Exploring the untamed beauty of Stewart Island, the Ulva Island Explorer offers an immersive nature experience. This 2.5-hour guided tour takes adventurers on a cruise through Paterson Inlet, followed by a walking tour of the Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary. With expert guides, visitors can spot native wildlife and uncover the island’s unique biodiversity. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, the Ulva Island Explorer promises an unforgettable encounter with New Zealand’s pristine wilderness.
Key Points
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A 2.5-hour guided cruise and walking tour on Stewart Island, offering opportunities to spot native wildlife and learn about the area’s history and ecological significance.
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A 1.5-hour guided walk on Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary, where visitors can expect to see rare birds and appreciate the island’s tranquil beauty.
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Flexible booking policy with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Overall tour rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 135 reviews, with positive feedback highlighting knowledgeable guides and engaging wildlife encounters.
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Recommended items for the tour include insect repellent, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the weather, as well as the importance of proper gear for the Ulva Island exploration.
Activity Overview
The Ulva Island Explorer offers visitors a 2.5-hour guided cruise and walking tour on Stewart Island. Priced from $80.01 per person, the tour is likely to sell out, so travelers should check availability for starting times.
The tour features a flexible booking policy, allowing customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment. Plus, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for travelers.
Looking for more options in Stewart Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Cruise Experience
Enjoy a leisurely cruise from Stewart Island through Paterson Inlet, taking in stunning views of unspoiled beaches and hidden coves.
Look out for native wildlife including seals, penguins, and various sea birds during the cruise.
Native wildlife including seals, penguins, and sea birds can be spotted during the leisurely cruise.
Hear stories of early Maori history and European settlement while passing significant landmarks.
The cruise experience offers a chance to witness the natural beauty of the area and learn about its rich history, all while keeping an eye out for the diverse array of wildlife that inhabits the region.
Guided Walk on Ulva Island
After the leisurely cruise, visitors are taken to the Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary for a guided walk of approximately 1.5 hours. Specialist nature guides provide engaging commentary on the island’s unique flora and fauna. Visitors can expect to spot a variety of native birds, including the rare saddleback and yellowhead, along with the iconic weka and bush robin. The guided walk offers a chance to appreciate the island’s tranquil beauty and learn about its ecological significance.
| Wildlife Highlights | Rare Plant Species |
|———————|——————-|
| Weka | Endangered plants |
| Bush Robins | Unique vegetation |
| Saddlebacks | Native flora |
| Yellowheads | Diverse ecosystem |
Customer Feedback
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Ulva Island Explorer tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 135 reviews.
The guide rating scored an exceptional 4.8, and the transportation rating reached 4.7. Reviewers highlighted the excellent value for money, rating it 4.5 out of 5.
Glowing reviews include:
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Graeme from Australia praising the guide, Natasha, and the incredible bird sightings, including endangered species.
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Catherine from the UK enjoying the tour despite fewer bird sightings, appreciating the guide’s knowledge of vegetation.
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Bev from New Zealand finding the walk easy, informative, and delighting in encounters with sea lions and kaka.
Preparation and Meeting Information
To prepare for the Ulva Island Explorer tour, visitors should bring insect repellent, sunscreen, sunglasses, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, non-slip shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, and a warm sweater or fleece.
Guests are advised to arrive 20 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time at the Stewart Island Visitor Terminal, Main Wharf, Halfmoon Bay. This allows time to check in and ensure a smooth start to the excursion.
With the proper gear and punctuality, visitors can look forward to an immersive and engaging exploration of the Ulva Island Wildlife Sanctuary.
Maori History and European Settlement
The cruise along Paterson Inlet provides passengers with historical insights into the region’s Maori history and European settlement. The guide shares captivating tales of the area’s past:
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Maori settlement dating back centuries, with the island serving as an important food source and meeting place.
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The arrival of European whalers and sealers in the 1800s, who established outposts and trade routes.
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The transition to a more diverse economy, including timber logging and farming, as Maori and European communities interacted.
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The designation of Ulva Island as a wildlife sanctuary, preserving the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
Unique Flora and Fauna
Although Ulva Island is a relatively small landmass, it boasts an incredibly diverse array of native flora and fauna.
The guided walk through the island sanctuary offers visitors the chance to spot rare and endemic species, like the saddleback, yellowhead, and the comical-looking weka. Sharp-eyed travelers may even catch glimpses of penguins and seals along the coastline.
The specialist nature guides provide expert commentary, sharing insights into the unique adaptations and conservation efforts that protect this precious ecosystem.
Immersed in the lush, untouched forests, visitors can appreciate the island’s ecological significance and natural wonders.
Booking and Availability
Given the popularity of the Ulva Island Explorer tour, it’s recommended to check availability and book in advance, as tours are known to sell out quickly.
The tour offers:
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Flexible booking options, allowing you to reserve your spot without upfront payment.
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour for a full refund.
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Availability check for various starting times to fit your schedule.
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The opportunity to explore the untouched Ulva Island, a sanctuary for rare and endemic species, with expert nature guides.
The Sum Up
The Stewart Island: Ulva Island Explorer offers an unparalleled nature-based experience, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Stewart Island. Travelers can expect a leisurely cruise, guided walk, and insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna, all for a competitive price. This adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive and memorable encounter with New Zealand’s stunning wilderness.
You can check availability for your dates here: