Stewart Island: Ulva Island Cruise & Guided Walk with Wildlife

Paterson Inlet cruise to Ulva Island wildlife sanctuary with local stories

You’ll set off from Stewart Island for a gentle cruise through Paterson Inlet, scanning for seals and penguins before stepping onto Ulva Island’s quiet trails. With a local guide sharing stories and pointing out rare birds in the sanctuary, you’ll get close to nature in ways that stick with you long after you leave.

What’s included

Your day includes a leisurely cruise around Paterson Inlet with live commentary from your local guide, a guided walking tour through Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary, GST tax covered in your ticket price, and—if you arrange it directly after booking—a picnic lunch option before heading back to Stewart Island.

Traveler reviews

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cruise and walk on Ulva Island

• Arrive 20 minutes early to check in
• Take cruise around Paterson Inlet
• Spot fur seals and penguins
• Visit historic whaler’s base at Prices Inlet
• Explore hidden coves and beaches
• Enjoy guided walk in Ulva Island Sanctuary
• Learn about island landscape and history

The Experience

"That’s a tūī," our guide whispered, pointing up just as the bird let out this odd, metallic call — honestly, it sounded like R2-D2 had joined the forest. We’d only just landed on Ulva Island after drifting through Paterson Inlet, the water calm enough that I could see our boat’s reflection wobble every time someone shifted their weight. The air smelled sharp, like wet bark and seaweed. I kept thinking how different it felt from the mainland — quieter, but not empty. More like the island was listening back.

The cruise from Stewart Island started slow, which I liked. Our group leaned over the railings watching for New Zealand fur seals (we spotted two, both pretending we didn’t exist) and then someone shouted “penguin!” but it turned out to be a floating log. Our guide — Sarah, who grew up here — had this way of telling stories that made even old whaling sites sound alive. She pointed out Prices Inlet and talked about what used to happen there; I tried to imagine those days but mostly just noticed how green everything looked against the grey sky.

Walking on Ulva Island was… well, I’m still thinking about it days later. The path was soft underfoot and sometimes you’d hear birds before you saw them — flashes of yellow or blue darting past your ear. At one point we stopped by a little cove where the sand squeaked under my shoes (nobody warned me about squeaky sand). Lunch wasn’t included unless you booked ahead (I forgot), but honestly I barely noticed because I was too busy trying to catch a glimpse of a saddleback in the bush. So yeah, if you’re into wildlife or just want to feel small in a good way, this day trip from Stewart Island is worth it.

Top questions

How long does the Ulva Island Explorer tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours including both the cruise and guided walk.

Is lunch included in the tour?

A picnic lunch is available if you contact the operator after booking; otherwise lunch is not included by default.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from Stewart Island and cruises around Paterson Inlet before landing at Ulva Island.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

You may see New Zealand fur seals, penguins, and various native birds on Ulva Island.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels as per operator information.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed according to additional info provided.

Do infants need their own seat?

No, infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap during the tour.