Step aboard Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully-electric ferry, and experience a quiet, zero-emission cruise revealing Wellington Harbour’s rich maritime history. This 90-minute tour from East by West combines local stories with sweeping water views in the heart of New Zealand’s capital.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly seated or stationary during cruise
Wildlife
History
Wellington Harbour has long been a strategic maritime hub, hosting indigenous Maori settlements and evolving into New Zealand’s capital port by the 19th century.
Conservation
East by West’s electric ferry reduces fossil fuel use, lowering emissions and sound pollution to protect marine ecosystems in the harbour.
East by West
Step aboard Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully-electric ferry, and experience a quiet, zero-emission cruise revealing Wellington Harbour’s rich maritime history. This 90-minute tour from East by West combines local stories with sweeping water views in the heart of New Zealand’s capital.
East by West is a Wellington-based ferry operator offering curated harbour experiences and island day trips. Based at Queens Wharf in central Wellington, East by West runs pre-bookable ferry sailings to Mātiu/Somes Island (Somes Island) with routes that include scenic passages via Days Bay and a dedicated return departure from the island.
The operator also runs a 90-minute commentated harbour tour aboard Ika Rere, the Southern Hemisphere’s first fully-electric passenger ferry. That 90-minute cruise combines expert commentary with quiet, engine-noise-free travel while highlighting Wellington Harbour’s history and landmarks.
East by West completes over 9,000 annual crossings, providing reliable scheduled services and specialised tour departures that appeal to residents and visitors. Safety and environmental stewardship are core operational priorities: zero-emissions ferry operation and clear boarding procedures support responsible harbour tourism and conservation-minded visits to Mātiu/Somes Island. Passenger information, pre-booking options, and clearly stated departure points at Queens Wharf help visitors plan seamless arrival and return logistics.
For day-trip visitors, the Mātiu/Somes Island sailings offer time ashore to explore walking tracks and wildlife viewing while maintaining dedicated sailing times that ensure predictable returns. For harbour enthusiasts, the commentated tour on Ika Rere offers narrated insights about Wellington’s maritime past and present. East by West’s combination of central departure, electric ferry technology, and focused itineraries makes it a trustworthy choice for short, sustainable maritime experiences in Wellington Harbour.
Timetables, booking details and accessibility information are available online to help plan visits and confirm departure times from Queens Wharf to the island and back.
Electric Ferry
Ika Rere
First fully-electric passenger ferry
Regular Crossings
9,000+ annually
Frequent harbour service
Departure Point
Queens Wharf
Central Wellington embarkation
Tours Offered
2 signature trips
Harbour tour and island day trip
Reserve seats for the 90-minute commentated tour or pre-book Mātiu/Somes Island day trips departing Queens Wharf.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Arrive at least 10 minutes before departure at Berth C, Queens Wharf to ensure smooth boarding.
Dress for Variable Weather
Bring layers and sun or rain protection as Wellington’s coastal weather can change quickly.
Limited Accessibility
Note that steep stairs and gangways make this ferry unsuitable for wheelchair users.
Beverages Available Onboard
A fully licensed bar is available; bring cash or card if you'd like refreshments during the cruise.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Protects against Wellington’s famously gusty harbour winds.
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Sunscreen
Necessary for exposed deck areas during sunny days.
summer|spring|fall
Hat or Cap
Helps shield eyes and face from glare over the water.
summer|spring
Comfortable Footwear
Non-slip shoes are recommended for navigating gangways and ferry stairs safely.
all