Stewart Island: Ferry Service Between Bluff & Stewart Island

Top rated
4.7102275 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7102275 out of 5 stars
176 reviews
Stewart Island: Ferry Service Between Bluff & Stewart Island
Top rated
4.7102275 out of 5 stars
4.7
4.7102275 out of 5 stars
176 reviews

Zip across Foveaux Strait between Bluff and Stewart Island, considered as one of New Zealand's ultimate eco tourism destinations, on board a comfortable catamaran. Friendly staff will provide informative commentary and point out scenic highlights.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 1 hour
Check availability to see starting times
Driver
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

R
Rosemary – New Zealand

I took the ferry from Bluff to Oban. calm sea, so all good. yet to experience the return journey!

M
Michelle – Australia

The experience was one that will never be forgotten. A once in a lifetime opportunity to do. Waves breaking above the boat, whilst watching the sea birds chase the waves.

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Take a comfortable and scenic one-hour ferry any time of the year
  • Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee on board
  • Look out for wildlife, particularly sea birds, such as Mollymawks and Titis, which often follow the vessel
  • Listen to comprehensive commentaries that provide information on interesting landmarks commonly seen
  • See Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island, the Titi Islands and Mount Anglem - Stewart Island’s highest point

Full description

Cross the Foveaux Strait, a seaway that separates Stewart Island from the South Island, on board an express catamaran. The one-hour ferry ride provides all-year daily scheduled service. During the crossing on the Stewart Island Ferry between the towns of Bluff (on the mainland) and Oban (on Stewart Island), keep a lookout for local wildlife like seabirds. Watch mollymawks (a type of albatross) soar above the ferry. 

Listen to comprehensive commentaries that provide information on the interesting landmarks commonly seen, including Dog Island Lighthouse, Ruapuke Island, the Titi Islands (also known as the Muttonbird Islands) and Mount Anglem - Stewart Island’s highest point.

Includes

  • Complimentary tea and coffee on board
  • Two carry-on bags per person
  • Wheelchair access
  • Commentary
  • Fees for additional baggage (by prior arrangement)
  • Parking fees (parking available at Bluff Visitor Terminal)

Meeting point

Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked.

Important information

Know before you go

  • You can bring a maximum of two bags per person (one stowed and one small carry-on) for free on the ferry
  • If you have additional baggage, please make arrangements with the company in advance. This service is not available on all ferry departures, due to the size of the vessel and the limited cargo space available
  • Vehicle parking at Bluff Visitor Terminal is available for an extra charge
  • Parking is available for cars, boat trailers, coaches, camper vans, motorcycles and bicycles
  • This is an airport-style parking facility, so you collect a ticket on entry and pay when you leave

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.7 /5

based on 176 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.7/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Value for money
    4/5
Filter
By star rating
Sort by:
R
Rosemary – New ZealandApril 15, 2025 – Verified booking
I took the ferry from Bluff to Oban. calm sea, so all good. yet to experience the return journey!
M
Michelle – AustraliaApril 14, 2025 – Verified booking
The experience was one that will never be forgotten. A once in a lifetime opportunity to do. Waves breaking above the boat, whilst watching the sea birds chase the waves.
M
Michelle – AustraliaApril 13, 2025 – Verified booking
Absolutely once I a lifetime experience, with waves breaking above the boat. The Skipper was so professional and knowledgeable, he made me feel so safe.

Product ID: 177462

Activity provider:RealNZ

Tours in New Zealand

Things to do in New Zealand

Top destinations

Top attraction categories

Popular Attractions