Stewart Island Experience – Passenger Ferry
Experience Stewart Island New Zealand’s Southern Most Island
Stewart Island Ferry
Escape to the Untamed Beauty of Stewart Island with RealNZ Ferry Services
We are calling all adventurers, nature lovers, and seekers of serenity! RealNZ invites you to embark on an unforgettable journey to the magical realm of Stewart Island, New Zealand’s southernmost gem.
Stewart Island: Where wilderness whispers and adventure awaits
Stewart Island, affectionately nicknamed “Rakiura” by the Maori, is a paradise cloaked in ancient rainforest, fringed by pristine beaches, and teeming with unique wildlife. Here, time slows down, worries melt away, and the rhythm of nature reigns supreme.
RealNZ: Your gateway to paradise
RealNZ is your trusted partner in unlocking the wonders of Stewart Island. We offer a regular schedule of ferry trips from Bluff, the charming port town at the southern tip of the South Island, to Oban, the main settlement on Stewart Island.
Choose your perfect RealNZ ferry journey:
- The Classic: Scenic ferry crossing – Sail across the Foveaux Strait, soaking in the breathtaking panorama of rugged coastlines, snow-capped mountains, and playful dolphins. Keep your eyes peeled for fur seals basking on the rocks and albatrosses soaring overhead.
- The Explorer: Ulva Island add-on – Combine your ferry trip with a guided exploration of Ulva Island, a predator-free haven teeming with birdlife. Witness the playful antics of kakapo, the world’s fattest parrot, and spot the elusive kiwi in its natural habitat.
- The Adventurer: Multi-day packages – Craft your Stewart Island adventure with RealNZ’s flexible packages. Choose from various accommodation options, guided walks, wildlife encounters, and kayaking excursions to create an itinerary that ignites your soul.
RealNZ ferry trips cater to every traveller:
- Comfortable and spacious ferry – Relax on our modern ferry, equipped with comfy seating, complimentary Coffee/Tea, and spacious back deck for uninterrupted vistas.
- Flexible scheduling – Choose from daily departures and crossing times to suit your travel plans.
- Seamless connections – Connect seamlessly with coach transfers from Invercargill and Te Anau, making your journey hassle-free.
Ready to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary?
Book your RealNZ ferry trip to Stewart Island today and prepare to be captivated by the island’s wild beauty, rugged charm, and untamed spirit.
- 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
Departing: Bluff To Stewart Island
Price: Adults $110 pp Children $55 pp
Duration: One Hour
Departing: Stewart Island To Bluff
Price: Adults $110 pp Children $55 pp
Duration: One Hour
Stewart Island Experience: Activities
Once on Stewart Island, there are lots of activities and things to see.
Stewart Island – Ulva Island Explorer
Combine a Paterson Inlet coastal cruise with a guided walk on the renowned Ulva Island birdlife sanctuary.
Price: Adults $119 pp Child $59 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 $50 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 $229 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 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.
Return to Stewart Island