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What this solves
A Cook Strait ferry crossing is a real Aotearoa decision. The ferry is a 3-hour voyage between Wellington and Picton, with a scenic Marlborough Sounds approach. The alternative is a 12+ hour drive around via Taranaki and the Lewis Pass, plus 1,100 km of fuel and one night of accommodation.
Most online ferry calculators only show the headline ticket. Real cost depends on the vehicle category, cabin choice, number of passengers, peak season uplift, and whether a pet is in a vehicle deck or in a pet cabin. This tool stacks those line items and shows you the three realistic options side by side.
How to read the result
- Ferry (foot): just passengers and a cabin. No vehicle, no drive.
- Ferry with vehicle: passenger tickets + vehicle charges + optional cabin uplift. Pet caged in vehicle deck is a one-off fee.
- Drive around: Wellington to Picton by road is ~1,150 km and takes 12–14 hours. We add fuel, one night's accommodation, and food at standard NZ road-trip rates.
- The cheapest option is highlighted. Pet-friendly cabins are only on Bluebridge's Kaiarahi and Strait Feronia.
Limitations
- Reference prices are 2026 averages; current fares change with promotional pricing and fuel surcharges.
- Drive-around assumes continuous driving. A two-night drive is cheaper on fuel but adds accommodation and days.
- Does not include opportunity cost (you spend a half-day on the ferry vs two full days driving).
- Pet fees vary by operator; confirm at booking.
FAQ
Q: How long is the Cook Strait ferry?
A: 3 hours Picton to Wellington, or vice versa. Crossing time is 3 h 20 min on Bluebridge.
A: 3 hours Picton to Wellington, or vice versa. Crossing time is 3 h 20 min on Bluebridge.
Q: Can I take a campervan over 7m?
A: Yes, but at premium rates. The Bluebridge long-campervan band is 5.5–7m; over 7m is quoted on application.
A: Yes, but at premium rates. The Bluebridge long-campervan band is 5.5–7m; over 7m is quoted on application.
Q: Is the ferry worth it just for the views?
A: For many travellers, yes. The Marlborough Sounds entrance is one of the more scenic harbour entrances in the world.
A: For many travellers, yes. The Marlborough Sounds entrance is one of the more scenic harbour entrances in the world.
Sources
- Interislander official site — fare tables, cabin categories
- Bluebridge Cook Strait ferries — fare tables, pet-friendly cabin availability
- Drive Wellington → Picton via Google Maps — distance and time
- MBIE tourism fuel and accommodation reference rates 2026