Bluff to Stewart Island Ferry – Passenger Ferry to Oban
Bluff to Stewart Island Ferry – Passenger Ferry to Oban
Stewart Island Experience operates the passenger ferry between Bluff and Oban, providing the main gateway for travellers visiting Stewart Island (Rakiura). The ferry crosses Foveaux Strait in around one hour, connecting the South Island with Stewart Island’s relaxed seaside township of Oban.
Departing from Bluff Ferry Terminal, the comfortable catamaran service offers regular sailings throughout the day, making it easy for visitors to plan day trips or longer stays on Stewart Island. During the crossing you may spot seabirds, dolphins and even the occasional whale while enjoying views across the strait.
Whether you’re travelling for a day trip to Stewart Island or beginning a longer island adventure, the Bluff–Oban ferry provides a convenient and scenic journey to one of New Zealand’s most remote destinations.
Comfortable Ferry Journeys Across Foveaux Strait with RealNZ
Stewart Island Experience operates the passenger ferry between Bluff and Oban, providing the main gateway for travellers visiting Stewart Island (Rakiura). The comfortable catamaran service crosses Foveaux Strait in around one hour, connecting the South Island with Stewart Island’s relaxed seaside township of Oban.
With daily sailings throughout the year, the Bluff–Oban ferry makes it easy to plan a day trip to Stewart Island or a longer island adventure. During the crossing passengers often spot seabirds, dolphins and spectacular coastal scenery across the strait.
Departing: Bluff To Stewart Island ferry service
Price: Adults $135 pp Children $69 pp
Duration: One Hour
From Bluff to Stewart Island:
- 9:45 AM – Operates all year round.
- 1:45 PM – Available from December 1, 2023, to April 2, 2024.
- 5:15 PM – Available from October 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024.
- 4:30 PM – Available from May 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024.
Departing: Stewart Island To Bluff passenger ferry
Price: Adults $135 pp Children $69 pp
Duration: One Hour
From Stewart Island to Bluff:
- 8:00 AM – Operates all year round.
- 12:15 PM – Available from December 1, 2023, to April 2, 2024.
- 3:30 PM – Available from October 1, 2023, to April 30, 2024.
- 3:00 PM – Available from May 1, 2024, to September 30, 2024.
Please note that these schedules are subject to change. It’s recommended to check the latest timetable and book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Bluff Ferry Terminal Parking
Parking is available near the Bluff Ferry Terminal, making it convenient for travellers driving to catch the ferry to Stewart Island. Long-stay parking areas are located close to the terminal, allowing visitors to leave their vehicles safely while exploring Stewart Island for the day or during a longer island stay.
Parking costs NZ$5.00 per 24 hours (or part thereof) and operates on a simple airport-style system. Drivers collect a parking ticket on entry and pay when exiting the car park.
Parking cannot be reserved in advance and spaces are allocated on arrival, so it is recommended to arrive a little early before your ferry departure, especially during busy travel periods and the summer season.
This affordable parking option makes it easy for visitors to leave their vehicle at Bluff while travelling across Foveaux Strait to Oban on Stewart Island.
RealNZ Ferry Experience Across Foveaux Strait
Stewart Island Experience by RealNZ operates regular passenger ferry services between Bluff and Oban, providing the main gateway to Stewart Island (Rakiura). The comfortable catamaran crossing takes around one hour across Foveaux Strait, offering scenic views of the southern coastline and opportunities to spot seabirds, dolphins and other marine life.
Passengers can relax in spacious indoor seating areas or step out onto the viewing deck to enjoy the fresh sea air and spectacular scenery during the journey.
RealNZ ferry services operate daily throughout the year, making it easy to plan a day trip to Stewart Island from Bluff or begin a longer island adventure.
Stewart Island Ferry Features:
- Comfortable passenger ferry with indoor seating
- Spacious outdoor viewing deck
- Complimentary tea and coffee on board
- One-hour crossing between Bluff and Oban
- Luggage allowance of two carry-on bags per person
- Coach and ferry connections available from Invercargill and Te Anau
Stewart Island Travel Options:
Many visitors combine the ferry journey with other Stewart Island experiences. Options include Ulva Island visits, guided wildlife tours, scenic walks and multi-day island stays.
The Bluff–Oban ferry provides the easiest and most reliable way to reach Stewart Island and begin exploring Rakiura National Park, coastal bays and native wildlife habitats.
