Wellington to Picton Ferry
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Find and book ferry tickets from Wellington to Picton
Taking the ferry from Wellington to Picton means watching the hillside houses and the distinctive Beehive Parliament building of New Zealand's capital fade into the distance as you embark on a voyage across the Cook Strait. This ferry from Wellington to Picton is famously described as one of the most beautiful in the world, linking the North and South Islands over approximately 35 (65). The average crossing time is 3h 30m, taking you from the open swells of the Strait into the breathtaking, fjord-like calm of the Marlborough Sounds.
Planning your transition between islands is simple, as the route is serviced by two primary operators: Bluebridge, Interislander, together offering around 42. The first ferry departs Wellington at approximately 00:00, while the final sailing typically leaves at 20:30(+1).
Upon arrival, the Picton ferry docks in a charming seaside town that serves as the perfect introduction to the South Island — the gateway to the Marlborough wine region and the Queen Charlotte Track.
Wellington to Picton Ferry Schedule
Stay ahead of your travel plans with the latest timetable information. While frequencies can shift based on the season, the general schedule is as follows:
First Sailing: The first ferry typically departs Wellington at approximately 00:00.
Last Sailing: The final departure of the day usually sets sail at around 20:30(+1).
If no direct sailings are currently available for your chosen dates, please check our Alternative Routes section below to find the next best connection to your destination.
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Ticket Prices & Booking Tips
Fares for the Wellington to Picton ferry are dynamic. Booking in advance is the single most effective way to secure the lowest price.
Price Range: Recent averages show tickets priced between £30 and £999.
Typical Fare: Most travelers pay an average of £488.
Best Value: If possible, consider traveling during mid-week or off-peak hours and avoid last-minute bookings at the port.
Wellington to Picton Ferry Timetable
Ferries from Wellington to Picton
Wellington to Picton Ferry - FAQs
The crossing time is typically around 3h 30m. Depending on the operator you choose and the weather conditions, this may fluctuate slightly. For real-time durations on your travel date, use our live search tool.
Prices vary based on season, vehicle type, and booking lead time. Averages range from £30 to £999. Please note that traveling with a vehicle (car, motorcycle, or campervan) will incur additional costs compared to foot passenger fares.
Several operators run services, including Bluebridge, Interislander. Together, they offer up to 7 sailings every day, giving you maximum flexibility for your departure.
You can book your ferry quickly and securely via Openferry. Our platform compares live prices and schedules across all operators, allowing you to secure an instant e-ticket without the hassle of port queues.
Most ferries on the Wellington to Picton route welcome foot passengers. Availability can change by season, so we recommend confirming and booking your spot in advance.
In most cases, yes. Vehicle spaces are limited and often sell out during peak travel periods, so early reservation is highly recommended.
Some operators are pet-friendly. You may be required to keep your pet in your vehicle or a designated kennel area. Ensure you have a valid pet passport or any required health documentation ready for check-in.
Yes — Picton is the main ferry gateway to the South Island, so the Wellington to Picton ferry is the primary way to cross the Cook Strait by sea. So, it's often referred to as the "ferry from Wellington to the South Island."
