Nelson, on the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is a prime spot for cruises and boat tours. Its proximity to the stunning Abel Tasman National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring New Zealand’s coast by sea. Whether you’re after a relaxed day of sailing, a guided hike with a cruise, or a luxurious private charter, Nelson offers options to suit every taste. We particularly like the Abel Tasman Vista Cruise for its easy access and flexible beach stops, and the Full-Day Sailing Adventure for those wanting a more immersive experience with wildlife and scenic sailing. For a truly personalized experience, the Private boat charter lets you tailor your day to your interests, making it perfect for families or small groups.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 8 best cruises and boat tours in Nelson, highlighting what makes each stand out. From half-day adventures to multi-day sailing holidays, there’s something here to help you enjoy the coast in a way that suits your style.
- 1. Abel Tasman Vista Cruise
- 2. Full-Day Sailing Adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park
- 3. Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise
- 4. Private boat charter in Abel Tasman National Park
- 5. Cruise, Walk, and Sail in Abel Tasman National Park
- 6. 3-Day Abel Tasman Sailing Holiday
- 7. Cruise Abel Tasman to Golden Bay
- 8. Abel Tasman Adventure Private Tour from Nelson Cruise Port
- How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Nelson
1. Abel Tasman Vista Cruise
Taking top spot, the Abel Tasman Vista Cruise owes its high ratings (4.5/5 from 414 reviews) to its straightforward approach: see the park from the sea without the fuss. This tour offers a hassle-free round-trip from Kaiteriteri Beach, making it ideal for visitors short on time but eager to experience the coast’s highlights. You’ll cruise along the coastline, taking in sights like Split Apple Rock and the Tonga Island Marine Reserve—both of which are iconic. Optional beach stops allow for inland exploration, including short walks along the Abel Tasman Coast Track. The flexibility to stay on the boat or hop off for a quick hike is a huge plus, according to travelers.
The tour lasts about 3 to 6 hours, with a reasonable price of around $67.64 per person. Reviewers praise the friendly crew and scenic views, though some noted the description’s hike-on-off option wasn’t always clear beforehand. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxing sea view with optional land adventures.
Bottom Line: A well-balanced, flexible tour offering great scenery, easy logistics, and a taste of Abel Tasman’s beauty—perfect if you’re limited on time but still want to see the coast.
2. Full-Day Sailing Adventure in the Abel Tasman National Park
For around $167.55, the Full-Day Sailing Adventure delivers a comprehensive experience. This 7.5-hour tour is ideal for travelers who want to relax while enjoying wildlife encounters and iconic sights like Split Apple Rock and Adele Island, home to fur seals and native birds. The trip begins at Kaiteriteri, where you set sail along the coast, soaking in stunning views and learning about the park’s marine life and history.
A highlight is the anchorage bay stop, where a packed picnic lunch awaits, and you have time for swimming or a forest walk. The crew, including guides like Inky, are praised for their friendliness, and the boat’s relaxed vibe makes it a comfortable, educational day on the water. Reviewers appreciate the opportunity to see seals and enjoy the scenery without the fatigue of a full hike.
This tour is best suited for those who want a combination of sailing and wildlife viewing in a laid-back setting. It’s particularly great for families or couples who prefer maritime adventures over land-based hikes.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day on the water that combines scenic sailing with wildlife viewing—ideal for travelers who want a leisurely, memorable outing.
3. Full-Day Abel Tasman National Park Hiking Tour with Cruise
If you’d rather hit the trails than just cruise, this full-day hiking tour is the way to go. At around $371.72, it’s a more premium option—focused on those eager to combine guided walks with a scenic cruise. The tour starts with hotel or port pickup, then heads to Kaiteriteri, where you’ll hop aboard a water taxi to the heart of the park. The guide will lead you on a walk along sections of the Great Walk, with options to explore beaches, rainforest, and native flora and fauna.
What sets this tour apart is the small group setting and the expertise of guides like Blair and Lucy, who are known for their engaging knowledge and personalized service. The cruise and hike combination lets you see must-visit spots like the Pitt Head loop while avoiding the challenge of navigation or getting lost. Lunch is included, keeping your energy up after a morning of exploration. Reviewers mention that guides are personable and knowledgeable, enhancing the experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those who want a guided, in-depth experience of Abel Tasman’s natural beauty with expert guiding and a full day of activity.
4. Private boat charter in Abel Tasman National Park
Looking for a customized day on the water? The Private boat charter offers a flexible, personalized experience, ideal for up to 8 people and costing around $1,985.83 for 6 hours. This tour lets you design your own itinerary, whether it’s hiking, kayaking, swimming, or simply relaxing on the boat. The boat can cruise through the diverse scenery of beaches, forests, and wildlife, with the skipper tailoring stops to your interests.
