Day Cruises
Our scenic Vista Cruise is a great way to experience the stunning golden inlets of the Abel Tasman coast, without the need to go ashore.
- Best For: Great views of the Abel Tasman Coast
- Walking Time: Optional - no need to go ashore
- Cost: From $45 - $75
The Vista Cruise departs every day from Kaiteriteri, year-round*.
Relax with the best views from comfortable seats around tables on upper and lower decks as we follow the contours of the spectacular granite coast, pausing at sheltered beaches and inlets along the way. We cruise past the Tonga Island seal colony where cheeky seals and sea birds play hide-and-seek on the rocky island. There are many photo opportunities as we journey through aquamarine waters lapping golden sand beaches, sculpted headlands and islands framed by lush native forest. Enjoy a drink, snacks or a light meal from the cafe/bar on board.
Click on the TIMETABLE tab above for our seasonal schedules.
Kids cruise free on all afternoon departures when accompanied by a full fare adult.
Fares valid to 19 October 2013:
Cruise all the way to Totaranui and return for only $75 per adult, $37.50 per child (5-14 yrs), under 5 free.
On the 4 pm departure, cruise to Bark Bay and return for only $45 per adult, $22.50 per child (5-14 yrs), under 5 free.
For a more active day trip in Abel Tasman National Park:
Disembark for a full range of walking or guided sea kayaking options. Click the links below for all options:
Abel Tasman Day Cruise and Walk Options
Sea Kayaking Single-Day and Half-Day Trips
During our Summer months
Three Vista Cruise departures from Kaiteriteri every day (20 October to 18 April) allow you to choose from 2 to 9 hours in New Zealand's finest coastal National Park.
- Afternoon sailings allow time to sleep in or explore other delights in the Nelson region.
- Morning sailings leave time for other activities or onward travel.
- For a full day in the Park, combine a scenic cruise with a beach stop. Relax in the shade of the native forest, sunbathe, swim or take a walk. We can recommend the best option for you.
- Experience the length of the spectacular coast, all the way to Totaranui and return, including pausing to view the antics at the Seal Colony on Tonga Island.
- On a really tight schedule, you can still enjoy the spectacular granite coast with a pre-dinner cruise to Bark Bay and return.
Low Season (19 April to 19 October):
*Please note: During our low season (May to October) the Vista Cruise vessel undergoes scheduled maintenance work, so alternate vessels could be operating some services. Please check when booking.
One departure every day makes the most of the shorter daylight hours, allowing time for our full range of walking options or stop at an idyllic, sheltered cove where the Vista Cruise takes a break and you can enjoy a barbecue if booked the day before. See our Barbecue Cruise Option.
Our scenic cruises feature:
- Front loading ramp for easy, safe, comfortable beach transfers
- Comfortable seating with chairs around tables on upper and lower viewing decks.
- With its shallow draft, our catamaran hugs the shore, travelling in close to idyllic, golden beaches and making the most of the viewing opportunities offered by the crystal clear shallows
- Your skipper provides interpretative commentary throughout your cruise to introduce you to the natural highlights and fascinating history of the area
- You can choose, sun and fresh air on the top deck, or relax on the sheltered lower deck
- The onboard licensed cafe, serves a seasonal menu of tasty light meals and snacks to accompany your selection of hot or cold beverages
How to get here
Click here for detailed driving directions and maps (opens in new window)
Other Scenic Cruises Options
We operate these options:
High season (20 October to 18 April):
Operating every day including public holidays. Christmas day there is no 4.00 pm depature.
With 3 departures every day you can choose to spend the full day, or just a morning or afternoon in the Park.
| Depart 9.30 am, cruise all the way to Totaranui and return 12.55 pm. |
| Depart 1.00 pm, cruise all the way to Totaranui and return 4.10 pm. |
| Depart 4.00 pm, cruise to Bark Bay and return 5.50 pm |
Kids cruise free on all afternoon departures when accompanied by a full fare adult.
Low Season (19 April to 19 October):
One departure every day makes the most of the shorter daylight hours, allowing time for our full range of walking options or relax at an idyllic beach where the Vista takes a break.
| Departs 9.30 am, returns 4.10 pm |
*Please note: During the low season, our Vista Cruise vessel undergoes scheduled maintenance work, so alternate vessels could be operating some services. Please check when booking.
Click here to view detailed Vista Cruise Timetables including times for each beach stop along the Abel Tasman coastline.
Free night's luxury accommodation in Nelson if you book a 3 or 5 day break with us for New Zealand's Spring season 2013
- 27 reviews of Wilsons Abel Tasman National Park in Abel Tasman National Park
