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 35 weekly sailings from Picton to Wellington.
Interislander provide 3 sailings daily, 24 sailings weekly. Bluebridge provide 3 sailings daily, 18 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 20:50. 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 $176.33.
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 $79.79 and $386.02 depending on the operator, season and whether you are travelling with a vehicle. The average price of a foot passenger is $79.79, with prices ranging from $53 and $158. The average price with a car is $200.17. 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 April 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 | $176 | |
| Average Daily Sailings | 5 | |
| Average Weekly Sailings | 35 | |
| Average Sailing Duration | 3 h 30 m | |
| Fastest Sailing Duration | 3 h 30 m | |
| First Ferry | 02:30 | |
| Last Ferry | 20:50 | |
| Distance | 47 Nautical Miles | |
* Prices subject to change, pricing is taken from last 30 days, last updated 1 April 2025.
The Picton Ferry port sits nestled in the charming town of Picton, offering a picturesque setting for travelers to begin or end their journey. With its close proximity to the city center, just a short 1.5 km away, visitors can easily explore the local shops, cafes, and galleries. If arriving by train, the Picton Train Station is conveniently situated only 1 km from the ferry port, providing seamless connectivity for passengers. For those utilizing bus services, the Picton Bus Station is also within walking distance, making onward travel a breeze. Picton itself is a vibrant coastal town with a rich maritime history, offering visitors a range of attractions to enjoy, from scenic walks along the harbor to wine tasting tours at nearby vineyards. Current events in the town may include local markets showcasing artisanal crafts and produce, as well as cultural festivals celebrating the region's heritage. Whether embarking on a new adventure or returning from a journey, Picton Ferry port provides a tranquil and convenient entry point to the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds region.
Situated near the vibrant waterfront of Wellington, the Wellington ferry port offers easy access to the city's many attractions. Just a short distance from the city center, this bustling port provides a convenient gateway to the picturesque harbor and its lively surroundings. Visitors can explore nearby landmarks such as Te Papa Museum and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade. The ferry port is well-connected to public transport, with bus stops and the central train station within a few kilometers, making it a convenient starting point for your Wellington adventure. Don't miss out on the local events and festivities happening in town, adding a touch of excitement to your travel experience.
