Wellington to Picton Ferry

Wellington Guide

The city of Wellington is New Zealand's capital city and is located on the south west tip of the North Island, between Cook Strait and the Rimutaka Range. It is the North Island's major population centre and is also the world's most southerly capital city. The city takes its name from Arthur Wellesley, the first Duke of Wellington and victor of the Battle of Waterloo. His title comes from the town of Wellington in the English county of Somerset. The city is a popular tourist destination, as visitors flock there to take in its natural splendour, with its picturesque harbour and green hills, populated with colonial villas. The city's business centre is located close to Lambton Harbour, part of Wellington Harbour, and lies along a geological fault which can clearly be seen along its western shoreline. Many of the city's suburbs are high above the city centre and popular attractions include the Museum of Wellington City & Sea, Wellington Zoo, and the Zealandia and Wellington Cable Car. 

Wellington is the North Island port for ferries to Picton on the South Island. Local ferries also connect Wellington city centre with Eastbourne, Seatoun and Petone.

Picton Guide

Picton is a seaside town on New Zealand's south island and sits at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound in the beautiful Marlborough Sound and is regarded as one of New Zealand's prettiest towns. The town is popular with visitors from across the world who go there to enjoy its wonderful coastline, it has around 20% of New Zealand's coastline at its door, and to enjoy the best climate in New Zealand. 

Being located on Marlborough Sound gives the town a relaxed atmosphere and is characterised by secluded bays and lovely clear waters. The view from the town's waterfront is perhaps one of the world's finest views and bears testament to the importance of the water and of boats to the town. Regular boat trips from Picton’s waterfront jetties take visitors to stunning locations throughout Queen Charlotte Sound. 

Inter-island ferries to and from Wellington arrive and depart from Picton via Marlborough Sound. Most of the sheltered part of the route is through Tory Channel, south of Arapawa Island. The township of Waikawa is a couple of minutes drive from Picton and is home to one of the largest marinas in New Zealand.

How to get from north island to south island in New Zealand?

You can get a ferry from north to south island in New Zealand. The north to south island ferry departs from Wellington and arrives in Picton. The Wellington to south island ferry is provided by 2 and runs all year round. With 33 weekly sailings, it's easy to get a ferry from north island to south island to suit you. 

Everything you need to know about Wellington to Picton ferry tickets

When is the best time to book Wellington to Picton ferries?  

We recommend to book your ferry from Wellington to Picton in advance to get it at the cheapest price. The Wellington to Picton ferry cost varies depending on the season you’re travelling in. Most Picton Wellington ferry prices are higher in the peak summer months between June to September. Ferries during these months can sell out so if you’re wanting to travel on a Wellington to Picton ferry in summer it’s always best to make you book in advance. Check out our special offers page for all the latest ferry discounts and to find the best ferry from Wellington to Picton to suit you.

Do you offer student discount on Wellington Picton ferry tickets?  

Yes, students can get a 5% discount on Wellington Picton ferry tickets all year round. Check out our special offers page for more discounts and to get the cheapest Wellington to Picton ferry booking.

Onboard the Wellington Picton ferry 

How long does it take to disembark the ferry from Wellington to Picton?

It all depends on the size of the ship but disembarking the ferry can take around 15-45 minutes.

Wellington to Picton ferry with luggage

If you're getting the Wellington to Picton ferry with luggage, then there are certain restrictions that may apply. The amount of luggage you can take on the Wellington to Picton ferry depends on the ferry company you are travelling with.

Bluebridge: each passenger can bring 2 bags weighing up to 30kg each, along with a small bag weighing up to 7kg

Interislander: 1 small bag and 2 items of luggage per person weighing up to 23kg each

What facilities are available on board ferries from Wellington to Picton?

There are a wide range of facilities available on board the Wellington to Picton ferry. These include cafes, restaurants, bars and gift shops. Bear in mind that each ship’s facilities will vary.

What accommodation and seating options are available?  

The accommodation and seating on the boat from Wellington to Picton differs depending on the ferry company and how long the journey is. Prices are also dependent on the company you travel with and the size of your cabin. 

Bluebridge: private cabins are available along with a variety of seating options including lounges and a quiet room

Interislander: lounges and private ensuite cabins are available on board

Is there reduced mobility access on the Wellington to Picton ferry?

Yes, the ferries from Wellington to Picton are suitable for people with reduced mobility. The exact facilities on board will depend on the ship you’re travelling on. It's best to inform the ferry company at the time of booking to see if they can accommodate any requests.

Bluebridge: Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility is available on board.

Interislander: Ferries are equipped for people with reduced mobility. There are lifts, ramps and handrails for wheelchair users. There are also accessible toilets on board.

Taking the ferry from Wellington to Picton 

How early do I need to arrive at Wellington port?  

If you're travelling from Wellington to Picton by ferry, we recommend arriving at Wellington port at least 1 hour before departure. However, if you are travelling with a vehicle, it’s best to arrive 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours before departure to allow time for parking. Wherever you’re travelling from, you should allow plenty of time to get to the port in case of traffic.

How and when will I get my Wellington to Picton ferry tickets?

Your Wellington to Picton ferry tickets will be sent by email. You will then need to check in with the ferry company before you travel and you may receive an additional boarding pass.

When do I need to check in?  

The latest check-in time for your Wellington Picton ferry crossing should be in your confirmation email.  

Bluebridge: at least 45 minutes before for foot passengers and 1 hour before if you're travelling with a vehicle

Interislander: check-in closes 60 minutes before departure 

Is there parking at Wellington port?  

There is limited short-term parking outside the terminal. however there are several parking options nearby

How to get to Wellington port 

The Bluebridge ferry terminal is located in the centre of Wellington, opposite Wellington train station. The Interislander terminal is located at Aotea Quay. 

By train: you can get a train to Wellington train station. The Bluebridge terminal is located across the road from the station. 

Shuttle bus: Interislander offers a complimentary shuttle bus to the terminal from the train station.

Useful information on your arrival to Picton

A complimentary shuttle bus connects the port with the Picton i-SITE information centre and the town centre. If you're interested in hiring a car, there are also several car rental offices at the terminal. Regular bus services are also available between Picton and various destinations on New Zealand's south island.

If you’re travelling by car, speed limits in New Zealand are as follows:  

Light vehicles on open roads: 100km/h or 
Light vehicles in urban areas: 50km/h or 31mph
Heavy vehicles: 90km/h or 55mph
Vehicles towing trailers: 90km/h or 55mph