Cruise, Walk, and Sail in Abel Tasman National Park
Recommended by 94% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Nelson, New Zealand
- 6 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Overview
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.
- A chance to see tourist hotspots including Split Apple Rock
- See various landscapes, from small islands to bush-clad coastlines
- The beautiful Pitt Head loop walk isn't too long or challenging
- Spend an easy day in one of New Zealand's most accessible national parks
What's Included
- All taxes, fees and handling charges
- Driver/guide
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Landing and facility fees
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- No walking guide provided on walk
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures5 Kaiteriteri-Sandy Bay Road, Kaiteriteri 7197, New Zealand
Our office is between the Waterfront Restaurant and the Kaiteriteri Store. If you are booked on the 9am water taxi please check in at the Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle Office no later than 8.30am. If the Abel Tasman Sailing Office is closed please check in at the Abel Tasman Sea Shuttle office directly.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
1
Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures
6 hours • Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in most weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 40 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Mike_d
We arrived in Nelson/New Zealand to start our honeymoon the day before (mid-March 2025), so this was the first true full day AND excursion for the entire trip. It was an incredible experience and sure set the standard for the remainder of our stay.
A lot of windy roads to reach Kaiteriteri Beach, but nonetheless, parking and finding the meetup spot was relatively easy. The check-in desk was very helpful with any questions/issues.
Even though it was down-pouring at the very start of the morning, the cruise boat still operated on time and had comfortable seating. Our overall ride was about 45 minutes or so, but the navigator/host had excellent communication regarding the nearby sites, historical facts and where we were at in relation to everything.
We were then dropped off at Anchorage Bay, where everyone was free to hike, explore or simply relax on the beach. We decided to explore the hiking route towards Cleopatra's Bay. It's a 1 hour uphill ascent (easy-mid level) and the breathtaking views/nature were absolutely worth it! Once we reached and returned from our hiking destination, we walked along the beach/shore, which was absolutely clean and beautiful (along with very sunny, comfortable weather by that point).
Lastly, our giant group sailboat arrived, as we very slowly/casually made our way back to Kaiteriteri Beach. The staff on the boat were so friendly, nice and professional. Cookies & tea were provided, along with numerous places on the sailboat to kick back and relax. They even stopped at one bit to allow any passengers to jump in the water for a dip (best to wear your bathingsuit from the start, or at least a change of clothes). We arrived about 2 hours later then originally anticipating, but we had such a blast and no set plans afterwards anyway, so it didn't really matter.
Reasonably priced for the experience and all the staff that crossed our path was excellent. Every tourist we met was also great company and a pleasure to be around. Lucked out with some magnificent weather after a rainy start too. If you're in the Nelson (-ish) area on vacation, I would highly recommend this expedition :)
Reviews
4.6
based on 34 reviews
Eryn_Y, Apr 2026
It was a lovely way to experience Abel Tassman Park. We were able to do some open ocean sailing, see the beautiful golden beaches, do a small hike and even the fur seals were out enjoying the day. The crew was funny, knowledgeable and a blast to be around. We highly recommend this tour if you are looking for a relaxing way to see more of the park.
Alex_M, Feb 2026
Excellent taxi boat ride to Abel Tasman Anchorage bay followed by a nice trail hike and a 3 hours sailing on a lovely catamaran with a charming pilot and his partner. We truly enjoyed the tour.
Tom_V, Jan 2026
If you come in on a cruise, the activity is 60 minute drive from the port and the transport is not included. There is no public transportation to the area, so you need to preplan your transportation!
Once we got there, the water tour and activities were great.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Hi Tom. Pleased we got you to the boat in time and that you enjoyed the trip. This is a good opportunity to highlight to people for all trips everywhere that when planning your excursion also plan how you will get there and back from your accommodation. With advance notice we can assist with planning the transfers, leaving it to the morning of your trip is not helpful. There is a regular bus service we can book people on, or we can arrange private transfers - just please give us a little time to arrange this! Thanks for sailing with us.
Annette_S, Jan 2026
Make sure you arrive very early or you won’t get a car park. We arrived 45 mins prior but could not get a car park anywhere. The provider told us where the car park we were meant to use was when we arrived and checked in, but car park was jammed up and full. My husband was very angry, would have been nice to be pre warned and given some sort of guidance by the provider the day before. Didn’t end up going on the cruise
Response from Host, Jan 2026
This is a review about the carparking in Kaiteriteri, not about our sailing trip which you admit you didn't do. Sorry you didn't have a good experience finding a car park in Kaiteriteri but this is not something we have any influence on. Check in for our trip is 30 minutes prior so you only allowed yourselves 15 minutes to find a car park at peak time, in peak holiday season in a popular holiday destination town. We did our best to find you an alternative trip option and offered to put you on a later departure at no extra charge. But your husband was so full of anger in the delay in getting a car park that he refused and stormed off. We could still have provided a lovely day out but it was your choice not to accept this.
John_F, Jan 2026
Mark was a great captain and tour guide on the catamaran. Lots of loos available but do take a picnic and lots to drink for hot days.
