Stop looking elsewhere: Stewart Island is the next place you need to prioritise for a family-friendly adventure.
Where else can you find such a treasure trove of New Zealand’s best experiences? With all kinds of activities that will send a thrill through both children and adults from sun-up to sun-down, this is an island that’s a must-visit in your lifetime.
If you’re getting ready for your first adventure to this scenic island, there’s a terribly-kept secret that you’ll quickly discover, and that’s just how much fun you’ll have even before you reach Stewart Island’s sandy shores. In fact, the journey aboard the ferry to Stewart Island could easily become one of the most unforgettable moments of your entire day!
To keep your energies focused on planning your adventure, we’ve built this handy guide to make sure you’re completely prepared before your next maritime experience. There’s no time to be wasted as you prepare for the boat journey to Stewart Island. Don’t be surprised, however, if you find yourself eager to book your next ferry trip before the first one’s even over… we’ve given you fair warning!
Where does the ferry depart from?
Bluff, which sits at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is the launching point for ferries destined for Stewart Island. A beautiful port town that’s full of activity, this area is known for its oysters, and they’re well worth a taste before your ferry departs.
Once the ferry departs Bluff, you’ll be met with the open waters of the Foveaux Strait. This incredible stretch of water is bursting to the brim with marine life, including dolphins and albatrosses. There’s plenty to catch a glimpse of, and your kids will be kept busy the entire trip while they search for the cheeky dolphin ready to race the ferry!
Planning ahead for your Stewart Island adventure
Sure, island life may be laid-back, but it doesn’t hurt to plan ahead. By booking your ferry crossing to Stewart Island ahead of time, you can ensure that you’ve got a ticket for every family member at a departure time of your preference.
You can find everything you need to know about the ferry, including its schedule, ticket prices, and booking options online. Operating daily year-round, you can enjoy this ferry transfer no matter the season.
Stewart Island’s must-do activities
Once your ferry to Stewart Island has reached its destination, days’ worth of exploration is at your fingertips. Stewart Island has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a rich historical and cultural experience, or you’re ready for a nap on the beach, this family-friendly destination has too many options to choose from.
We recommend you don’t skip:
- A quick hike on the Raroa Reserve Track (it’s just 30 minutes in each direction)
- Visiting the Rakiura Museum to see Stewart Island relics and learn about the island’s Maori history
- Chowing down on some fish and chips from local takeaway shop Kai Kart
- Drinking in the view from Observation Rock, which looks out over the Paterson Inlet
- Playing a game of giant chess on the shores of Oban while you wait for the ferry back to Bluff
- Enjoying the sunshine and competing to build the largest sandcastle on one of the island’s many beaches
An adventure you can’t afford to miss
We know New Zealand has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to destinations to explore, but take our word for it: Stewart Island should be at the top of your bucket list. With a brilliant ferry ride over that’ll whet your appetite for adventure, this experience offers the best of New Zealand’s stunning scenery, up-close experiences with local wildlife, and opportunities for the entire family to explore.
Just a short one-hour ferry ride away from Bluff, Stewart Island is eagerly waiting for your arrival. It’s time to grab your ticket, lather on the sun cream, pack a picnic, and get ready for a day you won’t ever forget!