InterIslander Ferry - Picton to Wellington

Picton , New Zealand

InterIslander Ferry - Picton to Wellington

Active

(243 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

For over 60 years, Interislander has been sharing the stunning scenery of Wellington Harbour and the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds with over 800,000 passengers every year.

The voyage between the North and South Islands of Aotearoa New Zealand has been described as one of the most beautiful ferry journeys in the world and is a ‘must do’ experience for everyone exploring our stunning country.

The three-hour journey gives plenty of time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the fresh, local food and beverages we pride ourselves in.

The spacious and comfortable Interislander ferries run 7 days a week, all year round.

Book your tickets now!

Note: Choose to travel with a vehicle or on foot

Available options

2:15pm + Premium Lounge

2:15pm departure from Picton with Premium Lounge included

6:30pm + Premium Lounge

6:30pm departure from Picton with Premium Lounge included

2.15pm Picton-Wellington

2.15pm departure

11am + Premium Lounge

11am departure from Picton with Premium Lounge included

11am departure

Ferry departing Picton at 11am arriving Wellington at 2:15pm

9.30am departure

9.30am departure from Picton

2:15pm departure

Ferry departing Picton at 2:15pm arriving Wellington at 5:45pm

6:30pm departure

6:30pm departure from Picton

2:15pm + Car 5.5m + Passenger

Passenger + vehicle

What's included

One way InterIslander ferry trip from Picton to Wellington

Access to viewing decks

2x 23kg baggage allowance

What you'll see

Interislander ferries connect the South & North Islands of New Zealand, cruising between Picton and Wellington through the stunning Marlborough Sounds.

Once onboard enjoy a meal, drink in our bar, stroll the decks, watch a movie or relax in our Premium Lounge.

Our two passenger ferries operate seven days a week, all year round, with a range of convenient sailing times.

This is a ‘must do’ experience for everyone exploring beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand.

Book your tickets now!

What's not included

Food and beverages (available to purchase on board)

Bicycles and sporting gear may incur a fee, payable at the Terminals

Kennels may be purchased at the terminal for travelling animals

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

51 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

192 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Apart from designated areas, smoking is not permitted inside the ship.

The InterIslander fleet has 2 vessels: The Kaitaki and Kaiārahi.

From Picton, some InterIslander ferry sailing's connect with the Coastal Pacific train service to Kaikoura and Christchurch.

The InterIslander ferry sailing timetable is subject to change, without notice.

Cafes and bar

Fast-food takeaway bar

Movie theater (on select ships)

Lounge areas

Observation deck

Children's play area and nursery

Please note, during off-peak sailing's, some facilities are only open for a limited time

Surcharge applies to additional services including extra luggage, large sporting equipment, traveling with pets. The option of carrying additional bicycles and sporting gear (for example, canoes or surfboards), is an additional cost per item. If you are traveling with dogs, kennels are provided at an extra cost, ensuring your pet's comfort and safety, and your peace of mind. There are a limited number of kennels available

The luggage allowance is two (2) items of baggage per person. Additional baggage items may be carried, subject to availability and on the payment of an additional charge. Larger baggage, including backpacks, must be checked in at the Picton terminal. Baggage can then be collected from the carousels at the port of arrival. InterIslander will not accept individual baggage items which exceed either 23 kilograms in weight, or 200 linear centimeters (height and length and width) in dimension. For safety reasons, there are no exceptions to the weight restriction. However, the restriction in dimension is relaxed for sporting equipment.

Infants aged 1 year and under travel free of charge.

Children aged 2 to 17 years inclusive qualify for the child rate.

Youths aged 17 years and under are not permitted to travel in Premium Lounge.

Children 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

Meeting/Redemption Point:
Interislander Ferry Terminal, Auckland Street, Picton 7281, New Zealand

Check in:
Check in at the terminal at least 60 minutes prior to departure / start time.

Prior to check-in
Pack a small bag for the journey.
• Carry on allowance is one small bag and one handbag or laptop bag
• All large items, including backpacks, must be checked in

Foot passenger check-in procedure
• Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure and go to the terminal building.
• Have your booking confirmation ready. Having this open on your phone will do.
• Go to the check-in counters and exchange your booking confirmation for boarding passes.
• You will be asked for a photo ID if you are over 18 years.
• Check-in large bags, this includes backpacks. Your baggage allowance is two bags weighing no more than 23 kg each.
• Additional baggage items may be carried, subject to availability and on the payment of an additional charge.
• Wait in departure lounge until boarding is announced then follow terminal staff instructions to gangway to board.

Check-in with vehicle:
• Follow the signs to Lagoon Road and the Interislander vehicle check-in area. Check in closes 60 minutes before departure.
• For your safety, you will not be able to leave this area after you check in. There are amenities available including toilets.

Please note:
• Interislander terminals and ships only accept Electronic Payments (no cash).
• Your checked-in baggage needs to be collected from the carousels at the port of arrival.
• InterIslander will not accept individual baggage items which exceed either 23 kilograms in weight, or 200 linear centimeters (height + length + width) in dimension. For safety reasons, there are no exceptions to the weight restriction. However, the restriction in dimension is relaxed for sporting equipment.

About Picton

Picton is a charming coastal town in New Zealand's South Island, known as the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. It offers a unique blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a network of ancient sunken river valleys and coastal bays, offering stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to multiple days Free to Moderate

Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum houses the world's second-oldest surviving merchant sailing ship, offering a glimpse into Picton's maritime history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering breathtaking views, coastal scenery, and diverse wildlife.

Adventure 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green-lipped Mussels

A New Zealand delicacy, these large, sweet mussels are often steamed or grilled and served with garlic and herbs.

Dinner Seafood, gluten-free options available

Sourdough Bread

Picton is known for its artisanal sourdough bread, made with local ingredients and traditional methods.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian, gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Kayaking Hiking Whale watching Wine tasting Beach walks Café hopping Visiting museums Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. However, it's also the busiest time with more tourists.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Picton is generally a safe destination, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of wildlife when hiking

Getting there

By air

Blenheim Airport • 30 km
Wellington Airport • 80 km

By bus

Picton Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Picton has a small local bus service that connects the town to nearby attractions and ferry terminals.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Picton Town Center Waikawa Bay

Day trips

Blenheim and the Marlborough Wine Region

30 km • Full day

Blenheim is the heart of the Marlborough wine region, offering world-class wineries, historic sites, and scenic landscapes.

Kaikoura

120 km • Full day

Kaikoura is known for its whale watching, dolphin encounters, and stunning coastal scenery.

Festivals

Marlborough Wine and Food Festival • February Picton Cruising Club Regatta • January

Pro tips

Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons
Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the Marlborough Sounds and surrounding areas
Pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable
Try local seafood and Marlborough wines
Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum for a glimpse into Picton's rich history