Guests have praised the knowledgeable skipper and the ability to adapt the day’s activities. It’s perfect for families, small groups, or couples wanting an exclusive experience. The tour can include stops at the Tonga Island Marine Reserve, to see the fur seals and enjoy snorkelling, or leisurely explore secluded beaches and coves. The flexibility means you can include activities like kayaking or just soak up the scenery.
Drawback? It’s pricier than other options, but the luxury of a private, tailored day makes it worthwhile. Reviewers highlight the personalized service and stunning scenery as major positives.
Bottom Line: For a fully customizable, private day on the water, this tour is an excellent choice—especially if you value privacy and flexibility.
5. Cruise, Walk, and Sail in Abel Tasman National Park
This half-day combined tour offers a great way to experience both land and sea. For about $127.22, you get to cruise along Abel Tasman’s coast, see landmarks like Split Apple Rock, and then walk the Pitt Head loop track. The tour departs from Kaiteriteri at around 10:30 am, with time for a walk of about 1-1.5 hours, making it perfect for travelers with limited time.
The itinerary includes a sailing segment on a catamaran, during which you can enjoy the scenery, perhaps spot some seals, and relax with complimentary drinks. Reviewers note the friendly crew and the opportunity to see secluded coves, islands, and beaches. The combination of sailing and walking makes it appealing to those who want variety without committing to a full day.
Best suited for nature lovers who want a taste of everything, this tour balances scenic cruising with light hiking, with good value for the price.
Bottom Line: A compact, scenic trip combining sailing with a short coastal walk—great if you want a balanced experience in a limited timeframe.
6. 3-Day Abel Tasman Sailing Holiday
For those wanting a truly immersive experience, this three-day sailing holiday offers a fully personalized, private adventure. Costing around $0 (price not specified), this is a live-aboard tour for up to 8 guests, featuring private cabins and custom activities. Skippers and guides like Al or Rod tailor the experience to your interests, whether that’s hiking, snorkeling, or just relaxing on deck.
Guests can explore the coastline, visit islands, or enjoy sailing lessons. The flexibility allows for a mix of adventure and downtime, ideal for families or groups of friends. Reviewers love the personalized attention and the chance to craft a trip that fits their pace and preferences. The cost reflects the exclusive nature of the experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for groups seeking a private, multi-day escape with the freedom to choose your activities and enjoy a custom, relaxed sailing holiday.
7. Cruise Abel Tasman to Golden Bay
This full-day tour offers a comprehensive journey from Nelson, combining cruise, cultural stops, and scenic drives. Starting with a cruise along Abel Tasman’s iconic coastline, you’ll see fur seal colonies and golden beaches. Then, the trip continues over Takaka Hill into Golden Bay, with stops at the famous Pupu Springs and the town of Takaka.
The tour appeals to those who want both a coastal cruise and a taste of local culture and natural landmarks. The Pupu Springs are particularly notable for their clarity, and the drive over Takaka Hill offers stunning views. Reviewers appreciate the balance of sea and land experiences, making it a full day of sightseeing.
This tour suits those interested in both nature and cultural sights, with plenty of time to explore at each stop.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one day tour ideal for travelers wanting a mix of boating, sightseeing, and local flavor.
8. Abel Tasman Adventure Private Tour from Nelson Cruise Port
Our final pick is a customizable private tour designed for cruise passengers or visitors who want a flexible, tailored experience. Starting from Nelson, it includes a scenic drive, optional Great Walk exploration, or kayaking (additional cost). The tour can be customized to include beach stops, hikes, or just relaxing on the coast. The price is around $647 per person for approximately 7 hours, offering a more exclusive experience.
Guests can ask guides like Tim for local recommendations, stop at Motueka’s famous doughnut shops, or explore Abel Tasman at their own pace. The flexibility and personal attention make it ideal for those who value privacy and customization.
Drawbacks include the cost and the need for pre-booking, but for those wanting a bespoke adventure, this tour offers the ultimate tailored experience.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers who want a private, fully customizable day exploring Abel Tasman’s stunning coast.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour in Nelson
Picking the best tour depends on your budget, time, and interests. If you want an easy, scenic introduction, the Abel Tasman Vista Cruise is a solid choice. For a full immersion into wildlife and sailing, the Full-Day Sailing Adventure is hard to beat. Want a guided walk with a small group? The Full-Day Abel Tasman Hiking Tour hits that mark.
If privacy and customization matter most, consider the Private boat charter or the Private Tour from Nelson, which allow you to craft your perfect day. Those short on time or looking for a mix of sea and land in half a day should look at the Cruise, Walk, and Sail options.
Booking early is recommended, especially for private or multi-day tours, and consider the season—summer offers the best weather for sailing and hiking.
Nelson’s wide range of cruises and boat tours ensures there’s something for all—from scenic day trips to exclusive private charters. Whether you’re into wildlife, gentle sailing, or guided adventures, you’ll find a tour that suits your style. For most visitors, a combination of scenic cruising and land-based exploration offers the perfect balance. We encourage you to book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred experience and make the most of your time on New Zealand’s stunning coast.