Nelson, New Zealand, is a paradise for anyone who loves the sea. Its location on the South Island offers easy access to spectacular coastlines, golden beaches, and wildlife-rich waters. Whether you’re after a relaxing cruise, an active day on the water, or a combination of both, Nelson’s boat tours won’t disappoint. For example, the Abel Tasman: Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour Combo is a favorite, blending a scenic cruise with time on the trails, all amid stunning surroundings. If wildlife spotting is your thing, you’ll love the Abel Tasman National Full Park Scenic Cruise, which offers a relaxed way to see seals and sea birds without the hassle of carrying gear. And for those wanting a full immersion, the Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour combines sea, land, and air in one day, perfect for adventure lovers.
In this guide, we’ll explore six of the top cruises and boat tours in Nelson New Zealand, comparing what’s included, what makes each special, and who they suit best. From half-day scenic cruises to full-day adventure packages, there’s something here for every traveler.
Quick Overview
Nelson offers a diverse lineup of boat tours, including scenic cruises through Abel Tasman National Park, full-day adventures combining cruises with hikes or flights, and specialized experiences like sailing with lunch or kayaking. Each trip is designed to immerse you in the region’s natural beauty and wildlife, with options suited for different interests and energy levels. To help you decide, check out the detailed descriptions below, which include insights into the highlights, reviews, and practical tips.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these top boat tours.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Abel Tasman: Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour Combo
- 2. Abel Tasman National Full Park Scenic Cruise
- 3. Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch
- 4. Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour
- 5. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise, Kayak, & Hike Tour
- 6. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise and Hike Full-Day Tour
- How to Choose Your Perfect Nelson Boat Tour
- Final thoughts
1. Abel Tasman: Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour Combo
At number one on our list, the Abel Tasman: Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour Combo offers a full-day experience that balances scenic sailing, wildlife viewing, and bushwalking. This tour is perfect if you want a taste of everything the park has to offer. The trip includes a cruise along the coast to spot seals and the famous Adele Island fur seal colony, plus time on land to explore the golden beaches and tranquil coves by foot. You’ll learn about the area’s myths and legends, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.
What makes this tour stand out is its versatility — you get to see the most iconic sights while also enjoying a relaxing walk in lush bush. The Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle has a solid reputation, with a 4.6-star rating based on 653 reviews, indicating high customer satisfaction. Travelers praise the knowledgeable crew and the chance to see wildlife like seals and sea birds up close. The combination of a cruise and walk makes it a great choice for active travelers who want variety without rushing.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a well-rounded day in Abel Tasman, ideal for those who want a blend of sightseeing, wildlife, and gentle exercise. It’s particularly good for families or couples looking for a flexible, engaging way to explore.
2. Abel Tasman National Full Park Scenic Cruise
For a more laid-back experience, the Abel Tasman National Full Park Scenic Cruise is a 3-hour journey that transports you along the coastline from Kaiteriteri Beach to Totaranui. This cruise is all about soaking in the scenery without the fuss of beach stops or hikes. You’ll glide past landmark features such as Split Apple Rock and Tonga Quarry, with expert commentary providing insight into the park’s geology and wildlife.
With a 4.4-star rating from 818 reviews, this cruise is appreciated for its comfort and informative narration. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a relaxed ride rather than an active day, especially if you want to maximize scenic views in a short time frame. The focus here is on enjoying the spectacular coastline, secluded bays, and natural features like sea caves and rock formations. Wildlife sightings include NZ fur seals, making for some memorable moments.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers a peaceful way to experience Abel Tasman’s beauty in a few hours, perfect for those with limited time or who prefer a gentle, scenic ride over physical activity.
3. Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch
Number three is the Abel Tasman National Park: Day Sailing Adventure with Lunch, which is perfect if you want to combine sailing with a delicious meal. This 6-hour trip begins with a scenic catamaran cruise from Kaiteriteri, passing Split Apple Rock and other coastline highlights. Once anchored, you’ll enjoy a lunch on Anchorage Beach, eating while listening to the waves.
What makes this tour special is the combination of active sailing and relaxation on the beach, plus the opportunity to spot fur seals and seabirds along the way. The boat is comfortable, and the itinerary includes free time to swim or stroll on the sands, making it suitable for families and active couples. With a 4.8-star rating from 84 reviews, this trip is well-loved for its friendly crew and the quality of the lunch.
