Wellington - Picton
Ferries to New Zealand
Wellington - Picton
Ferries to New Zealand
Ferries from Wellington to Picton are operated by 2 ferry companies, including Interislander & Bluebridge. The crossing typically takes around 3 hours 30 minutes. There are currently 40 weekly sailings on this route, with prices starting from as little as $28. Use our Deal Finder to compare prices and availability, and book your ferry to Picton today.
Wellington to Picton ferry prices typically range from $28 to $508. The average ferry price from Wellington to Picton is around $235. The cheapest fares usually start from $28. The average foot passenger ticket costs $101. The average price when traveling with a car is $305.
Prices may vary depending on passenger numbers, vehicle type, route, and sailing time. Please be aware that pricing data excludes service fees and is based on searches from the last 30 days. This was last updated July 26.
The cheapest tickets on the Wellington to Picton ferry cost approximately $28.26.
Direct Ferries makes it easy to compare ferry tickets and prices worldwide, so you can find the best deal for your journey. Please visit our Special Offers page to see current discounts on selected routes and operators. Booking early is typically the most reliable way to secure lower fares and better availability.
Yes, Direct Ferries offers a range of discounts throughout the year. Where available, senior discounts are applied automatically during the search process: simply select the relevant age range when entering passenger details.
Students and recent graduates can receive a 5% discount on ferry tickets. To claim this, register with our partner Student Beans and verify your student or graduate status. Once confirmed, you'll receive a discount code to use at checkout.
Resident discounts are available on selected routes in Spain and Italy. When applicable, choose the "Residents" option during booking and the discount will be applied automatically. Please note that proof of residence or a valid ID showing the correct address must be presented at check-in.
There are around 40 weekly sailings from Wellington to Picton.
Interislander provide 2 sailings daily, 15 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 from Wellington to Picton usually departs at around 02:00, with the last sailing leaving Wellington Port at approximately 20:30.
Due to the longer crossing time, ferries between Wellington and Picton are generally better suited to weekend breaks or longer stays. For ideas on the best things to do in Picton, please visit our blog.
The fastest ferry from Wellington to Picton is with Bluebridge in 3 hours 29 minutes.
The fastest ferries from Wellington to Picton usually cost around $235.15.
Yes, Interislander & Bluebridge allow cars on ferries from Wellington to Picton. Use our Deal Finder to view live prices for car ferries on this route.
Here are our top tips for traveling with a car:
Whether you can take a campervan or caravan on the ferry depends on the operator and vessel used for your chosen crossing. Enter your travel details into our search bar to see which operators and vehicle options are available on the Wellington to Picton ferry.
For more advice and travel inspiration when taking a car, campervan, or caravan, please visit our blog.
Yes, bicycles are permitted on ferries from Wellington to Picton with Interislander. While most operators allow bicycles onboard, we recommend checking individual policies in advance to avoid any complications upon arrival at the port.
Yes, foot passengers are welcome on ferries from Wellington to Picton with Interislander & Bluebridge.
First class is available on ferries from Wellington to Picton with Bluebridge and Interislander.
Yes, you can book cabins on ferries that sail from Wellington to Picton with Interislander & Bluebridge. The price of a cabin on the Wellington to Picton ferry ranges from $73.11 and $1,053.65, with an average price of $303.77. Please note that prices may vary depending on the type of cabin you book.
Whether an overnight ferry runs between Wellington and Picton depends on the operator and timetable. Enter your travel details in our search bar to check whether an overnight option is available, along with current timetables and alternative daytime crossings. Please be aware that overnight crossings can sometimes take a little longer than daytime sailings.
Pets are allowed on ferries from Wellington to Picton with Interislander & Bluebridge. The average price for traveling with a pet is $351.
Pricing is based on searches from the last 30 days, excluding service fees, and was last updated July 26.
When traveling with your pet on a ferry, you'll usually need:
Where your pet stays on the ferry depends on the operator. Some ferries require pets to remain in your vehicle for the duration of the crossing, while others provide dedicated areas such as pet-friendly cabins, onboard kennels or lounges.
