Discover the Beauty of the Nelson Harbour by Ferry

Nelson is a stunning location, but have you seen all it has to offer? Nelson Harbour and estuary hold many surprises only appreciated from the water. Immerse yourself in nature, history and the beating heart of Nelson's economy with a boat cruise experience on the Nelson Ferry.

family boarding nelson boat cruise at sunset

Experience Our Nelson Haven

Nelson Haven is best experienced on the water. The connection between city and sea is our link to nature, history, commerce, and recreation.

Experience Nelson’s historic lighthouse, the natural wonder of the Boulder Bank, Haulashore Island, wildlife, history and local industry. Tailor your trip to suit; family picnics on the Island, weddings, work events, a romantic cruise at sunset and unique opportunities for photographers and artists.

Our Services

Nelson boat cruise sunset and habour ferry sightseeing
Harbour Cruise
Haulashore Island cruise at sunset onboard the Nelson Ferry service
Haulashore Island
The lighthouse ferry service on nelson boat cruise with Nelson Ferry guide
The Lighthouse
“Nelson habour boat cruise to Boulder Bank”
Boulder Bank

We offer a range of individually curated journeys, from our relaxing Nelson Harbour Cruises to exploring the natural wonder of the Boulder Bank. If you have a specific itinerary in mind, we can easily customise a route that combines our harbour tours. Just let us know where you want to go, and the Nelson Ferry will take you there effortlessly.

  • “I had a single afternoon to give overseas visitors an introduction to Nelson and chose a harbour cruise on the Nelson Ferry. With comprehensive explanations from skipper Robin, cruising the haven and marina, observing portside industries and activities, visiting the boulder bank and climbing our historic lighthouse provided a unique experience and insights to our region, all within a couple of hours. Highly recommended!”

    —Ian Jack (a satisfied customer)

ferry service skipper taking the habour ferry to haulashore island on a cruise at sunset

About us

From the early 1980’s, under three separate owners, our Nelson, New Zealand ferry service has been dedicated to showcasing the best of Nelson’s Haven. Our passion to grow the unique experience of Nelson on the water will grow on that foundation.

The Nelson Ferry is your go-to for a wide range of sightseeing adventures and occasions. Whether you're planning a community group outing, a family day, a school trip, a service group event or even a wedding, we cater to all needs. Our boat service also welcomes photographers, artists and anyone looking to capture or enjoy the beauty of Nelson. We even offer a taxi service across the harbour, making it easy to get from one place to another. We are here to serve Nelson however we can.

Join Us and Experience the Nelson Haven

Weather

The Nelson Ferry services are entirely dependent on weather conditions, especially wind strength.

Call 027 302 9385 for current weather. All trips booked will be confirmed within 24 hours of departure. Stay informed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey with our Nelson, New Zealand ferry service.