Discover Ulva Island

Enjoy a day on the water and explore an untouched eco-tour island and one of New Zealand’s best kept natural secrets. Stewart Island – which is located only a one hour ferry ride across Foveaux Strait from Bluff – is the perfect destination for those who want to see the real, untouched New Zealand. Also known as Rakiura (the isle of glowing skies), Stewart Island is famed for its amazingly beautiful and eclectic scenery, including bays, inlets, golden beaches, crystal clear water and thick, lush forested hills.

Stewart Island from the water is spectacular, and your cruise around Paterson Inlet will give you the best vantage point to see the amazing scenery of hidden coves and pristine beaches. With full commentary, you will learn about the fascinating early history of the area, including information about the local Māori population, European settlement and the whaling that took place here. The skipper and nature guide will answer any questions you may have, allowing you to develop a thorough understanding of this amazing part of the world.

During your cruise, be sure to keep an eye out for some of the local wildlife, including fur seals, penguins, dolphins and mollymawks, as well as a variety of other bird and sea life.

Afterwards, you will disembark at Ulva Island for a 45 minute, specialist-led, guided nature walk around this amazing wildlife sanctuary. You will see rare flora and a plethora of wildlife and birdlife, including the curious little weka, which are usually spotted on the beach. It is clear that the Skipper and guides all love this beautiful area and its natural inhabitants, and their passion is contagious, so you will come away feeling a new respect for New Zealand’s conservation efforts, and a passion for the stunning flora and fauna of the region.

After your Ulva Island tour, you will enjoy a relaxing trip back to base on the modern catamaran, while taking in the stunning coastal scenery along the way.