Be sure to check the rules before you travel, as some operators have restrictions on the type or number of pets you can bring. If your route offers cabins, kennels or lounges, we also recommend booking in advance, as these spots tend to fill up fast.
Our Deal Finder shows you all the available options, so you can choose the ferry crossing that best suits you and your pet's travel needs.
Interislander:
Bluebridge:
If you're traveling with a guide dog or assistance dog, we recommend informing the ferry operator or our customer service team at the time of booking.
Please ensure you carry all required documentation, as you may be asked to present this during check-in or while onboard.
Even where standard pet travel is not permitted, different rules may apply to guide and assistance dogs. You can confirm the specific requirements for your sailing by reaching out to our customer service team.
The Wellington to Picton ferry is one of the most scenic crossings in the world, sailing through Cook Strait before threading through the Marlborough Sounds on the approach to Picton. As this is a daytime crossing for most sailings, overnight cabins aren't necessary on the majority of services, but it's still worth knowing what to expect onboard, especially if you're traveling with luggage, children or a vehicle.
Both operators offer comfortable indoor seating in comfortable passenger lounges. This is the standard option for the vast majority of travelers and is perfectly adequate for the crossing, with enough space to move around, visit the café, and enjoy the views from inside when the weather turns rough in Cook Strait.
Outdoor deck seating is available on both operators' vessels and is well worth using on this route, particularly during the final section of the journey through the Marlborough Sounds. The sheltered waterway winding between green hills and quiet coves is one of the highlights of traveling between the North and South Islands, and is best experienced from outside.
Both Interislander and Bluebridge offer upgraded seating options with extra comfort, more legroom, and a quieter atmosphere away from the main passenger areas. This is a nice option for a crossing of this length, particularly for business travelers or those who want a more relaxed journey between the two islands.
Bluebridge and Interislander have a café or self-service food area onboard, serving hot meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the crossing.
There are bar and lounge areas onboard both vessels, offering drinks and a relaxed space to sit and enjoy the journey. This is a pleasant way to settle in for the crossing, particularly on the longer Interislander vessels which have more onboard space and amenities.
Open deck areas are available on both operators and are worth visiting for the Marlborough Sounds section of the crossing. The scenery as the ferry winds through the Sounds toward Picton is spectacular, and stepping outside for this part of the journey is one of the great travel experiences in New Zealand.
Both Interislander and Bluebridge accommodate vehicles on the lower deck, making this the main route for driving between New Zealand's North and South Islands. You'll need to leave your vehicle for the crossing and head up to the passenger areas. It's worth arriving at Wellington's Interislander or Bluebridge terminal with plenty of time to spare, particularly during summer and holiday periods when vehicle demand is high.
Both operators have family-friendly spaces onboard, and the Interislander vessels in particular have enough room and facilities to keep children entertained for the duration of the crossing.
Most travelers on this route keep their luggage in their vehicles for the crossing. Foot passengers have access to luggage storage areas in the passenger saloons. Traveling as a foot passenger between Wellington and Picton is straightforward, with good onward transport connections from Picton for those continuing to Nelson, Blenheim, or Christchurch without a vehicle.
A direct ferry service operates between Wellington and Picton. While flights are also available between the North and South Islands, traveling by ferry remains one of the most efficient and scenic ways to journey between Wellington and Picton, offering a direct crossing across the Cook Strait and through the Marlborough Sounds.
Ferries operated by Interislander and Bluebridge provide excellent flexibility, allowing passengers to travel with vehicles, pets, and additional luggage. The crossing is also considered one of New Zealand’s most iconic travel experiences, combining practical transport with spectacular coastal scenery.
The recommended arrival time at Wellington ferry terminal depends on the operator you are traveling with, so passengers should check their booking confirmation in advance.
The terminals in Wellington are clearly signposted, though they are located slightly outside the central city area. Arriving in good time is important, particularly during busy travel periods and for those traveling with vehicles.
As a general guideline, Interislander passengers should check in at least 60 minutes before departure, while Bluebridge passengers must check in before the one-hour cut-off prior to sailing. Vehicle passengers are advised to arrive earlier to allow time for boarding procedures.
