Interisland Ferries

Ride one of New Zealand's interisland ferries between the North Island and South Island for a ferry journey unlike any other! Whether you're travelling with a vehicle, or solely as a passenger, the ferry is a great alternative to flying.

One of the most picturesque ferry rides in the world, the trip takes just over three hours and operates year-round.

 

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New Zealand Ferry Transport

New Zealand's two main islands are divided by a famously rough stretch of water called the Cook Strait. There are two ways to cross the Cook Strait: by plane or by interisland ferry.

New Zealand's interisland ferry services offer an affordable, relaxing and breathtaking journey between the North Island and the South Island, taking in the spectacular Marlborough Sounds en route. The ferry journey in either direction takes approximately three hours and 15 minutes.

There are two interisland ferry companies operating in New Zealand: The Interislander and Bluebridge. Both travel between Wellington and Picton, offer comparable fares and travel several times each day. 
 

New Zealand Interisland Ferry Timetable:

Ferries Departing Wellington

Time

Frequency

Company
2.25am Daily Interislander
3.00am Mon-Sun Bluebridge
8.00am Daily Bluebridge
8.25am Daily Interislander
10.25am Daily (in peak season) Interislander
1.00pm Daily Bluebridge
2.05pm Daily Interislander
6.25pm Daily Interislander


Ferries Departing Picton

Time

Frequency

Company
2.00am Mon - Sat Bluebridge
6.25am Daily Interislander
8.00am Mon-Sun Bluebridge
10.05am Daily Interislander
1.10pm Daily Interislander
2.00pm Daily Bluebridge
2.25pm Daily (in peak season) Interislander
6.05pm Daily Interislander
7.00pm Daily Bluebridge
10.25pm Daily Interislander

* These times are a guide only. For up-to-date departure and arrival information contact the ferry company directly.


Booking your Interisland Ferry Tickets

Ferry ticket bookings can be made on both the Interislander and the Bluebridge websites, or by calling their customer service teams. You can also book your ferry tickets with some information centres, or at the ferry depots.

It is VITAL to book your ferry ticket well in advance if travelling during Christmas holidays and school holiday periods. Ferry tickets often sell out months ahead of these dates. 

 

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