Hi Kimfitzstar,
Thank you for your questions.
The Scenic cruises the fiord for 1hr 45mins (on our 08.00am departure) and 1hr 30mins (on our 10.00am departure) and the Nature cruises for 2hrs (on our 12.00noon departure) and 1hr 45mins (on our 02.00pm departure), although both cruises take the same route thought the Fiord and stop at the same locations.
The main difference between the two boats is the size of the vessel. The Scenic Cruise has a capacity of 300 guests, whereas the Nature Cruise has a capacity of 150 guests.
The other difference to note is the Nature orientated emphasis of the Nature Cruise. Onboard there are two wilderness guides, who give a full commentary about the fiord’s wildlife, history, fauna and flora. In contrast, the commentary aboard the Scenic Cruise is done by the skipper, with guides aboard the vessel to answer questions.
If you go to the Half-Day Milford Sound Nature Cruise and Flight from Queenstown excursion page, there are two times to select from for our summer departures, 1200 noon and 0200 pm.
The excursion including the coach is called Milford Sound Day Trip from Queenstown by Coach, Cruise and Flight. I am sorry that you are having trouble finding them but if you search those exact titles, they should come up
Regarding food, the 0800 am includes a complimentary buffet breakfast, the 1200 noon includes a buffet lunch and the 0200 pm includes a complimentary beverage. The 1000 am does not include any food or beverages.
I hope this information helps, we look forward to flying with you and your son in a couple of weeks!
Kind regards,
Jen
Air Milford