Our journey across the Cook Strait was a fantastic experience from start to finish. The service is efficient, and the entire process was handled with care and professionalism by the team.nHighlights of the trip:nService: The staff were incredibly helpful and provided great service throughout the boarding process and the sailing itself.nDining: We were pleasantly surprised by the excellent cafe on board. The food quality was impressive and far better than typical travel fare.nValue: The rates were very affordable compared to other options, making it a great choice for both families and solo travelers.nOverall, it was a smooth and enjoyable experience.
We travelled with Bluebridge Cook Strait Ferries for a return crossing — Wellington to Picton and then Picton back to Wellington — and overall had a really smooth experience.nnWe took the 8:30pm sailing over and the 7:45am sailing back, and both trips were on time with no issues checking in or getting on and off the ferry. Sailing conditions were calm for us, and the views through the Sounds were great.nnIf you’re travelling with a vehicle, it’s worth allowing around 30 minutes after arrival time to disembark, as unloading can take a bit of time.nnA few areas for improvement: the bathrooms could benefit from a clean partway through the journey — understandably they get messy with so many passengers onboard, but a refresh would go a long way. The cafe queues can also be slow; having a separate line for drinks or snacks could help speed things up.nnOne main frustration was the seating in the food area, which was often taken up by people not eating — feet up on chairs or just hanging out — making it difficult for those wanting a proper sit-down meal, especially on busy morning or evening sailings. Restricting these tables to diners during peak times could really improve the experience.nnAside from those points, it was smooth sailing, well-organised, and we’d happily travel with Bluebridge again.
We have just travelled on Bluebridge in December 2025 and January 2026 with our family including 2 dogs, and paid for a cabin for the dogs for the trip. I cannot recommend this service highly enough. The room was comfortable, we had our own toilet and shower with complimentary dog bowls, tv with internet and a small outdoor area for the dogs to toilet and be out in the fresh air. When the boat was about to dock we were collected and escorted to our vehicle level away from all other non dog carrying passengers. So easy and we would recommend this for anyone travelling with dogs. Someone had to stay in the room at all times so great option for 2+ people, but if on your own just take enough food and water for the journey. Great job Bluebridge!
Great crew makes great sailing. Food nice, and the team did everything to make the time memorable and fun. Including a Spiderman activities for kids.
Bluebridge Ferry made our trip so much easier travelling in a campervan with our golden girl. We loved the Pawsport, the pet-friendly cabin, and being able to relax in the lounge during the crossing.
