Ferry Services Between Bluff and Stewart Island
Overview
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Zip across Foveaux Strait between Bluff and Stewart Island and back on our comfortable catamarans. Visit Stewart Island, just one hour’s ferry ride from Bluff and New Zealand’s ultimate eco-tourism destination. During the trip keep an eye out for wildlife – particularly seabirds such as Mollymawk (Albatross) and Titi which often follow the vessel. Our friendly staff provide informative commentary and point out highlights.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The limit is a maximum of two small carry-on pieces of luggage per person. Other luggage is moved in freight boxes, and must be checked in 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time
Parking is available at Bluff Visitor Terminal for an additional cost
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
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. Where weather and staffing permit, 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.
What‘s Included
Live commentary on board (weather and staff dependant)
Luggage allowance: two checked bags plus one small carry-on per person
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Options
Stewart Island to Bluff
Route: Stewart Island to Bluff
Bluff to Stewart Island
Route: Bluff to Stewart Island: Multiple ferry times. Duration of journey is 1 hour. Arrive into Oban, Stewart Island.
Starting point:
Ferry Terminal, 13 Foreshore Road, Bluff 9814, New Zealand
Reviews
12 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Ferry Trip
nicr0se13,Apr 23, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic service. Crew were friendly and helpful. Information about parking was spot on and very reasonable to park car at Bluff terminal for a few days.
Nightmare sailing
Leanne O,Nov 1, 2020
- Review from Viator
1.00It was the worst ferry sailing ive ever encountered. The sea was rough as... I was very unwell n won't be taking the ferry ever again...
Fast and efficient
Craig T,Jul 26, 2020
- Review from Viator
4.00Dion and his crew great ambassadors for the ferry service. Was pretty rough but they were calm and proffessional and gave us a running commentary on islands and history. Fast and efficient service.
Super Stewart Island
Lesley W,Feb 24, 2020
- Review from Viator
5.00One of the highlights of my South Island holiday. We had a lovely smooth crossing the way over, then did the villages and bays coach trip, which was very worthwhile. Then had a drink in the pub and fish and chips from the Kai cart
Punctual and easy trip
peter h,Feb 15, 2020
- Review from Viator
5.00Very comfortable and fast,great way to get to and from Stewart island, comfortable seating and good baggage handling
An hour well spent
sheilamaryharper,Feb 7, 2020
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat departed on time on both occasions. The staff were friendly and helpful and concerned for the well-being of passengers. The return journey was much smoother than the outward journey.
Beautiful
Louparr,Jan 14, 2020
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Stunning crossing. Crew were all lovely and helpful. Saw dolphins in the harbor before we left. wonderful trip
Happy traveller
Tourist31431620761,Nov 12, 2019
- Review from Viator
5.00The crew were very helpful with helping me on and off the boat. Lovely sailing both ways. Would definitely stay on Stewart Is next time. Had a great birthday long weekend. Thanks.
Disappointed
Sharon W,Aug 19, 2019
- Review from Viator
3.00Having spent $296 for the fare and $90 for a 5hr car we were 15mins late leaving then instead of a 1 hour trip was 1.5 hr each way. Couldnt do our trip to Ulva Island. :(
An unpredicted as it takes the...
MAISHIHAH A,Jan 8, 2018
- Review from Viator
5.00An unpredicted as it takes the nature to determine the fate of the trip. As for us the trip to the island from Bluff was tough with the strong waves. But, it turned to be a smooth and pleasant one during our trip back to Bluff.
From NZ$145.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
Related Experiences
Operated by RealNZ