MILFORD SOUND

• NZMFN
• Latitude: -44.6654
• Longitude: 167.918
• South Pacific
• Port in New Zealand

Location: New Zealand

Web-site: URL_of_official_website

Milford Sound - Marine Port Description and Specification

General Overview: Milford Sound, located in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park on the southwest coast of the South Island, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. It is both a popular tourist destination and a site of significant ecological and geological interest. Despite its remote location, Milford Sound sees considerable marine traffic, primarily from cruise and tourist vessels.

Geographic Coordinates:

• Latitude: 44.6700° S
• Longitude: 167.9245° E

Port Type:

• Natural Fjord

Access and Navigation:

• Approach: Vessels typically approach Milford Sound from the Tasman Sea. The entrance is narrow and requires careful navigation due to underwater topography and potential for strong currents.
• Navigational Aids: There are several navigational aids, including buoys and lighthouses to ensure safe entry and navigation within this fiord.

Port Facilities:

• Berthing: There are limited berthing facilities primarily designed for smaller cruise ships and tourist boats. Large vessels often anchor off the Sound and use tenders to transport passengers.
• Depth: The fjord typically has deep waters, exceeding 100 meters in most areas, but caution is required close to the cliffs and at the entrance.
• Anchorage: Available at designated spots within the Sound, highly-dependent on weather conditions.
• Pilotage: Not mandatory but highly recommended due to the complex marine environment.

Services:

• Fuel and Water: Limited; mostly available for smaller vessels.
• Ship Repairs: Minimal facilities; major repairs would require going to larger port cities like Bluff or Dunedin.
• Waste Disposal: Regulations in place for waste management; however, options are limited. Ships are encouraged to carry waste to larger facilities outside the Sound.

Port Policy and Regulations:

• Environmental Protection: The area is part of a national park, and strict environmental regulations apply to preserve its natural state. Special care is required to prevent pollution.
• Speed Limits: Speed restrictions may apply to ensure safety and minimal environmental impact.
• Tourism Regulations: Operators must comply with both local and national tourism and environmental policies.

Local Infrastructure:

• Road Access: Milford Sound is connected by the Milford Road (State Highway 94), a scenic yet occasionally challenging drive due to weather conditions.
• Air Access: Milford Sound Airport (IATA: MFN) accommodates small aircraft and helicopter tours.
• Accommodation: Limited; primarily tourist lodges and a few overnight cruise options. Most visitors are day-trippers.

Climate:

• Rainfall: Extremely high, with an annual average exceeding 6,000 mm.
• Temperature: Mild, with summer temperatures averaging 18°C and winter temperatures averaging 5°C.
• Weather Conditions: Can change rapidly, with frequent downpours and occasional strong winds.

Key Points of Interest:

• Scenic Cruises: Numerous daily cruises highlight the fjord's majestic scenery, including waterfalls like Stirling and Bowen Falls.
• Kayaking: Popular for closer natural exploration.
• Underwater Observatory: Offers a unique view of the fiord’s marine life and underwater ecosystems.
• Hiking Trails: Include the renowned Milford Track.

Given its unique location and pristine environment, Milford Sound is more oriented towards eco-tourism and recreational activities rather than commercial shipping. However, its facilities are adequate to support the influx of tourist vessels that frequent this stunning region.

Contacts:

• Fiordland National Park Office: For regulatory information
• Milford Sound Harbourmaster: For navigational assistance and docking inquiries