Our sailing route

From the dynamic, hilly cityscape of Wellington Harbour out through the rugged rocks and steep cliffs above the Wellington Heads – this is a journey of spectacular contrasts.

On a clear day you can see the outline of the South Island as you depart Wellington. As you sail the short stretch of open water between Wellington Heads and Tory Channel, look out for dolphins, whales and other wildlife that often keep our ferries company.

The route through Tory Channel in the Marlborough Sounds looks good from every angle. Rolling hills, lushly covered with native New Zealand bush to the water’s edge, are dotted with the occasional remote holiday home (known in the South Island as a ‘crib’ and in the North as a ‘bach’), with water access only.

As you cruise Queen Charlotte Sound towards the pretty town of Picton, you'll experience an area world-famous for its beautiful beaches, bush walks and great climate.

Route map of the Bluebridge Cook Strait ferry