East by West Ferries | Wellington Harbour Cruises & Island Ferry Transfers
- Electric Innovation: Sail aboard Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere's first fully electric, zero-emissions commercial passenger ferry.
- Predator-Free Sanctuary: Explore Mātiu/Somes Island, a rich biosecurity haven featuring native wildlife, rare tuatara, and historic sites.
- Scenic Coastal Connections: Effortlessly travel between Wellington CBD (Queens Wharf), Days Bay, and Mātiu/Somes Island.
- Versatile Experiences: Enjoy commentated harbour tours, seaside dining connections, and seamless e-bike transport options across the harbour.
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Product Info
Purchase Notice
_What To Wear_
Warm clothing is essential. Even in the summer, temperatures can drop significantly after sunset, so you should wear warm layers, a jacket, long pants, and closed footwear.
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 30 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Biosecurity Checks (Mātiu/Somes Island): Mātiu/Somes Island is a strictly protected predator-free sanctuary. Visitors must check all footwear, bags, pockets, and gear for dirt, seeds, insects, and pests before boarding.
Ferries run in most weather conditions, but sailings can be delayed or canceled due to extreme wind or heavy seas in Wellington Harbour. Always check service status updates prior to departure.
Smoking, vaping, and domestic pets (including dogs) are strictly prohibited on board and on Mātiu/Somes Island (certified service dogs excepted).
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 4 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–3 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. How do East by West Ferries support car-free exploration of Wellington Harbour?
East by West Ferries provide essential links for car-free travel, connecting Wellington CBD (Queens Wharf) with Days Bay and Mātiu/Somes Island. This allows visitors to easily access different parts of the harbour for seaside dining, exploring attractions, or simply enjoying the scenic coastal connections without needing a private vehicle. They also offer seamless e-bike transport options across the harbour.
2. What makes the Ika Rere ferry unique for exploring Wellington Harbour?
The Ika Rere is the Southern Hemisphere's first fully electric, zero-emissions commercial passenger ferry. This innovative design allows for an environmentally friendly journey across Wellington Harbour. Passengers can enjoy a smooth, quiet ride while experiencing scenic coastal views, making it a unique and sustainable way to explore.
3. What can visitors experience on a trip to Mātiu/Somes Island with East by West Ferries?
A trip to Mātiu/Somes Island offers exploration of a predator-free sanctuary. Visitors can discover native wildlife, including rare tuatara, and explore various historic sites. The island is a rich biosecurity haven, providing a unique opportunity to connect with New Zealand's natural heritage and enjoy scenic views of Wellington Harbour.
4. Which specific locations do East by West Ferries connect within Wellington Harbour?
East by West Ferries effortlessly connect key locations within Wellington Harbour. These include Wellington CBD (specifically Queens Wharf), Days Bay, and Mātiu/Somes Island. This network allows for convenient travel between the city center, a popular bayside destination, and a unique island sanctuary.
5. What kind of harbour cruise experiences does East by West Ferries offer?
East by West Ferries offer versatile harbour cruise experiences. These include commentated harbour tours, providing insights into the area. They also facilitate seaside dining connections, allowing passengers to enjoy meals at various harbour-side locations. The cruises offer scenic views of Wellington Harbour and its surroundings.
6. How can tickets for East by West Ferries' Wellington Harbour services be purchased?
Tickets for East by West Ferries' Wellington Harbour services can be booked through KKday. Using KKday offers a convenient and streamlined booking process, allowing you to secure your spot for scenic cruises or island transfers in advance and explore various options easily.
7. Where can I find the operating hours and ferry schedules for East by West Ferries?
The most up-to-date operating hours and detailed ferry schedules for East by West Ferries are typically available on their official website. It's recommended to check these schedules prior to your planned trip, especially for specific routes like transfers to Mātiu/Somes Island or Days Bay, as they may vary seasonally or for special events.
8. Are there special provisions for transporting bicycles or e-bikes on East by West Ferries?
Yes, East by West Ferries offer seamless e-bike transport options across Wellington Harbour. This provision allows passengers to bring their bicycles or e-bikes aboard, enhancing their ability to explore destinations like Days Bay and Mātiu/Somes Island independently upon arrival. It provides added flexibility for car-free exploration.
