Departing Halfmoon Bay wharf in Oban your cruise begins with the historic Harrold’s Bay Stone Cottage, one of New Zealand’s oldest stone buildings. At Acker’s Point, birdlife is abundant and sightings may include sooty shearwaters (muttonbirds), mollymawks and little blue penguins.

Learn about our Ulva Island Bird Sanctuary as your guide provides a commentary on the history and national significance of this unique bird and flora sanctuary. 

For those wanting to experience a flexible Ulva Island freedom walk in addition to the Discovery Cruise, you can contact us to arrange a time that suits you through our Ulva Island Add-On.

Travel through the Ulva Island/ Te Wharawhara Marine Reserve, and learn about the important role this ancient river valley plays in providing habitat and nursery grounds for a plethora of fish, seaweed and prehistoric Brachiopods (lamp shells).

Next, enjoy a tour of the historic Norwegian Whaler’s Base from the water. We then travel past the Bravo Islands into Big Glory Bay to explore the local Marine Farms and Stewart Island’s fascinating aquaculture industry. Leaving Big Glory Bay, we travel along The Neck, believed to be Stewart Island’s earliest Māori settlement.  

Encounter spectacular wildlife with spotting opportunities including Yellow-Eyed Penguins, NZ fur seals, bottlenose dolphins and more, before returning to the Halfmoon Bay wharf.

Lunch packs are available from the Stewart Island 4 Square store (orders and collection arrangements can be made directly on 03 219 1069).

• Warm, comfortable clothing and suitable footwear
• Wet weather coat, especially for Ulva Island Add-On customers
• Binoculars (optional)
• Personal water bottle, lunch and snacks
• Complimentary Tea and Coffee is provided, (however this service is may be unavailable if under the NZ COVID-19 Protection Framework Red level)