D'Urville Island
6-day tour
D'Urville remains one of New Zealand’s most intriguing and remote corners, with a rich history, remarkable conservation efforts, stunning scenery and local characters.
Although just off the tip of the Marlborough Sounds, D'Urville Island is a challenge to access. Guarded by the famously turbulent waters of French Pass, those who make the effort are rewarded by rugged scenery, abundant wildlife, fascinating history and genuine connections with the locals.
You’ll stay on a remote coastal farm, where your accommodation is set in the very location that inspired the book Angelina: From Stromboli to D’Urville. It’s a place with its own stories, and a fitting base for exploring the island.
During your time here, you’ll meet locals, hear stories of the island’s past, and experience the natural environment up close. There’s the chance to try blue cod fishing, spot dolphins and rare birdlife, and take in the island from above on a scenic flight.
Due to the remoteness and difficulty in getting this isolated island, this tour is limited to seven guests and we have two guides to ensure your safety and comfort.
Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to D'Urville Island and be guided around one of New Zealand's most fascinating and difficult to access islands.
Each tour is unique
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Our small groups allow us to adapt to the weather and better support the particular interests of our guests.
Tour highlights
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Arrival dinner featuring local produce in Havelock
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Scenic drive to French Pass, followed by a boat crossing through its renowned waters
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Stay on a remote coastal farm, located on the farm where Angelina: From Stromboli to D’Urville was set
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Home cooked meals using local produce
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Scenic flight over D’Urville and Stephens Islands
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Blue cod fishing experience
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Opportunity to see wildlife including dolphins, Powelliphanta snails, fernbirds, and king shags
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Time spent with locals, hearing stories of island life and history
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Explore DOC and iwi-managed land, including wetlands and serene beaches
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Wander through DOC and Iwi-managed lands, exploring pristine wetlands and serene beaches
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Exclusive small group travel with two experienced guides, ensuring a personalised experience tailored to your needs
Tour inclusions
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Pick-up and drop-off from Nelson on arrival and departure days (set times)
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5 nights twin-share accommodation (shared facilities)
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All transport throughout the tour
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All meals included: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
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All activities as described, including scenic flight and fishing
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Access to private properties and remote areas
Tour exclusions
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Snacks and alcoholic beverages
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Travel insurance
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The tour begins and ends in Havelock. We offer complimentary pick-up in Nelson on the arrival day and drop-off in Nelson on departure day. You're responsible for all arrangements before and after the tour. But if you'd like help, our experienced in-house travel agent can organise any flights, transport and travel insurance you may require. Just let us know when booking, or contact us to discuss your needs.
Quick facts
Tour Dates:
14 Feb - 19 Feb 2027
21 Feb - 26 Feb 2027
Starts and ends: Havelock - Nelson pick-up and drop-off available
Days: 6 days, 5 nights
Group Size: Min 6 / Max 7
Destinations: Havelock, Okiwi Bay, French Pass and D'Urville Island
Transport: Private 4WD van, charter boat and small plane
Accommodation: 1night at a 3-star motel (ensuite), 4 nights in two farm cottages with shared facilities
Price:
$5,890 per person (twin-share)
$6,290 per person (sole occupancy room) - see 'Other important details' below
WE DONATE
PER TOUR TO THE D'URVILLE ISLAND COMMUNITY
ASSOCIATION
$800
Physical Grade:
Suitable for people with moderate fitness. You can enjoy 1-2 hour hikes on uneven terrain and can walk moderately sloped hillsides.
See physical grade descriptions here
Still have questions?
Book your tour today!
Explore the Wonders of D'Urville Island: 6-Day Journey of Nature & History
From 5,890 New Zealand dollarsLoading availability...
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Explore the Wonders of D'Urville Island: 6-Day Journey of Nature & History
From 5,890 New Zealand dollarsLoading availability...
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Other important details
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There is no commercial accommodation on D’Urville Island. You will stay in two comfortable three-bedroom farm cottages set in a sheltered bay, with one shared bathroom per house (maximum four guests per house).
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Sole occupancy price For your own room in Havelock. The configuration of accomodation on D'Urville Island, means you have your own room within one of two, three bedroom cottages, but will have to share a bathroom with two or three others.
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Access to the island is by boat across French Pass. The barge is currently not operating, though this may change prior to departure.
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Itinerary is subject to weather. We'll adapt the itinerary to make the best of what nature serves up to us, but for your safety and comfort, some activities may be changed, shortened or cancelled.
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Travel insurance is recommended and your responsibility. Weather delays may require additional accommodation or meals at your own cost. Travel insurance is highly recommended to cover such circumstances
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Minimum numbers apply. The tour will be confirmed no later than 60 days prior to departure
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A $1,000 deposit is required to secure your place upon booking.
- Terms & conditions apply. Prices are in NZD and include GST. All tours are subject to our standard terms and conditions.
"Fabulous scenery and tantalizing family and social histories."
Jacky Renouf