A reviewer commented, “The sailing was fantastic, and the lunch on the beach was the perfect way to unwind.” If you enjoy being on the water and want a well-organized day with good food, this tour hits the spot.
Bottom Line: This adventure is excellent for those who want a mix of sailing, wildlife, and beach relaxation in one trip, especially if you like good food and gentle activity.
4. Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour
Number four on our list is the Nelson: Abel Tasman Cruise-Fly Day Tour, which offers a comprehensive experience combining sea, land, and air. Starting from Nelson Airport, you’ll cruise through the famous Abel Tasman National Park before heading to Tākaka via scenic shuttle. The tour includes a picnic lunch at Tōtaranui Beach and a visit to Te Waikoropupū Springs, famed for their crystal-clear waters.
What makes this trip unique is the scenic flight over the park, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, which most travelers find breathtaking. The tour also includes a walk past historic gold diggings and a visit to the springs, adding cultural and natural interest. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see as much as possible in a day and enjoy a variety of experiences.
Though it has fewer reviews (7 reviews, 4.3/5), those who have taken the tour mention the excellent views and the well-organized itinerary. The flight portion is often cited as a highlight, giving a perspective you couldn’t get from land or sea alone.
Bottom Line: This full-day tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want a mix of cruise, scenic flight, and cultural stops, ideal if you’re pressed for time but craving a full experience.
5. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise, Kayak, & Hike Tour
If you’re looking for active fun, the Abel Tasman Water & Walk with half-day Kayak is a standout. This 9.5-hour adventure combines a catamaran cruise, guided sea kayaking, and hiking through the native bush, making it perfect for energetic travelers.
The trip kicks off with a boat cruise past Split Apple Rock. Then, you’ll paddle along the coast from Observation Beach, spotting seals and birdlife at Adele Island. After the kayaking, you’ll have a guided coastal walk to Anchorage, where you can relax and take in the scenery. The return cruise completes a full day of exploring.
Rated 5/5 from 6 reviews, this tour is highly regarded for its comprehensive coverage and personalized experience. The guide’s expertise in wildlife and local flora ensures an enriching experience, and the mix of sea, land, and water activities keeps things interesting. Be prepared for physical activity, but everyone from active families to adventure-loving couples will find this worthwhile.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a full-on day of adventure, ideal if you want to maximize your time in Abel Tasman through a blend of cruise, kayak, and hike.
6. Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise and Hike Full-Day Tour
Our final pick is the Abel Tasman National Park: Cruise and Hike Full-Day Tour, which offers a guided hiking experience paired with a scenic cruise. Starting from Nelson, you’ll spend about 6 hours exploring the park’s lush forests, beaches, and wildlife, complemented by a boat cruise that showcases the coastline’s beauty.
Rated a perfect 5/5 from 2 reviews, this tour is for travelers who want an immersive day in nature, learning about the flora, fauna, and history of Abel Tasman. The itinerary includes marine life viewing, swimming, and a picnic lunch on the beach. The combination of gentle hikes and cruising makes it suitable for active but not overly strenuous travelers.
If you love outdoor exploration with some leisure time, this trip offers great value. It also appeals to those interested in learning about the Māori and colonial history of the region, making it both educational and scenic.
Bottom Line: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts wanting a full day combining hiking and cruising, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
How to Choose Your Perfect Nelson Boat Tour
When selecting a boat tour in Nelson, consider your interests, fitness level, and the type of experience you want. If you’re after a flexible, all-around day, the Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour offers a nice balance of activities. For those seeking a relaxed ride with stunning scenery, the Full Park Scenic Cruise is ideal. Adventure lovers wanting more physical activity should check out the Cruise, Kayak, & Hike Tour.
Budget and time are also key. The full-day options provide in-depth exploration, while the shorter cruises suit travelers with limited time. If you’re keen on birdwatching and wildlife, all the tours with marine life viewing will satisfy. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final thoughts
Nelson’s boat tours present a broad spectrum of experiences, from serene cruises to active full-day adventures. The Abel Tasman: Sea Shuttle Cruise and Walking Tour Combo and the Cruise, Kayak & Hike Tour are excellent choices for those wanting variety and engagement. Meanwhile, the Scenic Cruise and Cruise-Fly Tour are perfect for travelers seeking a more relaxed or comprehensive experience.
No matter what you choose, these tours are a fantastic way to see the natural beauty and wildlife of Nelson’s coast. Remember to book early, pack your camera, and prepare for some of the most memorable days you’ll spend on the water in New Zealand.