Book Your Stewart Island Ferry
Secure your seat on the Bluff to Stewart Island passenger ferry and enjoy a comfortable journey across Foveaux Strait to the island township of Oban.
Day Trip to Stewart Island from Bluff
A day trip to Stewart Island from Bluff is one of the easiest ways to experience this remote and beautiful part of New Zealand. With regular ferry departures throughout the day, visitors can travel across Foveaux Strait to Oban in around one hour and enjoy several hours exploring the island before returning to the mainland.
Once on Stewart Island, travellers can stroll around the seaside village of Oban, visit local cafés and galleries, or take short walks to scenic viewpoints such as Observation Rock and Lee Bay. Wildlife lovers may also choose to visit nearby Ulva Island, a predator-free bird sanctuary known for its native birdlife.
Many visitors combine the ferry journey with walking tracks, wildlife encounters or guided tours to experience the best of Rakiura National Park in a single day.
With convenient ferry connections and parking available at the Bluff Ferry Terminal, a day trip from Bluff to Stewart Island is a memorable way to explore one of New Zealand’s most untouched natural destinations.
Things to do on Stewart Island - Activities & Tours
Discover Stewart Island Popular Stewart Island Tours from Oban
Welcome to Stewart Island, New Zealand’s third-largest island and a haven for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Just a ferry ride across the Foveaux Strait with RealNZ, you’ll find a rugged landscape of pristine beaches, lush native forests, and abundant birdlife, making it the perfect destination to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re exploring the untouched beauty of Ulva Island, uncovering local stories on a Village & Bays Tour, or experiencing the thrill of spotting a wild kiwi in its natural habitat, Stewart Island offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. For those looking to extend their stay, Stewart Island Lodge provides cozy, scenic accommodation nestled amidst native bush with breathtaking views over Halfmoon Bay.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the unique charm of Stewart Island—where every adventure begins with RealNZ.
Stewart Island – Ulva Island Explorer
Combine a Paterson Inlet coastal cruise with a guided walk on the renowned Ulva Island birdlife sanctuary.
Price: Adults $145 pp Child $75 pp
Duration: 2 hours 30 mins
Departures: All year
Stewart Island – Village & Bays Tours
A great introductory tour to Stewart Island.
Our guides will share their local knowledge of New Zealand’s southernmost community, explore Oban and visit the beautiful surrounding bays
Price: Adults $59 pp Child $29 pp
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Departures: All year
Stewart Island – Wild Kiwi Encounter
Take an opportunity to see a wild kiwi in its own habitat.
Cruise at dusk to Little Glory Cove and your guide for the night will lead a guided walk through the spectacular coastal forest to a secluded sandy beach.
Here in the darkness you may find the Stewart Island kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka) search for food.
Price: Adults $259 pp
Duration: 4.5 hours (approx.)
Departures: At dusk (departure time varies by month – from 5.30pm – 8.30pm)
Return time: Approx. 4 hours after departure, but due to the late return time of this tour, you will need to book accommodation on Stewart Island.
Stewart Island Weather Forecast
Stewart Island Ferry Service: Frequently Asked Questions:
The ferry journey from Bluff to Oban on Stewart Island takes approximately one hour, offering a scenic crossing of the Foveaux Strait.
The Stewart Island ferry operates year-round with daily departures. Seasonal schedules may apply, so it’s best to check the current timetable when planning your trip.
You can book your ferry tickets online through the website. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Yes, parking is available at the Bluff ferry terminal. There are both short-term and long-term options for those who need extended parking during their visit to Stewart Island. (Cost approx $5 per day)
The ferry offers comfortable seating, complimentary tea and coffee, and large windows for scenic viewing. You may also spot local wildlife, like seabirds, during the crossing.
Yes, safety is a priority, and the ferry is operated by experienced crew members. Weather conditions are monitored closely, and crossings only proceed when conditions are safe.
Yes, passengers can bring luggage. Each passenger has a luggage limit of two bags per person, and one small carry-on. Extra goods can be brought by prior arrangement.
Pets are generally not allowed on the passenger ferry due to biosecurity regulations and safety concerns. However, service animals are permitted with prior arrangement.
The Foveaux Strait can be choppy, so if you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness medication before boarding. The ferry crew is also experienced in assisting passengers if needed.
In the event of a weather-related cancellation, we will notify passengers and provide options for rebooking or a refund. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast and stay updated on the day of travel.