Oban (Stewart Island) - Ulva Island
Ferries to Stewart Island
Oban (Stewart Island) - Ulva Island
Ferries to Stewart Island
On the Oban (Stewart Island) Ulva Island route, fares generally fall between $154* and $155*. On average, a Oban (Stewart Island) Ulva Island ferry ticket costs around $154*, with the lowest Oban (Stewart Island) Ulva Island fares starting at $154*. Foot passengers pay an average of $154*.
Actual fares depend on passenger numbers, vehicle type, chosen route and sailing time. Figures are based on fares searched over the past 30 days, exclude service fees, and were last refreshed September 26.
Compare fares, operators and sailing times from across the globe in one place, then book with confidence. Booking ahead is the easiest way to lock in a better price and a wider choice of departures.
Yes. Direct Ferries runs a number of discounts throughout the year. If a senior discount applies to your route, it's applied automatically once you select the right age range in the passenger options during your search.
Students and recent graduates can save 5% on their booking. Simply register with our partner Student Beans to verify your status, and you'll be issued a discount code to apply at checkout.
On several Spanish and Italian routes, residents can also access a discounted fare — look out for the "Residents" option during your search, which applies the reduced price automatically. Keep in mind you'll be asked to show proof of residency, such as a registration certificate or an ID card showing your address, at check-in.
Oban (Stewart Island) Ulva Island sailings usually begin with a departure from Oban (Stewart Island) at approximately 10:30, with the final sailing of the day leaving around 11:15.
Absolutely, the short crossing time and frequent daily sailings make Oban (Stewart Island) to Ulva Island a popular choice for a day trip. If you can, bringing a vehicle lets you venture further afield once you arrive, on your own schedule.
No, none of the operators currently running this route accept vehicles on board sailings between Oban (Stewart Island) and Ulva Island.
Bicycles currently aren't accepted on any of the ferries running between Oban (Stewart Island) and Ulva Island.
Yes, Ulva Island Water Taxi accepts foot passengers on sailings between Oban (Stewart Island) and Ulva Island.
Pets currently aren't permitted on board ferries between Oban (Stewart Island) and Ulva Island. Try our Deal Finder to search for alternative routes that do accommodate pets.
Even though pets aren't permitted on this route, guide dogs and assistance dogs are often subject to separate rules. Speak with our customer service team to check the specific policy for your sailing, or see our Special Assistance Help page for more information.
Overnight sailings on the Oban (Stewart Island) to Ulva Island route aren't guaranteed and depend on a range of factors. Run a search with your travel details and our results will show whether an overnight option is available, along with current timetables, crossing times, and day-sailing alternatives.
Bear in mind that overnight crossings can run a little longer than their daytime equivalents.
Document requirements aren't the same on every route, so it's worth confirming what you'll need before you travel. A valid passport is generally required for the Oban (Stewart Island) to Ulva Island crossing, alongside any visas or national ID your nationality calls for. Exact requirements depend on your citizenship and the rules of your destination country, so for the latest guidance and to avoid delays at check-in, take a look at our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide.
Booking is straightforward: enter your departure and arrival ports along with your travel date to pull up every available sailing and fare. You can also browse alternative routes and departure times to find the option that works best for you.
Keep an eye out for early-booking savings and flexible ticket types, including upgrades or flexi-fares that let you amend or cancel later on. For a hassle-free booking, double-check the details you enter, such as passenger numbers and any vehicle specifications.
As soon as your booking is confirmed, you'll get a confirmation email. Exactly how your boarding pass is issued after that depends on which operator you've booked with.
Some operators send your boarding pass out the moment you book, while others require check-in at the port itself. Where it's offered, online check-in is also available through the Direct Ferries app, saving you a step at the terminal.
You'll typically find the ticket desk close to the ferry terminal itself. It's a good idea to arrive a little early so you have plenty of time to collect your tickets and get checked in without rushing.
At check-in, have your confirmation email ready along with valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If you're travelling with a pet, bring along their vaccination and insurance paperwork, and if you booked using a resident discount, be prepared to show proof of address too.
A few things can explain a lack of sailings on your chosen date: a temporary schedule change, limited space, or a seasonal shift in the timetable are the most common. It's worth trying a nearby date or exploring alternative routes using our Route & Port finder.
As a rule, the earlier you book your Oban (Stewart Island) to Ulva Island ferry, the better. Booking ahead tends to secure lower fares along with a wider pick of departure times and cabin or seating options.
Aim to book at least a few weeks ahead to make the most of the best available offers, keeping in mind that fares can shift depending on the season and how much space is left.
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| Oban (Stewart Island) - Ulva Island Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $154 | |
| Oban (Stewart Island) - Ulva Island Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Stewart Island |
| Destination | Stewart Island |
| No. of Operators | 1 |
| Operators | Ulva Island Water Taxi |
| Average Price | $154 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 1 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 7 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 30 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 30 m |
| First Ferry | 10:30 |
| Last Ferry | 11:15 |
| Distance | 2 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 September 2026.
Oban is found on the popular tourist destination of Stewart Island, the third largest belonging to New Zealand. The only ferry route departing the port is to Bluff on South Island, supplied by Stewart Island Experience Ferries and typically lasts around an hour.
