The Interislander ferry links Wellington with Picton at the top of the South Island, crossing Cook Strait in about three and a half hours. For many travellers it is simply the way to reach the South Island, but it is also one of the best scenic journeys in the country: the ship leaves Wellington Harbour, crosses an open stretch of strait where the wind and swell can be dramatic, and then enters the sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds on the approach to Picton. The terminal is a short distance from the central hotels, so a crossing fits neatly into an itinerary that continues south to wine country, the Sounds, Nelson or Kaikoura.
What to do
Find a seat or a spot on deck once you have boarded, and watch the harbour fall away behind you. The Sounds section towards the end is the most beautiful, with forested hills and quiet inlets, so stay outside for it if the weather allows. The ship has food and drink on board, and there are lounges where you can stay warm. Keep an eye on the weather forecast, because a rough strait is common and some visitors are affected by seasickness.
Planning
The crossing is about three and a half hours each way. Weather can delay or cancel sailings, particularly in strong winds, so leave a buffer if you have an onward connection or a flight. Arrive at the terminal in good time for check-in, and read the ticket conditions for luggage and any extra services. In summer, popular sailings fill up, so book ahead. If you are hiring a car, check whether you can take it between islands, because many rental companies prefer you to pick up a new car on the other side.
Fitting it in
Treat the ferry as the start of a South Island leg, not as a day trip, unless you are happy to spend most of the day on the water. From Picton you can reach the Marlborough wine region and the Sounds, and with a car or bus you can continue to Nelson and beyond. If you are staying in the capital and want something shorter, the harbour cruise and Seal Coast Safari give a taste of the water without the strait crossing. Whichever you choose, pack a windproof jacket for the deck.
What to expect
The experience
A large passenger ferry crossing Cook Strait from Wellington to Picton, finishing in the Marlborough Sounds.
Best time
Pick a settled day if you can, and sit outside for the Sounds section near the end.
How long
The crossing takes about three and a half hours each way.
Tips
Bring a windproof jacket, check the weather and allow a buffer for onward plans.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers continuing to the South Island who want a scenic crossing.
- Families
- Children usually enjoy the ship, but the strait can be rough.
- Couples
- The Sounds approach is memorable on a clear day.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a night in Wellington before sailing and a stay in Picton or Marlborough.
- Time needed
- About three and a half hours each way.
Good questions
How long is the crossing?+
It takes about three and a half hours between Wellington and Picton.
Can the ferry be cancelled by weather?+
Yes. Strong winds and rough seas can delay or cancel sailings, so allow a buffer around flights and onward bookings.
Is the trip scenic?+
Yes, especially the final stretch through the Marlborough Sounds.
Where is the terminal?+
It is a short distance from central Wellington, close to the railway station area.
Should I book ahead?+
Yes in summer and school holidays, when popular sailings fill up.
