Picton – Wellington
Ferries to New Zealand
Picton – Wellington
Ferries to New Zealand
The Picton to Wellington ferry route is provided by 2 operators and is available for booking all year round. The ferry crossing from Picton to Wellington takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes on ferries servicing this route. The ferry duration for the Picton to Wellington ferry can range between 3 hours 30 minutes and 3 hours 45 minutes depending on the operator that you decide to travel with.
There are around 38 weekly sailings from Picton to Wellington.
Interislander provide 3 sailings daily, 18 sailings weekly. Bluebridge provide 4 sailings daily, 25 sailings weekly. Please keep in mind that ferry timetables often increase during the high season.
The first ferry leaves Picton Port at approximately 02:30 and the last ferry leaves at approximately 21:30. Ferry schedules can vary by operator and season.
The fastest ferry from Picton to Wellington is with Interislander & Bluebridge in 3 hours 30 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Picton to Wellington usually cost around $210.65.
You can take an overnight ferry on the Picton to Wellington route. The first overnight ferry from Picton to Wellington departs at 02:30.
You can book cabins on ferries that sail from Picton to Wellington with Bluebridge.
Pets are allowed on ferries travelling from Picton to Wellington with Interislander & Bluebridge.
Yes, you can bring your car on the Picton to Wellington ferry with Interislander & Bluebridge.
Yes, you can travel as a foot passenger on the Picton Wellington ferry with Interislander & Bluebridge.
The price of a ferry from Picton to Wellington can vary between $84.57 and $462.59 depending on the operator, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle. The average price of a foot passenger is $89.49, with prices ranging from $53 and $158. The average price with a car is $247.68. Car prices can range from $141 and $358. Prices may vary for other vehicle types. All ferry prices can change from season to season. Please be aware that prices do not include booking fees. 1 October 2025
Find cheap ferry tickets using our deal finder. It is highly recommended that you book in advance to ensure yourself the best possible prices and availability on the Wellington ferry.
First class is available on ferries from Picton to Wellington with Interislander.
Unfortunately, you can't take a day trip from Picton to Wellington by ferry due to the long sailing duration. We recommend that you at least stay overnight in Wellington to make your trip worthwhile.
Enjoy a host of various amenities onboard your ferry from Picton to Wellington. Bluebridge offer an adults-only Pōhutukawa Lounge, where you can help yourself to all-inclusive food and drinks. There is also free WiFi available, as well as a movie lounge, which is free to access for all passengers, displaying the latest blockbuster movies.
The cheapest way to travel across the Cook Strait is by taking the ferry without a vehicle. Foot passengers on this route can travel for as little as $53.
The Cook Strait can be quite rough by ferry, depending on the weather and sea conditions. It is one of the windiest stretches of water in the world, as it lies between the North and South Islands of New Zealand, connecting the Tasman Sea to the Pacific Ocean. However, Bluebridge and Interislander both have large vessels designed to handle rough conditions.
The best way to travel from Picton to Wellington is by ferry. With 5 sailings per day, you are bound to find a suitable ferry crossing to suit your needs. However, there are alternative routes to explore if you require additional flexibility.
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| Picton - Wellington Ferry Route Summary | ||
|---|---|---|
| Departure Country | New Zealand | |
| Destination Country | New Zealand | |
| No. of Operators | 2 | |
| Operators | Interislander & Bluebridge | |
| Average Price | $211 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 5 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 38 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 3 h 30 m | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 3 h 30 m | |
| First Ferry | 02:30 | |
| Last Ferry | 21:30 | |
| Distance | 47 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 October 2025.
Picton, New Zealand, is a charming coastal town and the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds. Famous for its stunning harbor views, Picton is where many visitors begin their South Island adventure after taking the ferry from Wellington to Picton. The town offers easy access to scenic walking tracks, wildlife cruises, and the Marlborough wine region. With its picturesque marina, friendly cafés, and close proximity to popular ferry routes, Picton is one of the best places to visit for travelers exploring New Zealand by sea.
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a vibrant city known for its cultural attractions, waterfront dining, and as the departure point for the Interislander and Bluebridge ferries to Picton. Surrounded by hills and a stunning harbor, Wellington blends natural beauty with a buzzing arts and food scene. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Te Papa Museum, riding the historic Wellington Cable Car, or enjoying craft beer in Cuba Street, Wellington is one of New Zealand’s must-see destinations.
If you are looking for the best things to do in Wellington, start with the Wellington Cable Car for panoramic views, then explore the Botanic Gardens and the world-class Te Papa Museum. Wander through Cuba Street for boutique shopping and vibrant nightlife, or enjoy the city’s growing craft beer and café culture. Outdoor lovers will find plenty of hiking opportunities around Mount Victoria and Zealandia wildlife sanctuary. As New Zealand’s capital and a hub for the Wellington to Picton ferry connection, the city offers a perfect mix of culture, history, and adventure.
Picton port is conveniently located within walking distance of the town center and accommodation options, making it easy for travelers to continue their journey into the South Island. You can also reach Picton by road from Blenheim or Nelson, or by train on the scenic Coastal Pacific route. With its excellent transport links, getting to Picton port is simple and stress-free.
