Best Abel Tasman Day trip
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Our small group personalized day-trip is the best way to experience all the Abel Tasman National Park has to offer in comfort in one day. You get to meet other travelers and receive the personal attention of the skipper as we limit numbers to 5 couples or 11 passengers. Choose how energetic you want to be with plenty of activities on offer. Our cruise itinerary is flexible and our friendly, knowledgeable skippers are excellent at locating local wildlife such as New Zealand fur seals, Little Blue penguins and on occasion dolphins.We ensure you are able to learn about the history and ecology of the Abel Tasman while take in the stunning scenery. We cruise past Split Apple Rock as far as the Tonga Island Marine Reserve in the heart of the park where New Zealand fur seals bask in the sun. Then we find a sheltered bay with opportunities to kayak, go ashore for a bush walk, or just relax on board while we prepare a delicious platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Tonga Island Marine Reserve
We cruise as far as the reserve where travelers have the opportunity to hike, kayak and see NZ fur seals. The trip changes daily depending on tides and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Split Apple Rock
We cruise along the beautiful Abel Tasman coastline ensuring a close up view of this iconic rock while discussing the history and ecology of the area.
What‘s Included
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
A fruit bowl is kept fully stocked with fresh local produce for our guests to help themselves
Wine and Beer are offered with lunch
We provide a platter style lunch with fresh local ingredients to cater for a range of diets.
Restroom on board
Coffee and/or Tea
Use of kayaks, snorkels and flippers
Bus service payable
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Best Abel Tasman Day trip
Bus transfer added
Vehicle transfer: Bus transfer- the bus leaves Nelson and arrives at our departure point an hour early - check departure time from motel.
Duration: 1 hour: Bus leaves motels in Nelson at various times and picks up along the way. Takes approx. 1.5 hours for the bus transfer
Nelson to Kaiteriteri: Talk to driver about your departure point - either the cafe at Kaiteriteri or Stephens Bay to wait at the beach.
Shuttle bus
Pickup included
Reviews
238 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fantastic boat trip. Clunky transfer arrangements
Helen C,,Feb 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fantastic boat trip with great scenery. The boat was very comfortable and the crew were super friendly and knowledgeable. Two stops with opportunities to walk, kayak and swim - beautiful beaches. Saw dolphins. Slightly strange transfer arrangements. You get in 2 hours before the boat trip (As suggested I did the pretty walk from Kaiteriteri to kill a bit of time was still very early). Not really a problem on a sunny day. Other people on different tours did the same boat trip so you may be able to find same trip with better transfer arrangements.
Best Abel Tasman Trip
Inspire56961910450,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This trip was absolutely awesome, this trip is the best way to experience the Abel Tasman National Park, such a personal experience. The skipper was awesome and did an excellent job with his knowledge of the local history of the area. The food was so good, local wine and beer. 10 out of 10 experience. This trip was outstanding. Tania
Great day on the water
Wibo W,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00You really get value for money, the crew on board, this time Britt and Ella take really good care of you. Fun to be with them.
Fabulous!!
Sally B,,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Emma and Ella were great hosts - knowledgeable and helpful. We thoroughly enjoyed our trip - we cruised, swam, kayaked and walked as well as seeing seals dolphins and an interesting talk from Emma about the history of the area - topped off with a scrummy freshly prepared lunch with local produce. There were just 8 guests on the boat who were all good company too - highly recommended. Thank you
Great trip
Donna A,,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat trip was fab. The crew were great and nothing was too much trouble. It’s a great way of seeing the coast of Abel Tasman.
Best Day Ever! Would highly recommend!
Tracy N,,Feb 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Exploring the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman by boat, stopping to hike and kayak with this company created great memories that will last a lifetime. Captain Tim was so hospitable and knowledgable, he offered the perfect service.
A great day out with...
Amanda D,,Feb 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00A great day out with spectacular scenery, kayaking, swimming and walking opportunities. Small group was perfect with room for everyone. Food and drink provided were local and fresh. Staff were warm relaxed and welcoming.
Very nice experience
Lies G,,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is a very nice excursion that I recommend. The landscapes are beautiful. The guides are very kind and helpful. It is a small group experience, which allows for a nice friendly relationship with other participants.
Such a perfect day!
425ninal,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such an incredible day with Tim and Brett — those two are exceptional in every way. Could not recommend this outing more, such a perfect way to experience the essence of Abel Tasman!
Exceded our expectations. All the 5 star reviews agree!!
shrinkwrapped3,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Just the best from start to finish. Communication was easy and the transportation arrangements for the trip were made simple because these folks really know what they are doing. Once on the boat Tim and Ella’s attention to detail was much appreciated. There were several choices of activities that we could engage in. The lunch they provided was upscale, well planned and delicious. Lots of different drink choices including adult beverages!!!
From NZ$400.00
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Operated by Abel Tasman Charters - Day Tours