East by West Ferry – 2025 Timetables Prices Routes Guide
East by West Ferries has connected travellers across Wellington Harbour for more than three decades, offering one of New Zealand’s most scenic and sustainable waterway journeys. Operating primarily between the Wellington CBD waterfront and the seaside village of Days Bay, the service combines practical commuter links with experiences that showcase the harbour’s natural beauty.
The fleet includes modern catamarans capable of carrying up to 132 passengers, with the standout vessel being Ika Rere—an electric ferry launched in 2022 that holds the distinction of being the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. For visitors and locals alike, the crossing provides unobstructed views of the harbour, Matiu/Somes Island, and the surrounding hills that frame the capital.
This guide covers essential practical information including current timetables, pricing, route options, and tips for making the most of the journey.
What Routes and Services Does East by West Offer?
The core route runs between Queens Wharf on Wellington’s waterfront—conveniently positioned near Te Papa museum and the Railway Station—and Days Bay on the eastern shore of the harbour. This crossing takes approximately 25 minutes under normal conditions, though rough weather can extend the journey to 30 minutes.
East by West Ferries (Wellington Harbour)
Days Bay, Zealandia ecosanctuary, Matiu/Somes Island
Multiple daily sailings, seasonal variations apply
Scenic harbour trips, eco-tourism, coastal exploration
Key Insights
- The service operates up to seven daily trips per vessel, with up to three ferries in rotation during peak periods
- Bicycles and dogs are permitted on the upper deck of Days Bay services
- Matiu/Somes Island trips require advance booking through the East by West website
- SuperGold cardholders travel free during off-peak hours on weekdays and all day on weekends and public holidays
- Cashless payments only—EFTPOS and credit cards accepted onboard and at the ticket office
- The electric ferry Ika Rere offers 90-minute commentated scenic tours of the harbour
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1989 |
| Vessels | 3–4 modern catamarans |
| Passenger Capacity | Up to 132 passengers per vessel |
| Crossing Duration | 15–30 minutes depending on conditions |
| Payment | EFTPOS and credit card only |
| Booking Required | Not for standard Days Bay trips; yes for Matiu/Somes Island |
Timetables and Pricing for 2025–2026
Current timetables operate under two seasonal schedules, with services running from early morning through to the evening. The summer schedule, effective from 16 November 2025 until 5 April 2026, offers the most frequent sailings, while winter services maintain regular connections with slightly reduced frequency on weekends.
Weekday Departures from Queens Wharf (Summer 2025–2026)
Morning sailings commence at 6:10 AM, with subsequent departures at 6:30 AM and 7:15 AM. Midday services typically depart around 10:00 AM and noon, followed by afternoon sailings every two hours from 2:00 PM through to the final evening crossing at 5:40 PM. Return trips from Days Bay begin at 6:40 AM, with midday departures at 11:10 AM and 1:10 PM, continuing through to 7:35 PM.
Weekend and Holiday Services
Saturday and Sunday schedules feature fewer departures but maintain regular intervals throughout the day. Common weekend departure times from Queens Wharf include 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, and 10:30 AM, with additional sailings spaced throughout the afternoon.
The ticket office at the Meridian Building on Lady Elizabeth Lane closes ten minutes before departure. Arriving at least 30 minutes early ensures you can purchase tickets at the office rather than relying on onboard availability.
Fares (Valid from 1 July 2025)
| Ticket Type | One-Way | Return |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | $16 | $32 |
| Child (5–16 years) | $8 | $16 |
| 10-Trip Pass (Adult) | $107 | |
| 10-Trip Pass (Child) | $53.50 | |
SuperGold cardholders can travel free between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM on weekdays, after 6:30 PM on weekday evenings, and throughout weekends and public holidays. A physical ticket must be presented to qualify for free travel.
Since May 2025, cash is no longer accepted on East by West services. Passengers must use EFTPOS or credit cards for all transactions, whether purchasing at the ticket office or onboard.
The Fleet: Modern Vessels for Harbour Travel
East by West operates a fleet of modern catamarans designed for comfort and efficiency on Wellington’s sometimes choppy harbour waters. The vessels feature both indoor and outdoor seating areas, with onboard refreshments available on most services.
Ika Rere: A Milestone in Sustainable Maritime Travel
The standout addition to the fleet is Ika Rere, an electric-powered catamaran that entered service in 2022. At 19 metres in length with a carbon-fibre hull, Ika Rere carries 132 passengers plus three crew members. Its distinction as the first electric high-speed ferry in the Southern Hemisphere reflects growing interest in sustainable tourism options within New Zealand.
The ferry operates at a current service speed of approximately 15 knots, with proposed upgrades to bring vessels up to 20 knots. Ika Rere regularly conducts the 90-minute scenic harbour tours that depart throughout the day, offering commentary on landmarks and wildlife visible from the water.
Passengers requiring mobility aids should contact the operator on 04 499 1282 before travelling to ensure appropriate arrangements can be made for boarding and disembarking.
Connecting to Wellington’s Landmarks and Beyond
While Days Bay remains the primary destination for most passengers, the ferry network connects with several significant attractions and natural areas. Matiu/Somes Island—a predator-free scientific reserve managed by the Department of Conservation in the middle of the harbour—can be reached via dedicated services that require advance booking through the operator’s website.
Access to Zealandia Ecosanctuary
The ferry service provides an important link to Zealandia, the groundbreaking ecosanctuary located in the hills above Days Bay. While there is no direct ferry-to-zealandia connection mentioned in current schedules, passengers travelling to Days Bay can connect with ground transportation to reach the ecosanctuary. Zealandia is home to some of New Zealand’s most endangered native birds and reptiles, accessible through a network of tracks suitable for visitors of varying fitness levels.
Future Expansion Plans
Proposed developments include a loop service connecting Queens Wharf with Shelly Bay, Matiu/Somes Island, and Days Bay. If implemented, this would increase daily sailings to approximately 30 trips operating between 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM, with the cross-harbour crossing taking around 25 minutes at the target speed of 20 knots.
Service History and Milestones
East by West Ferries traces its origins to 1989, when the company began providing regular passenger services across Wellington Harbour. Over more than three decades, the operation has evolved from basic commuter transport into a multifaceted service combining daily travel, tourism experiences, and environmental education.
- 1989 — Company established, commencing regular harbour passenger services
- Early 2000s — Fleet modernisation begins, introducing purpose-built catamarans
- 2010s — Expansion of tourism-focused experiences, including scenic harbour tours
- 2022 — Launch of Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere’s first electric high-speed ferry
- 2025 — Transition to cashless payments across all services
- Future — Proposed loop service connecting Shelly Bay, Matiu/Somes Island, and Days Bay
Current Service Status and Operational Considerations
| Confirmed Information | Uncertain or Variable |
|---|---|
| Regular services operate between Queens Wharf and Days Bay | Exact timing of proposed loop service expansion |
| Matiu/Somes Island accessible via special bookings | Future frequency adjustments beyond current schedules |
| Ika Rere operates scenic 90-minute tours | Specific COVID-related restrictions or requirements |
| Services may be cancelled due to weather conditions | Parking availability at Days Bay terminal |
| SuperGold free travel applies during specified hours | Timeline for speed upgrades across the fleet |
Sailings can be cancelled or delayed when harbour conditions become hazardous. Passengers should check the official East by West website or contact the operator directly before travelling, particularly during winter months or when severe weather is forecast for the Wellington region.
Why Choose the Ferry Over Other Options?
Wellington’s public transport network, managed through Metlink, offers bus and train connections that serve many of the same areas accessible by ferry. However, the waterway crossing provides an experience unavailable through land-based alternatives—a scenic journey through the harbour with views that simply cannot be matched by road travel.
The integration with Metlink systems means ferry passengers can use standard public transport cards for multimodal journeys, combining harbour travel with bus connections at either end. This makes the ferry a practical option for commuters as well as visitors seeking to maximise their time in the capital.
For those interested in New Zealand’s conservation efforts, the connection to Matiu/Somes Island and the pathway to Zealandia ecosanctuary positions the ferry as part of a broader eco-tourism itinerary. The electric ferry Ika Rere itself represents a commitment to reducing environmental impact while maintaining reliable service.
Sources and Further Information
The fleet of modern catamarans operates up to seven daily trips, providing a reliable and scenic connection between Wellington’s CBD and the eastern harbour villages.
— WellingtonNZ, Official Visitor Guide
Official timetables, booking facilities, and current service updates are available through the East by West website. General enquiries can be directed to Metlink on 0800 801 700.
For broader transport planning and multimodal journey options, the Metlink water transport page provides integration information and connecting service details.
Summary
East by West Ferries offers a distinctive way to traverse Wellington Harbour, combining practical transport links with experiences that highlight the region’s natural and cultural attractions. The fleet—including the pioneering electric ferry Ika Rere—provides regular services to Days Bay and special trips to Matiu/Somes Island, while proposed expansions could see significantly increased frequency and route options in coming years. For visitors planning a trip around Labour Day 2025 NZ or any time throughout the year, the ferry presents an memorable alternative to road-based travel between the CBD and eastern harbour destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the ferry crossing from Wellington to Days Bay take?
The standard crossing takes approximately 25 minutes, though rough weather conditions may extend this to 30 minutes.
Do I need to book tickets in advance for East by West Ferries?
Advance booking is not required for standard Days Bay services for groups of fewer than ten people. Bookings are necessary for Matiu/Somes Island trips.
What payment methods are accepted on the ferries?
Since May 2025, only EFTPOS and credit card payments are accepted. Cash is no longer accepted on any East by West services.
Can I take my bicycle or dog on the ferry?
Bicycles and dogs are permitted on the upper deck of the Days Bay route. Passengers should ensure animals remain under control throughout the crossing.
Are there discounts available for seniors or frequent travellers?
SuperGold cardholders travel free on weekdays between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM, after 6:30 PM, and all day on weekends and public holidays. A physical ticket must be shown.
What happens if my sailing is cancelled due to weather?
Sailings may be cancelled when harbour conditions become unsafe. Check the official East by West website or contact the operator directly for service updates before travelling.
How do I access Zealandia ecosanctuary from the ferry?
The ferry arrives at Days Bay, where ground transportation connections are available to Zealandia ecosanctuary located in the hills above the village.
Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?
Passengers requiring mobility aids should contact the operator on 04 499 1282 before travelling to arrange appropriate boarding assistance.
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