Stewart Island Experience – Passenger Ferry
Experience Stewart Island New Zealand’s Southern Most Island
Visit Stewart Island and experience a slower pace, fascinating history, golden beaches and keep a lookout for birdlife, such as kaka (large parrot), weka (woodhen), kereru (NZ pigeon) and even kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka).
The journey is only one hour (one way) by catamaran ferry and you can often see Stewart Island’s highest point. Mt Anglem, Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island and the Titi Islands enroute.
Mollymawks (albatross) and other sea birds can often be seen from the ferry which operates across the Foveaux Strait between Bluff on the mainland and Oban, Stewart Island.
Most of the island is now designated as the Rakiura National Park. Nature lovers will want to visit Stewart Island with its densely forested hills, stunning bays, sandy beaches and rocky outcrops. Ulva Island bird sanctuary is renowned and a must do for any visitor.
Stewart Island Experience operates regular daily passenger ferry services all year between Bluff and Stewart Island utilising two express catamarans.
Departures: all year, daily- Complimentary tea and coffee on board
- One-hour journey
- Luggage limit: two carry-on bags per person
- Parking is available at Bluff Visitor Terminal
- ‘Coach & ferry’ options available – departing from Invercargill (all year), Queenstown (Nov – Apr) & Te Anau (Nov – Apr).
Departing Bluff/Oban:
Stewart Island Experience: Activities
Once on Stewart Island, there are lots of activities and things to see.
Ulva Island Explorer
Combine a Paterson Inlet coastal cruise with a guided walk on the renowned Ulva Island wildlife sanctuary.
Duration: 2 hours 30 mins
Departures: Oct – Apr
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.
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Departures: All year
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 the southern brown kiwi (Rakiura Tokoeka) search for food.
Duration: 4 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.
Rental Services
A great way to see Stewart Island, just hire a motor scooter, mountain bike or motorcar. Hire by the hour for mountain bikes and scooters. Minimum hire 4 hours for cars.
Operates: All year
Stewart Island Lodge: Accommodation
Stewart Island Lodge Bed & Breakfast is situated on a hillside location just a 5 minute walk from the village, set amidst native bush with stunning panoramic views over Half Moon Bay and beyond. Stewart Island Lodge provides a peaceful relaxed atmosphere for its guests.
Free Phone (within NZ only): 0800 000 511
Phone: +64 3 249 6000
Email: info@sie.co.nz
Discovery Expeditions – Stewart Island
Join a multi-day Discovery Expedition and explore Stewart Island’s coastline on board the Milford Wanderer. Guided walks with nature guide, visit historic sites, encounter wildlife of the Rakiura National Park. Accommodation, activities and meals all included.
Departures: July 2019 only
Duration: 6 days (5 nights)
Contact Stewart Island Experience:
Phone NZ: 03 212 7660 Freephone: 0800 000 511 Email: info@sie.co.nz
