Wellington and Picton: Interislander Ferry

Connecting the North and South Islands of New Zealand, the Interislander Ferry offers a practical and picturesque journey between the bustling city of Wellington and the charming town of Picton. Traversing the breath-taking Cook Strait in just 3.5 hours, this reliable service allows travelers to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region while enjoying a comfortable onboard experience. With multiple daily crossings and flexible booking options, the Interislander Ferry provides an accessible and stress-free way to explore the diverse landscapes of New Zealand. But what else can this iconic service offer those seeking to embark on an unforgettable adventure across the Cook Strait?

Key Points

• The Interislander ferry operates three passenger ferries between Wellington and Picton, with a journey duration of approximately 3.5 hours across Cook Strait.
• Ticket prices start from $49.52 per person for a one-way trip, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.
• The ferry offers multiple viewing decks, food and drink options, and a Premium Lounge upgrade with complimentary refreshments for a comfortable experience.
• The ferry schedule features multiple daily crossings, supporting both day trips and longer adventures across the islands.
• Passengers can bring carry-on luggage and check in two items per person, with excess baggage potentially incurring additional fees.

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Ferry Services Overview

Interislander operates a fleet of three passenger ferries that provide regular crossings between Wellington and Picton, connecting the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

The journey across the Cook Strait takes approximately 3.5 hours and is renowned for its stunning views of the Wellington Harbour and the Marlborough Sounds. Annually, over 800,000 passengers experience this scenic route.

The ferry service operates seven days a week, all year round, ensuring regular crossings for both leisure and business travelers.

With multiple viewing decks, on-board amenities, and the option to upgrade to a premium lounge, the Interislander ferry journey offers a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers.

Booking and Pricing Details

Ferry tickets for the Wellington to Picton route start from $49.52 per person. Customers can conveniently reserve their travel now and pay later, allowing for flexible planning. Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Fare Type	One-Way	Round-Trip
Adult	$49.52	$99.04
Child (5-14 years)	$24.76	$49.52
Infant (under 5)	Free	Free
Senior (65+)	$44.57	$89.14
Family (2 adults, 2 children)	$124.30	$248.60

This range of fares caters to different traveler needs, ensuring an affordable and accessible journey across the Cook Strait.

Onboard Experience and Amenities

Passengers can look forward to a comfortable and entertaining journey, with multiple viewing decks, a bar, and a selection of food and drinks available for purchase.

An upgrade to the Premium Lounge includes complimentary refreshments, providing a more exclusive travel experience.

Families can opt for cabins or enjoy recent release movies during the crossing.

With access to various onboard amenities, travelers can make the most of the 3.5-hour journey, soaking in the stunning views of Wellington Harbour and the Marlborough Sounds.

Whether you’re seeking a scenic sightseeing experience or a more premium travel option, the Interislander ferry offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Ferry Schedule and Operations

To ensure regular crossings of the Cook Strait, Interislander operates three passenger ferries – Kaitaki, Aratere, and Kaiarahi – seven days a week, all year round.

The ferry schedule is designed to provide reliable and frequent service between Wellington and Picton, the two key cities connected by this scenic route. Passengers can count on multiple daily crossings, with departures from both ends of the journey.

This comprehensive schedule allows for flexibility in travel plans, whether it’s a day trip or a longer adventure. By maintaining a consistent operational cadence, Interislander ensures the Interislander journey remains a convenient and accessible option for travelers exploring the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

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Baggage Allowance and Restrictions

Carry-on baggage allowance is one small bag and one handbag/laptop bag.

Check-in baggage allowance is two items per person, with a maximum weight of 23 kilograms each.

Passengers should note that the voucher is valid for passengers only and doesn’t cover vehicle crossing fees. This ensures a smooth and efficient boarding process for all travelers.

Excess baggage can be stored in the ferry’s designated areas, but additional fees may apply.

Passengers are advised to plan their luggage carefully to avoid any unexpected charges or delays.

Scenic Route and Views

The Interislander ferry journey between Wellington and Picton is renowned for its stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

As the ferry traverses the Cook Strait, passengers are treated to breathtaking vistas of Wellington Harbour, the rugged Marlborough Sounds, and the serene waters in between.

The journey provides a unique perspective on New Zealand’s natural beauty, with towering cliffs, lush forests, and tranquil bays passing by as the ferry makes its way across the strait.

Whether it’s gazing out at the horizon from the outdoor decks or enjoying the views from the indoor seating areas, the Interislander ferry offers an unforgettable scenic experience for all who embark on this iconic journey.

Premium Lounge Upgrade

For those seeking a more comfortable and elevated journey, Interislander offers the Premium Lounge upgrade, which provides passengers with complimentary food and beverages throughout the crossing.

This premium experience allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic views of the Cook Strait in a private and exclusive setting.

The Premium Lounge features:

• Complimentary snacks, hot and cold drinks

• Comfortable seating and quiet atmosphere

• Private access to outdoor viewing decks

This upgrade is the perfect choice for those who want to make the most of their ferry journey, whether traveling for business or leisure.

With the Premium Lounge, passengers can indulge in a seamless and more luxurious crossing between the North and South Islands.

Additional Travel Information

Travelers planning their journey can make use of Interislander’s onboard amenities and services to enhance their experience. The ferry offers ample storage for carry-on and checked luggage, with a generous 23kg per item allowance. Passengers can also bring their vehicles aboard, though separate fees apply. To ensure a seamless crossing, Interislander recommends arriving at the terminal 30 minutes prior to departure.

Onboard Amenities	Description
Viewing Decks	Multiple outdoor observation areas to take in the stunning scenery
Bar and Dining	Enjoy refreshments, snacks, and hot meals throughout the journey
Entertainment	Recent-release movies and comfortable seating for families
Premium Lounge	Upgraded experience with complimentary food and drinks
Accessibility	Wheelchair-accessible areas and facilities available

Recap

The Interislander Ferry provides a scenic and reliable service between Wellington and Picton, with comfortable onboard amenities and multiple daily crossings.

Ticket prices are accessible, and passengers can enjoy stunning views of the Cook Strait, Wellington Harbour, and Marlborough Sounds throughout the journey.

With free cancellation options and a premium lounge upgrade, the Interislander Ferry offers a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: