This was the first time I have caught the ferry from Wellington to Picton and after some research, I decided to go with Bluebridge ferry’s over Interislander.
The whole check in/boarding process was excellent, as well as the food options, entertainment and cabins.
Who are Blueridge Cook Strait Ferries?
The Bluebridge ferry has been running passengers between the North and the South island since 2002. They have two ferries, the Straitsman and the Feronia. Both ferries have cafes, multiple seating areas, bathrooms, viewing decks and private cabins.
Their schedule has between 2-4 passenger sailings daily, depending on what season you travel.
They also offer student, senior and family discounts.
How much will it cost?
A one-way ticket with a vehicle will cost you around $200 NZD or if you are walking on prices start at $55NZD per adult. If you choose to book a cabin like I did, you are looking at paying and extra $30-$55 NZD.
You can book your ferry tickets here.
My Review
Overall, the whole check in process was quick and simple. Upon arrival to the terminal, simply check yourself in and your car at the gate – this is only if you have done the online check in process first, if you haven’t you will have to go inside to complete the process.
Afterwards you are directed to a lane to wait until you are called forward. The wait time for me was about 45mins, as my ferry was running behind. Purely due to the number of supplies which were being loaded on/off the ferry. You then park up your car, directed by the workers and make your way up to the passenger section. You cannot access your car after this, so make sure you take everything you need with you!
If you have booked a cabin, like I did – because apparently, I was feeling fancy when I booked my ticket. You can go check in straight away. The cabins are quite spacious, I got a queen bed cabin, but due to maintenance issues was downgraded to the bunk room. This wasn’t an issue because I didn’t end up sleeping for the whole trip.
The bunk rooms have 4 beds, a small desk, plenty of power outlets and a bathroom. It was big enough for me and provided the privacy I was looking for, to get some work done.
If you don’t book a cabin, you have plenty of areas to explore. There are heaps of comfortable places to sit, a dining area, free movie there and outdoor viewing decks. The trip can be windy and cold outside, so I recommend bringing a jacket!
The disembarking process was quick and easy. You will be called to go to your car, just remember what deck you parked on! From here you wait till you are called, and simply drive off.