Parking options vary depending on the terminal used in Wellington. Short- and long-term parking is available nearby, though space directly at the ferry terminals is limited.
For Interislander sailings, there is no large public car park at the terminal itself, but nearby facilities such as stadium or city parking can be used. Bluebridge’s terminal is closer to the city center, with additional parking options available within walking distance.
During peak travel periods, availability may be limited, so planning ahead and arriving early is recommended.
Passengers seeking accommodation near the port of Wellington ahead of their journey are encouraged to consult our Accommodation page for a range of options and competitive rates. A variety of properties are available to suit different budgets and preferences.
Staying close to the terminal can make your departure more convenient, particularly for early or late sailings. Wellington city offers a wide range of hotels and apartments within a short drive or taxi ride from both ferry terminals.
We recommend booking well in advance to secure the best rates, particularly during peak travel seasons and holidays.
Operators on this route aim to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility wherever possible, although facilities vary by vessel. We recommend contacting your chosen operator directly for detailed guidance before travel.
Where available, vessels may offer step-free access, lifts or escalators, accessible cabins, and assistance during boarding. Passengers requiring assistance should notify the operator in advance so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Interislander:
Bluebridge:
Luggage allowances on the Wellington to Picton route vary by operator. It is always best to check in advance, as additional or oversized items may incur an extra fee. Passengers traveling with a vehicle can typically leave their belongings inside the vehicle.
| Operator | Included Luggage | Size Limit | Weight Limit | Notes / Extra Charges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interislander | 2 checked bags and 1 small carry-on | Max 200 cm total per bag (L+W+H) | Up to 23 kg per bag | Large luggage must be checked in; small bags can be taken onboard; excess or oversized items may incur fees |
| Bluebridge | Up to 2 checked bags | No strict dimensions (must be manageable) | Up to 30 kg per bag | Additional bags available for a fee; no luggage limits when traveling with a vehicle, as items remain in the car |
Ferries to Picton from Wellington arrive at Picton ferry terminal, located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds at the top of New Zealand’s South Island. The terminal is within walking distance of the town center, making it easy to access shops, cafés, and accommodation.
From the terminal, taxis, shuttle services, and rail connections are available for onward travel. Picton is also a key transport hub, with connections to Blenheim, Nelson, and other South Island destinations via State Highway 1.
The surrounding Marlborough region is well known for its wineries, coastal scenery, and outdoor activities, making Picton both a gateway and a destination in its own right.
Travel requirements vary by route, so it's important to confirm which documents you need before you travel. On most international routes, you will need a valid passport to travel from Wellington to Picton, and possibly a visa or national ID depending on your nationality and the destination's entry rules.
To avoid delays at check-in, see our Check-in, Travel Documents & Tickets guide and our blog post on traveling to Europe for useful tips.
Booking your Wellington to Picton ferry is very simple. Enter your departure and arrival ports along with your preferred travel date to view all available sailings and prices. You can also compare alternative routes and departure times to find the option that best suits your schedule and budget.
Look out for early-booking deals and special ticket types such as upgrades or flexi fares that allow changes or cancellations. To ensure a smooth booking process, always enter accurate passenger numbers and vehicle specifications.
The best time to book ferries from Wellington to Picton is as early as possible. Booking in advance often secures lower prices, along with a wider choice of departure times, seating, and cabin options. We recommend booking at least a few weeks ahead, particularly during peak holiday seasons. Prices can vary depending on demand and availability.
If no sailings from Wellington to Picton appear on your chosen date, this may be due to seasonal timetable changes, temporary schedule adjustments, or limited availability caused by high demand. We recommend checking alternative dates or nearby routes to find the most suitable option.
After completing your booking, you'll receive a confirmation email with your travel details. How your boarding pass is issued depends on the ferry operator you have booked with.
Some operators provide boarding passes at the time of booking, while others require check-in at the port terminal. Where available, online check-in can be completed through the Direct Ferries app.
Ticket desks are generally located near the terminal entrance. To prevent delays, we recommend arriving early to allow sufficient time for ticket collection and check-in.
