Stewart Island

Discovery Cruises

Located at the southern tip of New Zealand, Stewart Island is a natural refuge for native birds, marine life and rare flora. Most of the island is protected as national park, except for a small section that has been set aside for tiny Oban Village. This island is renowned for its spectacular dawn and twilight hues; its Maori name Rakiura means “land of the glowing skies”.

Our multi-day Discovery Cruises will take you far beyond the beaten track to reveal the breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife of this island sanctuary.

Stewart Island Discovery Cruise (6 days)

Your journey begins with a cruise across Foveaux Strait from Bluff to Stewart Island’s eastern shoreline. Over the next six days, you will cruise in some of the most magical waters in New Zealand, venturing ashore regularly for guided walks and visits to historic sites.

Relax in the sheltered harbour of Port Adventure where you will learn about local iwi Maori history and have the chance to hear – and maybe even see – kiwi. Then voyage to Port Pegasus to view the granite domes of Gog and Magog and, if weather permits, visit the sea lion colony.

There is no better way to experience Stewart Island than during the winter season when the weather is at its most settled.

The vessel – Milford Wanderer

Just because you’re escaping civilisation doesn’t mean you have to go without its comforts. Our vessel, the Milford Wanderer, is a modern motorised vessel that has been purpose built for navigating southern New Zealand. Designed along the lines of a traditional sailing scow, it has old world charm combined with modern facilities and the latest in safety equipment.

• 34 passengers per departure
• Specialist nature guides 
• Warm, comfortable accommodation (two passengers per sleeping compartment - vessel layout) 
• Duvets, sheets and towels provided
• Modern bathroom facilities with hot showers 
• Hearty meals prepared by onboard chef 
• Open bridge policy - chat with the skipper during the voyage
• Kayaks and small motorised craft available for passenger use

Our passengers

Discovery Cruises attract people of all ages. All you need is an average level of fitness, a love of the outdoors and a sense of adventure. As a rough guide, you need to be physically fit enough to comfortably climb a flight of steep stairs.

“New friendships are made quickly on board. There’s a sense of eager anticipation – of sharing a real adventure. Everyone has chosen to cruise the southern latitudes rather than the South Pacific.”
Quote from past passenger