FerryConnect

New Zealand

Bluff → Stewart Island (Oban)

The one-hour Foveaux Strait crossing from Bluff, at the bottom of the South Island, to Oban on Rakiura Stewart Island, gateway to Rakiura National Park, kiwi spotting and Ulva Island’s bird sanctuary.

⏱ About 1h🚢 1 operator📅 2 sailings daily each way, 3 in peak season
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Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry at a glance

The ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) takes About 1h across the Foveaux Strait, operated by RealNZ (Stewart Island Experience). It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: 2 sailings daily each way, 3 in peak season.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-29.

Sources: realnz.com · How we verify

Return crossing: Stewart Island (Oban) to Bluff

RealNZ (Stewart Island Experience) also sails Stewart Island (Oban) to Bluff, taking About 1h. From October 2026 ferries leave Oban at 7:30am and 4:00pm (plus 12:00pm from 1 December).

Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry timetable & sailing pattern

2 departures daily from Bluff, 3 from 1 December 2026

From 1 Oct 2026: Bluff 9:15am and 5:30pm; from 1 Dec 2026 a 2:00pm sailing is added.

Published departure times

  • 9:15am
  • 2:00pm (from 1 Dec)
  • 5:30pm

Return: From October 2026 ferries leave Oban at 7:30am and 4:00pm (plus 12:00pm from 1 December).

Timetables change by season and date. Check exact departures for your travel date on the official timetable.

Official RealNZ (Stewart Island Experience) timetable →Check prices & book on 12Go →

Source: RealNZ Stewart Island ferry page. Verified 2026-09-29.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between Bluff and Stewart Island (Oban)

📐 20 Nautical Miles
Bluff⇄Stewart Island (Oban)
⏱ About 1h · 📐 20 nm
© OpenFreeMap / OSM
⚡ Instant E-Ticket

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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
RealNZ (Stewart Island Experience)1hPassenger catamaran

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

20 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • Bluff terminal: 21 Foreshore Road, with parking beside the terminal.
  • Coach connections run from Invercargill, about 27 km north of Bluff.
  • Luggage allowance is two bags plus one small carry-on; bikes and kayaks carry a surcharge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the ferry from Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban)?
The crossing typically takes About 1h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
How often does the Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry sail?
2 departures daily from Bluff, 3 from 1 December 2026. From 1 Oct 2026: Bluff 9:15am and 5:30pm; from 1 Dec 2026 a 2:00pm sailing is added. This is the pattern published in the RealNZ Stewart Island ferry page (checked 2026-09-29); confirm exact departure times on the official timetable before you travel.
Which ferry companies sail from Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban)?
RealNZ (Stewart Island Experience) operates this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the Bluff to Stewart Island (Oban) ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is Bluff from Stewart Island (Oban) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 20 nautical miles (roughly 37 km).