Picton to Wellington: Interislander Ferry Across Cook Strait
We boarded the Interislander ferry, the longest-running ferry service in New Zealand, which operates between the North Island city of Wellington and the South Island town of Picton. After returning our rental car in Picton, we boarded the ferry as walk-on passengers for one of the world's most scenic ferry crossings.
The Interislander Ferry Experience
The Interislander has been operating since 1962, making it New Zealand's longest-running ferry service. The modern ferries are equipped with comfortable lounges, cafes, cinemas, and outdoor viewing decks - perfect for enjoying the spectacular scenery.
After dropping off our rental car at the Picton terminal (car rental companies have drop-off locations right at the ferry port), we boarded as foot passengers. This is a popular option for travelers who plan to rent a different car on the North Island, avoiding the expensive fee for transporting a vehicle on the ferry.
Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Beauty
Within minutes, our boat bobbed in the waves as we were greeted by dolphins which came out of nowhere! Seeing these playful creatures swimming alongside the ferry was an unexpected delight. The Cook Strait is known for dolphin sightings, and we were lucky enough to spot them early in our crossing.
We relaxed and enjoyed the jaw-dropping views along one of the world's most scenic waterways. The 3.5-hour journey took us through:
- Queen Charlotte Sound - The ferry departs through this sheltered sound in the Marlborough Sounds
- Marlborough Sounds - A labyrinth of sea-drowned valleys with secluded bays and forested hills
- Cook Strait - The strait separating New Zealand's North and South Islands, named after Captain James Cook
- Wellington Harbour - Approaching the capital through its stunning natural harbor
Arriving in Wellington
Upon reaching the harbor, we disembarked at this North Island hub and immediately rented another car. Wellington, New Zealand's capital, sits at the southwestern tip of the North Island. The city is known for its strong winds (earning the nickname "Windy Wellington"), vibrant arts scene, and stunning harbor setting.
We checked in at The Setup on Dixon ↗ hostel, centrally located in Wellington's downtown area. After settling in, we headed for a historic trip on the Wellington Cable Car - one of the city's most iconic attractions.
Wellington Cable Car and Botanic Garden
The Wellington Cable Car is a historic funicular railway that's been running since 1902, climbing from Lambton Quay in the city center up to Kelburn and the Botanic Garden. The ride takes just 5 minutes but offers dramatic views as you ascend.
At the top, the Wellington Botanic Garden offered us spectacular views of the cityscape, Wellington Harbour, and the rolling hills surrounding the capital. The gardens cover 25 hectares and feature native New Zealand plants, formal gardens, and forest areas.
Our Wellington Arrival
The ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington is consistently rated as one of the world's most beautiful ferry journeys, and we completely understand why. The combination of the Marlborough Sounds' intricate waterways, the wildlife sightings, and the dramatic approach to Wellington Harbour made it a highlight of our New Zealand trip.
Have you taken the Interislander or Bluebridge ferry between Picton and Wellington? Did you see dolphins or other wildlife during your crossing? Did you travel as a walk-on passenger or transport a vehicle? What did you think of Wellington - worth spending time in or just a transit stop? Share your Cook Strait crossing experiences in the comments below!
Tips for the Picton-Wellington Ferry
- Two ferry companies: Interislander (since 1962) and Bluebridge. Interislander is larger with more facilities. Both are reliable. Book in advance, especially in summer.
- Journey time: 3.5 hours crossing Cook Strait. Multiple departures daily. Check in 30-45 minutes before departure for foot passengers, longer for vehicles.
- Walk-on passenger tickets are much cheaper than transporting a vehicle. Consider dropping your South Island rental in Picton and picking up a new North Island rental in Wellington.
- Head to the outdoor viewing decks for the best views and photos, especially when passing through the Marlborough Sounds. Bring layers - it can be windy!
- Cook Strait can be rough! It's one of the world's most treacherous stretches of water. If prone to seasickness, take medication before boarding. The crossing through the Sounds is calmer.
- Wildlife spotting: Dolphins are commonly seen, especially in summer. Occasionally seals and seabirds too. Watch from the outdoor decks for the best chance of sightings.
- Rental car drop-off in Picton: Companies have locations right at the ferry terminal. Drop off, walk to the ferry - super convenient for foot passengers.
- Onboard facilities: Cafes, restaurants, cinemas, lounges, and outdoor viewing areas. Food is available but can be pricey - consider bringing snacks.
- The ferry is considered one of the world's most scenic ferry crossings. Route goes through Queen Charlotte Sound, Marlborough Sounds, and across Cook Strait.
- Wellington Cable Car: A must-do! Historic funicular from Lambton Quay to Kelburn/Botanic Garden. 5-minute ride with great views. Tickets available at stations.
- Wellington is nicknamed 'Windy Wellington' for good reason! The city sits in a wind tunnel between Cook Strait and the hills. Bring a jacket even in summer.
Note:
Where to Stay in Wellington?
- budgetCentrally located hostel in downtown Wellington on Dixon Street. Walking distance to Cuba Street, waterfront, and the cable car. Good facilities and social atmosphere. Perfect budget base for exploring New Zealand's capital.
The Interislander ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington was one of the highlights of our New Zealand adventure. The journey through the Marlborough Sounds and across Cook Strait is rightfully considered one of the world's most scenic ferry rides. Being greeted by dolphins, enjoying the stunning coastal scenery, and arriving into Wellington Harbour made for an unforgettable travel experience. Don't just see this as a transfer - it's an attraction in itself!