09/05/2026
URGENT UPDATE - COOK STRAIT FERRY CAPACITY NOW SERIOUSLY RESTRICTED
This is an important update regarding Cook Strait ferry travel for the foreseeable future.
From 22 June through to 25 September, Interislander will be operating with just one vessel, creating critically reduced capacity across the Cook Strait network. Available sailings are expected to fill extremely quickly, with freight being prioritised and very limited space remaining for passenger and vehicle bookings.
The situation is now proving to be worse than originally anticipated.
Bookings for the peak summer period are already filling at a rapid pace across both Bluebridge and Interislander. Last summer, December, January, February, and March all sold out up to three months in advance, and current booking trends indicate the same situation is likely to happen again - potentially even earlier.
As we have all seen, weather disruptions and ongoing vessel availability issues can quickly impact remaining capacity, making last-minute bookings increasingly difficult or impossible.
If you are planning any inter-island travel over the coming months or during the 2026-2027 summer season, we strongly recommend securing your crossing immediately. Waiting is highly likely to result in missing out altogether.
Cook Strait Crossings can secure your sailing now, with the added flexibility to cancel at no cost should your plans change. Ferry sailing changes can also be made at no extra cost, subject to timetable availability and space.
As always, NO deposit or payment is required until 2 weeks prior to departure, so you can reserve your space now (right through to 31 March 2027) before sailings are fully booked.
