Discover Stewart Island
Cruise the wild south in a six-day Discovery Cruise on board the Milford Wanderer

Christine Hartley - 13/05/05

Real Journeys is offering passengers the chance to learn more about Stewart Island on two six-day Discovery Cruises aboard the 30-metre Milford Wanderer, a vessel designed along the lines of a traditional coastal trading scow.

Milford Wanderer Click here to view a larger version

The Maori called Stewart Island Te Puka o te Waka a Maui – The anchor stone of Maui’s Canoe – the anchor that secured Stewart Island to the rest of New Zealand.

For many Kiwis though, this triangle at the end of the country is very much an unknown quantity. But its relative isolation and its small population (under 400) is just part of its enduring appeal. For those interested in nature, wildlife and the great outdoors, a six-day cruise along the coastline of this remote wilderness is a special experience.

New Zealand Fur seals on Stewart Island Click here to view a larger version

Hearty food from the ship’s galley fortifies passengers for adventures at the various ports of call. An on board nature guide provides evening talks during the cruise and leads walks ashore. At Port Pegasus fascinating scenery and wildlife experiences await with the opportunity to view the granite domes of Gog and Magog, Belltopper Falls and Smugglers Cove.

Port Pegasus Stewart Island Click here to view a larger version

Great views reward those who want to keep shipshape with a walk up to Bald Cone or the Tablelands and weather permitting there is a visit to a sea lion colony. At the sheltered harbour of Port Adventure, sandy beaches, and the chance to hear and see kiwi are some of the highlights. At Paterson Inlet, passengers disembark to visit the bird sanctuary of Ulva Island.

New Zealand native bird – the South Island Saddleback Click here to view a larger version

The Stewart Island Discovery Cruise provides a unique combination of adventure, history, knock your socks off natural beauty and good company. Highlights include wildlife viewing, visits to historic sites, guided walks through rainforest and along deserted beaches, and kayaking and tender craft cruising in sheltered bays.

To learn more detail about these cruises read Cruise to Stewart Island/Rakiura

- an interview with a passenger who found the cruise of great interest.

Real Journeys Discovery Cruises depart Bluff 17-22 July and 24-29July.
Accommodation: Comfortable bunks (two people per compartment).
Cost $1600 per person (Includes coach transfers from Invercargill, accommodation on board, all meals and activities).
For further information telephone 0800 656 501 or visit the company's website. www.realjourneys.co.nz

Want to read about Stewart Island guided walks?
Click through to the article.

Photos for this article were supplied by Real Journeys.