InterIslander Ferry - Wellington to Picton

Wellington , New Zealand

InterIslander Ferry - Wellington to Picton

Active

(408 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 breath-taking 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!

Available options

4:00pm departure

Ferry departing Wellington at 4:00pm arriving Picton at 7:30pm

8:45am + Car 5.5m + Passenger

Passenger + vehicle

3.30pm departure

3.30pm departure from Wellington

1pm + Premium Lounge

1pm departure from Wellington with Premium Lounge included

8:45am + Premium Lounge

8:45am departure from Wellington with Premium Lounge

1pm departure

1pm departure from Wellington

8:45am departure

Ferry departing Wellington at 8.45am arriving Picton at 12.15pm

4:00pm + Premium Lounge

4:00pm departure from Wellington with Premium Lounge included

What's included

One way InterIslander ferry trip from Wellington to Picton

Access to viewing decks

2x 23kg baggage allowance

Free shuttle from Wellington Railway Station (Platform 10) 75 mins before sailing departs

What you'll see

Interislander ferries connect the North & South Islands of New Zealand, cruising between Wellington and Picton 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!

Note: Choose to travel with a vehicle or on foot.

What's not included

Food and drinks (can be purchased on board)

Kennels may be purchased at the terminal for travelling animals

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

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

117 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.8

291 reviews

5★

141

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.

Check in at the terminal at least 60 minutes prior to departure time

Cafes and a food court

Fast-food takeaway bar

Movie theater (on selected ships)

Lounge and tavern bar

Observation deck

Children's play area and nursery

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 Wellington 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 the Premium Lounge.

Children 15 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting point

Interislander Ferry Terminal - 1 Aotea Quay, Pipitea, Wellington

Important notes

Meeting/Redemption Point:
Wellington, Wellington Ferry Terminal, 1 Aotea Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, 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 pink signs and road markings directly to the 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, an outlet with vending machines for hot and cold drinks and a selection of snacks, a pet exercise area and a shelter for passengers on motorcycles.

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 Wellington

Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its arts scene, coffee culture, and stunning natural surroundings. Nestled between rolling hills and the harbor, it offers a unique blend of urban life and outdoor adventures.

Top Attractions

Te Papa Museum

Te Papa is New Zealand's national museum, showcasing the country's art, history, and natural environment.

Museum 2-3 hours Free entry, some exhibits may have fees

Wellington Botanic Garden

A beautiful garden with a variety of plant collections, walking trails, and scenic views of the city.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Mount Victoria Lookout

A scenic lookout offering panoramic views of Wellington and the surrounding coastline.

Nature 1 hour Free

Weta Workshop

A special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.

Cultural 1-2 hours NZD 30-50

Wellington Cable Car

A historic cable car offering scenic views of the city and harbor.

Historical 30 minutes NZD 5-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hangi

A traditional Māori method of cooking food in an earth oven. The food is wrapped in leaves and cooked underground for several hours.

Dinner Contains meat, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Pavlova

A meringue-based dessert with a crisp crust and soft, light inside, usually topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

Dessert Contains eggs and dairy, vegan options available.

Fish and Chips

A classic New Zealand dish featuring fresh fish, usually snapper or tarakihi, coated in batter and deep-fried, served with chips (fries).

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and gluten, vegetarian and vegan options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Mountain biking Spa treatments Beach lounging Picnicking Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Māori, New Zealand Sign Language
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

Wellington is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of common safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being cautious in crowded areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Wellington Airport • 6 km from city center

By train

Wellington Railway Station

By bus

Wellington Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Metlink is the main public transport system in Wellington, offering a network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

CBD (Central Business District) Te Aro Miramar Karangahape Road (K' Road)

Day trips

Red Rocks

30 km from Wellington • Half day

A scenic coastal area known for its rugged cliffs, sea lions, and wildlife.

Matiu/Somes Island

20 km from Wellington • Half day

A small island in Wellington Harbour with a rich history and scenic views.

Kapiti Coast

60 km from Wellington • Full day

A scenic coastal area known for its beautiful beaches, wildlife, and hiking trails.

Festivals

Wellington Cup Week • Late February to early March Wellington on a Plate • August Wellington Jazz Festival • Early October

Pro tips

Visit Te Papa Museum, New Zealand's national museum, for a comprehensive overview of the country's art, history, and natural environment.
Explore the vibrant and eclectic Cuba Street, known for its boutique shops, cafes, and street art.
Take a ride on the historic Wellington Cable Car for scenic views of the city and harbor.
Visit the Weta Workshop for a behind-the-scenes look at the special effects workshop famous for its work on films like The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit.
Enjoy Wellington's thriving coffee culture by visiting one of the numerous specialty coffee shops and roasteries.