The Boathouse Society

Casual dining outside on a fine day is a treat on any occasion and unbeatable in calm sunny weather. The essence of Nelson.

With such a great location and inviting atmosphere, I was expecting a memorable dining experience. Unfortunately, the meal fell short.nnI ordered the pan-fried snapper and specifically asked the waitress about the portion size, confirming whether it was a whole snapper. I was told it would be served as two fillets, which sounded generous and helped me decide on the dish.nnWhen the meal arrived, I was surprised and disappointed to find that the serving was barely half a fillet — nowhere near what had been described. Given that I ordered the dish based on the waitress’s information, the portion size felt misleading and left me underwhelmed. For the price charged, the portion size simply didn’t match expectations, and I was left still feeling hungry after finishing the meal.nnMy wife’s roasted beetroot salad was also disappointing. It lacked flavour and creativity, coming across as rather bland and mediocre, and didn’t live up to expectations.nnIt’s a shame, because the location has real potential. But accuracy, honesty, and consistency are just as important as flavour, and on this occasion, the experience simply didn’t measure up.nnWhen I queried the portion size, the response from the manager felt dismissive, and her reaction came across as indifferent rather than addressing the concern.nnGood luck also trying to park nearby.

Had an absolutely fantastic experience at The Boathouse Society in Nelson.nnThe oysters were easily some of the best I’ve had in a long time, incredibly fresh, perfectly presented, and full of flavour.nnYou can really tell they care about the quality of their seafood.nnWhat stood out just as much as the food was the customer service. The staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming without being over the top.nnIt made the whole experience feel relaxed and enjoyable from the moment we arrived.nGreat atmosphere, great food, and great people running the place.nnIf you’re in Nelson and enjoy fresh seafood, the oysters here alone are worth the visit. Highly recommend.

I had 2 out of town visitors, and I took them to see The Wellington Sea Shanty Society on a Friday night, and we had the best time ever. Such a fabulous venue, with fun and friendly staff and excellent food and drinks. And a balcony deck with the best views in Nelson. And the Sea Shanty Society were brilliant- go and see them if you ever get the chance. Bravo The Boathouse, and thanks very much!!

Fabulous outdoor dining over the water. Fresh warm cheese scones with delicious coffee. Friendly staff, great service.nEntertainment provided by large container ship being guided into Harbour by tugs.