheelchair accessible and offers comfortable viewing platforms for everyone to enjoy the underwater magic.

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Photo Credit: Southern Discoveries

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The Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is a unique attraction located in Milford Sound, New Zealand. It offers visitors an opportunity to see the fascinating underwater world of the fjord up close.

The observatory is located 10 meters below the surface of the water, and visitors can descend via a spiral staircase. Once inside, they will be surrounded by glass windows, offering a clear view of the underwater environment. The observatory is located in Harrison Cove, a sheltered area of Milford Sound, and is home to a variety of marine life.

The Milford Sound Underwater Observatory is owned and operated by Real Journeys, a New Zealand tourism company that offers a range of experiences and activities across the country. Real Journeys was founded in 1954 and has since grown to become one of New Zealand’s leading tourism operators, offering a wide range of experiences from cruises and scenic flights to hiking and cycling tours.

Visitors to the Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory can see a range of marine species, including rare black coral trees, which are found only in New Zealand. Black corals are slow-growing and can live for hundreds of years, making them a fascinating sight to see. Visitors may also see a variety of fish, such as blue cod, red moki, and sea perch, as well as crustaceans and other marine life.

The observatory is not just a viewing experience. Visitors can also learn about the marine life in Milford Sound through interactive displays and exhibits. There is a touch tank where visitors can get up close to some of the marine species, and a microscope station where visitors can see microscopic organisms that are found in the fjord.

The Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is an excellent educational experience for visitors of all ages. It offers a unique opportunity to see the underwater world of Milford Sound up close and learn about the importance of marine conservation.

Visitors can access the observatory by boat, and several tour companies offer boat tours that include a visit to the observatory. The Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in marine life and wants to experience the unique environment of Milford Sound.

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