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Ulva Island Explorer Cruise and Guided Walk
Discover Stewart Island’s natural wildlife sanctuary and take a sea cruise out to Ulva Island.
What to expect
Discover Ulva Island, a haven for rare and endangered species.
Cruise past unspoiled beaches and hidden coves before stepping ashore on Ulva Island with a local guide. Walk the forest and beach trails through one of New Zealand's most precious bird sanctuaries — home to saddlebacks (tīeke), yellowheads (mohua), Stewart Island robins (toutouwai), parakeets (kākāriki), and kākās, alongside some of the country's rarest plant species. Along the way, keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, seabirds, and penguins
What's included
- Return coastal cruise on a catamaran to Ulva Island Birdlife Sanctuary
- 1.5 hour guided walk through native forest and sandy beaches
- Listen and look out for rare native birds - learning their calls and behaviour from your guide
- Spot marine wildlife during the cruise and on the island
Visit date
Select the date you'd like to visit to check ticket availability.
Note
- From 31 May our Ulva Island Explorer experience will conclude for the season, starting up again 1 September
- Suitable to link to the last ferry, so can be done in one day if preferred
Extras
- Price: $30pp - Must be pre-ordered prior to 12pm the day before travel
- Includes: Filled roll, fresh fruit, brownie/muffin, dried fruits (raisins, berries, etc.), complimentary tea and coffee
- If you require a vegetarian, dairy-free, gluten-free or vegan lunch, please add this into the comments box during the booking process. Menus are indicative only
Seasons
- September to May
Time
- For visitors travelling on the Stewart Island Ferry Service, you are required to check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time (to allow for luggage loading, etc)
- The check in and boarding gates are closed 10 minutes prior to scheduled ferry departure
Duration
- 2 hours and 15 minutes
Departure Location
- Stewart Island Ferry Terminal, Stewart Island
What To Bring
- Non-slip shoes/boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm sweater/fleece jacket
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Personal medication (including for asthma and allergies)
- RealNZ is now cashless, please be prepared to make cashless payments onboard
