Following our epic journey around the south island of New Zealand, discovering uniquely beautiful towns, high-rising mountains and stunning hidden beaches, I was excited to be boarding the Interislander ferry from Picton and making our way over the Cook Strait, with our campervan, to Wellington on the north island.
I felt a similar feeling of anticipation I felt during each of the chapters of my travelling journey. At each airport, the overriding feeling is one of expectation and excitement of starting a new aspect of our adventure, and waiting at the ferry terminal was no different.
The cars, lorries, campervans and other vehicles lined up in neat rows, awaiting the signal to drive on board. We were based in amongst campervans, lots of them, which really highlighted how many people were making the same journey as us, creating priceless memories along the way.
I knew the 92 kilometre journey would take just over three hours, and we left at 1.15pm, exactly as scheduled. The ferry had a number of different levels and was equipped with various facilities to make the journey as comfortable and entertaining as possible.
Not that much entertainment was really needed with the views that we were treated to along the stretch of ocean named after Captain Cook, who discovered New Zealand in the 1700’s. The Marlborough Sounds area, in which Picton sits, covers 20% of the New Zealand coastline, and is just stunning. The sun shone faultlessly on the sea and highlighted the surrounding hills, mountains and greenery on the mainland and the little islands which sit offshore.
Picton is home to a beautiful little harbour, and is a wonderfully welcoming tourist destination, with many shops and cafes, alongside pleasant places to stay. It is the perfect location to either arrive at from the north island, or say goodbye to as you leave the south island and head in the other direction.
The ferry provides some wonderful refreshment options, including a large bar, serving a variety of alcoholic and soft drinks, alongside tea and coffee, and a selection of snacks. For a more substantial meal, the cafe areas serve hot food options such as fish and chips and lasagne, alongside sushi and sandwiches, biscuits and fruit. There really is something for everyone.
You are also free to travel at various times, with Interislander running trips as many as 11 times in one day during the summer months. You’re able 
to take your vehicle on board so you can continue your journey once the boat reaches its destination.
Upon our arrival in Wellington, we were greeted with views of another harbour with a very different personality to the one in Picton. This is a city, the capital city, and its impressive vast buildings and stadiums were instantly visable. It was great to leave one beautiful, peaceful area of New Zealand and head over to the contrasting bright and buzzing capital city.
Travelling on Interislander was another unique aspect of my New Zealand experience as a whole. It was special to board the unique ferry which connects the two islands which make up this stunning country. As New Zealand so often promises, we were treated to breathtaking views along the way alongside some fantastic hospitality.
Visit the Interislander website today to book your unique ferry trip!
