Travel between Wellington and Picton, New Zealand

Timeoften offer specials. The only other major inter-island
The 92km takes about 3 hours by a normal inter-islandferry is the Bluebridge ferry (aka Straits Shipping).
ferry from either Wellington on the North Island orThey have slightly cheaper prices, but far less sailings.
Picton on the South Island. There are sometimes "fast"The Journey
ferries during the peak season, but these have speedThe trip can be a bit rough with the ships sometimes
restrictions on them for most of the journey, throughexperiencing 7 metre swells. The ships are very sturdy
the Marlborough Sounds. The fast ferry would takeand New Zealand safety standards are very high. If
around half an hour off the trip. You could also take athe conditions are deemed to be dangerous to
short plane trip from Nelson or Blenheim at around $90passengers or cause damage to ships, sailings will be
one way.cancelled. If you have a tendency to get travel sick it
Ferry prices.would be advisable to take your travel sick pills or use
There are many websites that sell Interisland ferrywhatever other techniques you use to prevent travel
tickets. You must book during peak season, betweensickness.
December and the end of February. Booking duringFerries between the North and South Islands are
the winter is not really needed and there are plenty ofcommon and catching one is easy. Check in ½
sailings all year round (up to 5 a day during peakan hour before sailing if you are travelling without a
season, if weather permits). The Interisland ferry costsvehicle, and 1 hour if you are travelling with a vehicle.
around $60 for a return pedestrian and around $185Take a look at both the Interislander and Bluebridge to
for a person and car return (prices go up forsee which company offers the best package for you.
campervans). Keep an eye out, as the Interislander line