Why the ferry is more than just a connection
The route between Wellington and Picton is more than just the most practical way to get from one island to the other. The Marlborough Sound, which the ferry crosses on its way into Picton, is one of New Zealand's most beautiful fiord arms: deep blue water, forested hillsides, small islands, sometimes dolphins alongside the bow. The three and a half hours fly by on this last stretch.
There's no bridge between the North and South Island, and that's a good thing. The ferry is part of the New Zealand experience. Once you've driven your campervan onto the ship in Wellington, you understand straight away that this isn't tedious logistics, it's travel.
Interislander or Bluebridge
There are two ferry operators on the Wellington-Picton route: Interislander, run by KiwiRail, and Bluebridge. Interislander is the better known one, with bigger ships and more departures per day. Bluebridge is a bit cheaper, also has well-equipped ships, and is a solid alternative.
Prices are similar for both. For a campervan including two passengers, the crossing costs roughly 200 to 350 NZD depending on season and how early you book. The earlier you book, the cheaper it gets.
Recommendation: book early and choose a departure time that gets you through the Marlborough Sound in daylight. The best light for the entrance to the Sound is in the afternoon to early evening.
Booking and what happens at the port
Book at interislander.co.nz or bluebridge.co.nz. Give the exact vehicle category: campervan 3 to 5 metres, 5 to 6 metres, over 6 metres. The wrong category can cause problems at check-in.
At the port in Wellington, show up 45 to 60 minutes before departure. There's a check-in building where your ticket gets checked, you're assigned a lane, and you wait for clearance to board. The ship is loaded from the rear, and the crew gives clear instructions.
Inside the ship there's a restaurant, a cafeteria, lounges, and a kids' play area. Your campervan stays locked on the car deck for the whole crossing. Grab anything important out of the vehicle beforehand: food, camera, rain gear.
Weather on the Cook Strait
The Cook Strait is considered one of the roughest stretches of water in the world. Most crossings go smoothly, but in strong wind or rough seas you can definitely feel it. If you're prone to seasickness, bring tablets and find a seat in the middle of the ship at main deck level.
Ferries can be cancelled or delayed due to weather. If your schedule is tight, plan a buffer night in Wellington or Picton. Both operators offer free rebooking onto the next sailing if a crossing is cancelled due to weather.
Wellington and Picton: what else is worth it
Wellington deserves more time than most travellers give it. As a departure point, the city has plenty to offer: Te Papa Museum, Cuba Street with good cafes, the Cable Car with its views, and the tightest, most lively inner city of any New Zealand town.
Picton, on the other side, is the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. A drive along the Queen Charlotte Drive is well worth it: 35 km of coastal road with views over the arms of the Sound. Stay the night in Blenheim and drive through the Marlborough vineyards the next morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How far in advance should I book the ferry?
- In peak season (December to February), at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead, ideally more. In the shoulder season, 2 to 3 weeks is enough. Last-minute is sometimes possible, but capacity for larger vehicles is limited.
- What happens if my campervan is bigger than what I booked?
- Your vehicle gets measured at check-in. The wrong category can mean an extra charge, or in the worst case, being turned away. Always give the exact dimensions of the vehicle you've booked.
- Can I stay on the car deck during the crossing?
- No. The car deck is locked during the crossing. After parking, you head straight to the passenger area.