Adventure Brief
Discover Southland’s stunning coastline with the Bluff to Invercargill ferry. This scenic water route offers breathtaking views and convenient access to remote islands.
30 minutes
easy
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Discover Southland’s stunning coastline with the Bluff to Invercargill ferry. This scenic water route offers breathtaking views and convenient access to remote islands.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and seniors
Wildlife
History
The ferry service has been vital for Stewart Island’s residents and visitors since its establishment, connecting the remote community with the mainland.
Conservation
The operation emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and minimal disturbance to wildlife, preserving Southland’s pristine environment.
Catch-a-Bus South
Discover Southland’s stunning coastline with the Bluff to Invercargill ferry. This scenic water route offers breathtaking views and convenient access to remote islands.
Catch-a-Bus South is a regional transport and tour operator serving Southland, Otago and the Queenstown-Lakes district. The business specialises in tailored charter services for groups of up to 11 passengers and offers scheduled and door-to-door transfers linking Bluff, Invercargill, Te Anau, Queenstown and Dunedin.
Catch-a-Bus South operates a range of trip types: private charters, VIP transfers, short scenic connections (such as Bluff–Invercargill and Invercargill–Bluff), and longer regional transfers between Invercargill, Te Anau and Queenstown. The operator also runs guided day tours including the Bluff Half Day Tour, The Catlins Day Tour and the Southern Catlins Shore Excursion, and provides specialised cycle transport for Milford Sound departures.
Service details and constraints are stated clearly: some services exclude certain local stops (for example, Queenstown transfers do not serve Arrowtown or Arthurs Point and require flights to arrive by 1pm), and some routes have specific bike policies (Dunedin to Invercargill bus-stop-to-bus-stop service is not available for bikes). Catch-a-Bus South is featured on The Adventure Collective and presents clear pick-up options, mid-trip stops and charter flexibility that suit travellers heading to Stewart Island, Fiordland walks and regional attractions.
All service descriptions, destination links and booking instructions are provided up front to help passengers plan seamless regional journeys.
Charter Capacity
Up to 11
Small-group charters for personalised travel
Service Area
Southland, Otago, Queenstown-Lakes
Regional coverage across South New Zealand
Featured Tour
Bluff Half Day
Customisable, award-winning tour option
Scheduled Notes
Specific constraints
Flight & bike rules listed per route
Reserve a charter, VIP transfer or day tour now — flexible pick-ups, clear policies, and routes across Southland, Otago and Queenstown-Lakes.
Arrive early for scenic views
Get onboard 15-30 minutes early to secure a good spot on the deck and enjoy the best views.
Bring layers and rain gear
The weather can change quickly; packing layers and waterproof clothing ensures comfort.
Carry binoculars for wildlife
Spot seabirds, dolphins, and other marine life with a good pair of binoculars.
Check schedule in advance
Schedules can vary seasonally; confirm your departure time ahead of your trip.
Layered clothing
Allows adjusting to changing weather conditions on the water.
all
Rain jacket
Keeps you dry during sudden showers.
rainy seasons
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing opportunities.
all
Sunscreen and hat
Protects against sun exposure during outdoor viewing.
summer