Top Nelson Water Tours

Home to pristine bays, dense forests, and soaring headlands, the Abel Tasman National Park boasts some of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal scenery—but to appreciate it fully, you have to take to the sea. On this tour, cruise the South Island’s coastal waters and discover top attractions including Split Apple Rock and the Tonga Island Marine Reserve—with live commentary and optional beach stops.

It can be difficult to see all of Abel Tasman National Park if you’re pressed for time. Save some time and see some of the park’s many highlights on this full-day sailing tour along the coast. Sit back and relax on board without the strain of hiking through the park. Stop at beaches and islands along the way, with an hour-long stop at beautiful Anchorage Beach for a picnic lunch.

See Abel Tasman National Park by both land and sea on this combination sailing and walking day tour. After boarding a water taxi at Kaiteriteri Beach, enjoy scenes of Split Apple Rock and the Fisherman and Adele Islands. Land at Anchorage Bay and take a scenic walk around the Pitt Head loop, perhaps stopping for a swim at a secluded beach. Look out for local wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

Explore the Best of Abel Tasman National Park and Golden Bay in One Day! Your friendly guide will pick you up from your accommodation for a scenic journey across the Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills to Kaiteriteri. From there, enjoy a cruise along the stunning coastline of Abel Tasman National Park, famous for its clear waters, golden beaches, and fur seal colonies. Disembark at Tōtaranui for an adventure through Golden Bay, a region of breathtaking landscapes. Explore sub-tropical rainforests, intriguing rock formations, and pristine beaches. Visit Te Waikoropupū Springs, home to some of the world’s clearest water, and enjoy a gourmet picnic or a meal at a local café. Your return journey takes you over Takaka Hill, past unique granite and marble formations, with panoramic views of Golden Bay, Abel Tasman National Park, and Tasman Bay.

Skip the crowded ferry around Abel Tasman National Park and choose a more hands-on, down-to-earth way of exploring the coast on this waka paddling tour. Paddle up to Toka Ngawhā (Split Apple Rock) with your small group and immerse yourself in Māori culture and customs along the way, learning karakia, paddle commands and a waka salute – all in te reo Māori.

Explore the glorious Abel Tasman National Park on this private boat charter. This trip through one of New Zealand’s most famous parks is easily personalized to suit your needs. With hiking, swimming, and kayaking opportunities available to all fitness levels, this day traversing the park's emerald waters and golden sands can be full of adventure or relaxation - the choice is up to you.

Discover the jewel in the South Island’s crown on this full-day Abel Tasman National Park hiking tour with cruise. Travel from Nelson to Kaiteriteri with your guide, then hop aboard your water taxi. Cruise along the coastline toward the heart of the park and the start-point of your trek. Follow hiking trails through the dense forest and learn about the local environment. Stop for lunch at Torrent Beach.

Explore the majestic landscapes of New Zealand's South Island on a 15-day hiking adventure that takes you from Nelson to Queenstown. Traverse lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and the iconic Southern Alps while staying in comfortable backcountry huts and lodges. Enjoy activities like paddling a Māori waka in Abel Tasman National Park, cycling the West Coast Wilderness Trail, and cruising through Milford Sound. This small group experience, limited to 11 hikers, encourages camaraderie and teamwork, with expert Kiwi guides sharing their knowledge of the land. Perfect for active travelers seeking a deep connection with nature and the culture of New Zealand. - 15 days of varied multi-day hikes and cycling through stunning landscapes - Small group size with a maximum of 11 participants for a personalized experience - Paddle a traditional Māori waka and camp near the Abel Tasman beach - Cruise or kayak in the breathtaking Milford Sound, surrounded by fjords and glaciers

Discover the stunning landscapes of Abel Tasman National Park through a unique blend of kayaking and hiking. Begin your adventure with a scenic boat ride from Kaiteriteri Beach to Observation Beach, where the thrill of kayaking awaits. Paddle alongside the vibrant wildlife of Adele Island, including playful New Zealand fur seals, before embarking on a coastal hike filled with breathtaking views and rich birdlife. As your knowledgeable guide shares insights into the park's flora and fauna, enjoy a leisurely trek along the picturesque coastal track to Anchorage, culminating in a return boat cruise along the scenic coastline.