Cook Strait ferry

Cook Strait ferries

The Cook Strait separates the North Island and the South Island of New Zealand. A direct ferry service across the sea is the perfect connection, especially, if you travel with a car or don’t want to fly to a far away airport.

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Cook Strait Operators

  • Interislander
    • 20 Sailings Weekly 3 hr 10 min
    • Get price
  • Bluebridge
    • 4 Sailings Daily 3 hr 30 min
    • Get price

Cook Strait ferry services

Currently 2 ferry companies are offering sailings across the Cook Strait: Bluebridge (also called Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries) and Interislander.

The ferry connection runs on the route between Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, on the North Island and Picton, a city on the South Island.

Together the 2 operators run 7 ferries a day with crossing times of 3 hours 10 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes.

Cars on the Cook Strait ferry

The ferries across the Cook Strait are car ferries meaning you can take your car, motorcycle or motorhome with you on the ship. However, please be aware, that many rental car companies do not allow you to take their cars from one island to the other. Please check your car rental’s terms and conditions before you book a crossing with your vehicle.

Prices, timetables and easy online booking

With Direct Ferries you have everything in one place. On our website you will find prices, timetables, terminal addresses, customer reviews and much more. You can compare Bluebridge with Interislander and find our which best fits your travel plans and book tickets fast and for the best price online. Use our fare finder now and profit from discounts and special offers.