The Coastal Connection
The Coastal Connection is a ferry and train scenic experience between the beautiful North and South Islands of New Zealand.
Your journey can start from either, Christchurch, Kaikoura or Wellington and involves an Interislander ferry cruise between Wellington and Picton crossing Cook Strait separating the North and South Islands and The TranzCoastal train journey between Picton, Kaikoura and Christchurch.
Your Coastal Connection experience starts with an Interislander ferry sailing from Wellington, which has one of the most picturesque harbours in the world, crossing the Cook Strait waters before entering the magnificent Marlborough Sounds. These Sounds are reminiscent of the wonderful Nordic Sounds.
Your Interislander ferriy offers a range of on board facilities for you to enjoy as you view of some of New Zealand's most unique scenery. Enjoy a movie, a drink in the bar and anything from a snack to a three course meal from the Food Court, a nursery, onboard shop, 3 large passenger lounges, work stations, children's play area, plenty of outdoor deck space and friendly onboard crew.
Your Interislander journey ends at Picton where you have time to experience the environment of this unique town with it's unique scenery and attractions such as the Aquarium or the Edwin Fox Museum to name a few, before boarding The TranzCoastal train to Kaikoura and Christchurch.
The TranzCoastal train makes it way down the eastern coast of the South Island, passing through the local Marlborough vineyards, Lake Grassmere Salt Ponds to Kaikoura, which is famous for viewing whales and sea life.
The TranzCoastal train has an open air viewing platform which affords you the opportunity to take wonderful scenic photographs and a Buffet Carriage that services drinks, beers, wines, snacks and light meals.
Why not break your journey and stay overnight in Kaikoura, to take an optional trip to see the whales, or swim with the Dolphins before continuing your rail trip to Christchurch the next day.
The Coastal Connection offers the convenience of one ferry/train ticket plus you can check your luggage through to your final destination.
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