Stewart Island Experience Ferry Services

Stewart Island is New Zealand’s ultimate eco-tourism destination. Its densely forested hills, and untouched coastline of rocky outcrops and creamy golden sand beaches make it a haven for native marine and bird life.

Vivid dawn and twilight hues give rise to the island’s Maori name, Rakiura – land of the glowing skies.

Transport/Activity Options

Stewart Island Ferry & Coach Transfers

• Stewart Island is perfect for a day excursion or an extended stay
• Experience Foveaux Strait in comfort and style on board an express catamarans
• During the one-hour crossing between Bluff and Stewart Island keep a look out for wildlife, including seals, dolphins and sea birds
• The friendly staff provide informative commentaries and point out highlights
• Complimentary tea and coffee available on board ferry

Coach Transfers

• To ensure excellent connections with the Stewart Island Ferry Services, coach transfers are offered between Queenstown, Te Anau or Invercargill to Bluff

Departures

Ferry Services Between Bluff & Stewart Island

Departs Bluff:

• All Year: 9.30 am
• October – May & September: 5 pm
• October – April: 11 am
• June – August: 4.30 pm
• 26 December – January: 8 am

Departs Stewart Island:

• All Year: 8 am
• October – May & September: 3.30 pm
• October – March: 6.30 pm
• April: 5 pm
• June – August: 3 pm
• 26 December – January: 9.30 am

Coach & Ferry Service between Invercargill & Stewart Island

Departs Invercargill:

• All Year: Pick-up 1 hour prior to ferry departure

Departs Bluff:

• All Year: Drop-off 1 hour after ferry arrival

Coach & Ferry Service between Te Anau & Stewart Island

Departs Te Anau:

• 1 November – 30 April: 7.15 am

Departs Stewart Island:

• 1 November – 30 April: 8 am

Coach & Ferry Service between Queenstown & Stewart Island

Departs Queenstown:

• 1 November – 30 April: 7 am

Departs Stewart Island:

• 1 November – 30 April: 8 am

Duration

• Ferry to/from Stewart Island: 1 hour
• Coach & Ferry Service between Invercargill & Stewart Island: 2 hours
• Coach & Ferry Service between Te Anau & Stewart Island: 5-6 hours
• Coach & Ferry Service between Queenstown & Stewart Island: 5-6 hours

Other Information

• Wheelchair accessible (ferry only)
• Suitable for all ages
• Vehicle parking available at Bluff (extra cost)
• Luggage limit – two carry bags per person (extra goods by arrangement)
• Reservations are required
• Ferry check in 30 minutes prior to departures

Location

Stewart Island Ferry: Bluff Wharf Visitor Terminal and Oban Wharf Visitor Terminal, Stewart Island.

Invercargill – Bluff Coach transfers – pick up/drop off from: Invercargill i-Site Visitor Centre on Gala Street (Museum), Tuatara Lodge & ‘Readings’ Cinema on Dee Street.

Te Anau and Queenstown Coach transfers depart from Te Anau and Queenstown Real Journeys Visitor Centres.