The third-largest island of New Zealand is an incredible haven of untouched landscape. Think masses of native bush, lesser-known tracks and rugged rocky mounds. Stewart Island / Rakiura is similar in size to Singapore, though its population is just 400 or so. Separated by the Foveaux Strait, Stewart Island is 30 km’s south of the South Island and is only accessible by boat or plane. This remoteness fosters a sense of wonder about the place. This little island at the very bottom of the country that is home to incredible wildlife, pest-free islands and world-class walking tracks is found on many explorers’ bucket-list.
This six-day, five-night expedition cruise is the ultimate way to experience Stewart Island. It’s just the right length of time to immerse yourself in the spectacular. Find yourself reconnecting with nature and feeling that deep appreciation for our surroundings. Board the Milford Wanderer vessel and cruise around Stewart Island. Venture to land for guided walks and wildlife spotting and enjoy kayaking and exploring from a tender (small boat). Experience an island escape like no other with this Real NZ Stewart Island Discovery Expedition.
1. A multi-day expedition of Stewart Island
This experience kicks off with a ferry crossing from Bluff across the Foveaux Strait. Board the purpose-built and appropriately grand Milford Wanderer and settle in. Cruise down to Paterson Inlet and beyond over the next six days. Aboard the vessel are the comfortable cabins, showers and all the comforts you need. The meals are prepared by an onboard chef and are the talk of the town – you won’t go home hungry! Chat with the skipper, learn from the onboard nature guide and relax in the saloon and watch the scenery pass by. So much more than a cruise, this expedition includes a visit to predator-free Ulva Island, guided walks, and kayaking. It’s an incredible journey to discover the secluded parts of the deep south.
Find out more about the expedition itinerary and other options here.
2. Your expedition vessel, the Milford Wanderer
This Stewart Island expedition is made that much more memorable thanks to the vessel. The Milford Wanderer is modern and motorised yet maintains the sailboat charm. Cruise the open sea and settled bays in this beautiful gem. Each voyage departs with a maximum of 32 passengers – a number that allows for plenty of space yet evening socialising after a day of exploring too.
3. Onboard nature guide
When you find yourself with a burning question about the area, the onboard nature guide is there to help. A specialist in all things wildlife and conservation, they are passionate about Stewart Island and this discovery expedition. Together you’ll encounter various ferns, seaweed and other native flora along the way. In the evenings you can cosy up with a hot drink and enjoy an informative talk from the nature guide to wrap up your day nicely.
4. The sea voyage
The scenery during this expedition cruise is truly breathtaking. For a couple of days on the expedition you’ll be out at sea, voyaging from the main township of Oban to nooks and crannies of Stewart Island that are virtually untouched. Just as you think you’ve seen how diverse this terrain is, you voyage again to another incredible corner. Walk around the deck and lap up the fresh air. There’s no shortage of viewing decks on the Milford Wanderer. It’s an expedition fit for the explorer in all of us.
5. Bald Cone
Not only is this Stewart Island expedition a fantastic cruise, but it also allows for some visits ashore to explore the dense native bush and fantastic walks. If you wish, head to the island with your nature guide via the tender vessel. Explore golden sand beaches where the wildlife are free to roam undisturbed. Being the only ones on the beach has never been so special. The morning walk up Bald Cone is one to remember, with impressive views of the island and bays. It’s a granite peak dotted with pieces of quartz and boasting a steep incline.
6. Wildlife, birdlife and predator-free Ulva Island
This untouched landscape is a refuge for incredible wildlife. Blue penguins and yellow eyed penguins are seen here. Huge sea lions roam the beaches. The native birdlife is out of this world. Keep your eyes peeled for weka, yellowhead / mōhua and South Island robin. Belive it or not, there are more brown kiwi living on Stewart Isalnd than people. A Stewart Island expedition is not complete without a visit to Ulva Island. You’ll visit this bird sanctuary on your journey, as well as a historic whaling station.
Keen on booking an experience to Ulva Island? Check out this Ulva Island Explorer tour.
7. Kayaking at Stewart Island
To take your experience to the next level, Real NZ have kayaks on board. As you dock in a secluded bay, take the opportunity to kayak around the shores of Stewart Island. Explore the coastline and enjoy a leisurely kayak to the beautiful Belltopper Falls. Look back to the anchored Milford Wanderer for a great view of your floating accommodation.
This article was created in paid partnership with Real NZ.
