Stewart Island | 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. The most adventurous way to reach Stewart Island is by the ferry from Bluff.

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 catamaran
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 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: 4.30 pm
October – April: 11.00 am
June – August: 4.30 pm
26 December – January: 8.00 am

Departs Stewart Island:

All Year: 8.00 am
October – May & September: 3.00 pm
October – March: 6.30 pm
April: 5.00 pm
June – August: 3.00 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: 7.00 am

Departs Stewart Island:

1 November – 30 April: 8.00 am

Coach & Ferry Service between Queenstown & Stewart Island

Departs Queenstown:

1 November – 30 April: 6.40 am

Departs Stewart Island:

1 November – 30 April: 8.00 am

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

Duration

Ferry service each direction: 1 hour
Coach & Ferry Service from Invercargill: 2 hours
Coach & Ferry Service from Te Anau: 5-6 hours
Coach & Ferry Service from Queenstown: 5-6 hours

Location

Bluff: Bluff Wharf Visitor Terminal

Stewart Island: Oban Wharf Visitor Terminal, Stewart Is.

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.

Book the Stewart Island Ferry

You can book the ferry separately or as part of one of our New Zealand holiday packages. We bundle activities, accommodation, and transportation together for convenient, affordable New Zealand holidays.

Popular New Zealand holiday packages with a stay on Stewart Island include:

Contact New Zealand Travel Organiser today to plan your visit to Stewart Island.