At check-in you will need to present your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID, such as a passport or identity card. If travelling with a pet, relevant documentation like vaccination records, pet passport and insurance may also be required. Passengers using resident discounts must provide proof of eligibility.
| Season | From price |
|---|---|
| Autumn (Sep - Nov) | $44 |
| Winter (Dec - Feb) | $28 |
| Spring (Mar - May) | $45 |
| Summer (Jun - Aug) | $43 |
*Based on a one-way trip with one adult
| Ticket Type | From Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $28 |
| Car | $118 |
| Cabin | $73 |
More routes than anyone else.
Compare fares, times & routes in one place.
Change plans easily with flexi tickets.
Book e-tickets & manage trips in-app.
Live ship tracking & real-time updates.
Top-rated customer support when you need it.
| Wellington - Picton Ferry Route Prices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Foot Passenger | $101 | |
| Average Price with Car | $305 | |
| Average Price with Motorcycle | $158 | |
| Average Cabin Price | $304 | |
| Wellington - Picton Ferry Route Summary | |
|---|---|
| Origin | New Zealand |
| Destination | New Zealand |
| No. of Operators | 2 |
| Operators | Interislander & Bluebridge |
| Average Price | $235 |
| Average Pet Price | $351 |
| Average Daily Sailings | 6 |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 40 |
| Average Sailing Duration | 3 h 30 m |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 3 h 29 m |
| First Ferry | 02:00 |
| Last Ferry | 20:30 |
| Distance | 47 Nautical Miles |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 July 2026.
The Port of Wellington is New Zealand’s main ferry port on the North Island and the primary gateway for ferries from Wellington to the South Island. Located close to Wellington city centre, the port offers frequent ferry crossings across Cook Strait to Picton, making it an essential transport link between the North and South Islands.
Wellington Ferry Terminal serves both foot passengers and vehicles and is well equipped to handle high passenger volumes year-round. Ferries on the Wellington–Picton route are among the most scenic in the world, offering onboard facilities such as cafés, seating lounges and outdoor decks. Passengers are advised to arrive early to allow sufficient time for check-in, vehicle boarding and security procedures.
Address: Wellington Ferry Terminal, Aotea Quay, Pipitea, Wellington 6011, New Zealand
Wellington operates a single main passenger ferry terminal at Aotea Quay, used by all Cook Strait ferry services. Boarding areas are assigned by ferry operator and sailing time, so passengers should check their booking confirmation and follow on-site signage.
The Port of Picton is the main ferry port on New Zealand’s South Island and the arrival point for ferries to Picton from Wellington. Situated at the head of the Marlborough Sounds, the port is renowned for its stunning scenery and serves as a key transport hub linking the South Island with the North Island.
Picton Ferry Terminal handles both foot passengers and vehicles and is closely integrated with the town centre. Ferry services operate year-round, with multiple daily crossings on the Picton–Wellington route. Due to high demand during peak holiday periods, passengers are advised to arrive early to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Address: Picton Ferry Terminal, Auckland Street, Picton 7220, New Zealand
Picton operates a single main passenger ferry terminal that serves all ferry services to and from Wellington. Boarding gates are allocated by ferry operator and sailing time, so passengers should check terminal information screens on arrival.
Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, is a compact and vibrant city known for its creative culture, scenic harbour and excellent food scene. As the main ferry port linking the North and South Islands, Wellington offers frequent ferry connections across the Cook Strait to Picton, making it a key hub for New Zealand road trips.
Picton is a picturesque harbour town located at the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds on New Zealand’s South Island. Known for its stunning natural scenery and relaxed atmosphere, Picton is the arrival point for ferries crossing the Cook Strait from Wellington and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding region.
For more travel inspiration, please visit our blog to find all the best places to visit in New Zealand.
Driving in New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
Hobbiton Movie Set: The Complete Visitor's Guide
The Best Hikes in New Zealand: Complete Guide to Trails, Great Walks & Day Hikes
The Best New Zealand Road Trips: Ultimate North and South Driving Guide
The Complete Fiji Travel Guide
Which Island Is Better in New Zealand: North or South?