Response from Host, Jan 2026
We are certainly having a lovely spell of hot and sunny weather. It is always important to keep hydrated so having a water bottle to hand is a good idea. There are no shops or cafes in the National Park so it is important to bring your food if this has not been included in your tour. Many thanks for sailing with us.
Anthony_H, Dec 2025
3 hour cruise/sail on a catamaran along the beautiful coast of the Abel Tasman National Park. The captain and first mate did a great job and found us some wind to sail in despite being in the lee of the land which blocked most of the wind.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
Thanks for sailing with us. The wind can be tricky and fickle sometimes but if we can make the sailing happen we will! Thanks.
Noreen_W, Dec 2025
Pitt loop was beautiful, but it did not take very long, so there is alot of time to kill on the beach. I wish I would have discovered sooner, that there was time to do the Cleopatra Pool hike- a good idea if you want more hiking vs sitting. You can also do short parts of other trails. Almost missed the excursion because Viator did not notify me that they would not be at the AT Sailing Adventures ticket kiosk as noted in the booking, but that we were to check in with another company's kiosk. The only way I found this out was when nobody showed up at 8:50 for a 9:00 sailing, I asked at the neighboring company if this was unusual. They had our name and info and said they were giving us a ride to Anchorage Bay, and we would sail back with AT Sailing Adventures. Almost missed the excursion because of this mix-up. During this time, I reached out to Viator but did not receive a response. If this happens to you, check around. Viator has always been excellent, so this lack of communication surprised me.
Response from Host, Dec 2025
The 9am water taxi gives you time for the walk and plenty of beach time. The 10.30am water taxi departure allows the same trip but without the beach time - both are choices when making your booking. You were booked on the 9am water taxi and they were expecting you so pleased you asked them. Unfortunately you didn't have our direct contact as we could have taken away you worry. Great things worked out okay. Many thanks for sailing with us.
Shuvranil_G, Nov 2025
Wonderful staff from ticket counter to the end. Detailed instructions and service with a smile. Activities has something for everyone across ages and tastes.
Response from Host, Nov 2025
Great to hear our team looked after you so well. Something for everyone sums it up really well. Thank you!
Mike_d, Apr 2025
We arrived in Nelson/New Zealand to start our honeymoon the day before (mid-March 2025), so this was the first true full day AND excursion for the entire trip. It was an incredible experience and sure set the standard for the remainder of our stay.
A lot of windy roads to reach Kaiteriteri Beach, but nonetheless, parking and finding the meetup spot was relatively easy. The check-in desk was very helpful with any questions/issues.
Even though it was down-pouring at the very start of the morning, the cruise boat still operated on time and had comfortable seating. Our overall ride was about 45 minutes or so, but the navigator/host had excellent communication regarding the nearby sites, historical facts and where we were at in relation to everything.
We were then dropped off at Anchorage Bay, where everyone was free to hike, explore or simply relax on the beach. We decided to explore the hiking route towards Cleopatra's Bay. It's a 1 hour uphill ascent (easy-mid level) and the breathtaking views/nature were absolutely worth it! Once we reached and returned from our hiking destination, we walked along the beach/shore, which was absolutely clean and beautiful (along with very sunny, comfortable weather by that point).
Lastly, our giant group sailboat arrived, as we very slowly/casually made our way back to Kaiteriteri Beach. The staff on the boat were so friendly, nice and professional. Cookies & tea were provided, along with numerous places on the sailboat to kick back and relax. They even stopped at one bit to allow any passengers to jump in the water for a dip (best to wear your bathingsuit from the start, or at least a change of clothes). We arrived about 2 hours later then originally anticipating, but we had such a blast and no set plans afterwards anyway, so it didn't really matter.
Reasonably priced for the experience and all the staff that crossed our path was excellent. Every tourist we met was also great company and a pleasure to be around. Lucked out with some magnificent weather after a rainy start too. If you're in the Nelson (-ish) area on vacation, I would highly recommend this expedition :)
Response from Host, Apr 2025
So happy to hear you had a great day and wonderful start to your New Zealand holiday. It sounds like the weather was one of those "challenging" days, so it is so good to hear that you still had a wonderful time. Thank you for sailing with us.
john_G, Mar 2025
The walk is way more strenuous than they advertise . Not leisurely at all! Mostly uphill but beautiful scenery.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Everyone's level of fitness and walking ability differs and only you can make a judgment if the walking is for you. Most people do find the 1.5 hour walk from the beach around the headland and back to the beach not difficult. And yes, the scenery is indeed beautiful. Thank you for sailing with us.
Craig_R, Mar 2025
Informative water taxi ride up to Anchorage Bay - choose of hikes (Pitt Head Loop) and 3 hour catamaran sail back. Cat crew was great - took time to find some wind and talk with every passenger. Recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Thanks for the recommendation. And thanks for sailing with us!
Fiona_M, Mar 2025
The first part is on the sea shuttle where there is a commentary which is very informative plus you see Split Rock up close and fur seals.
The walk is easy to navigate and definitely worth walking to Pitt Head lookout first then dropping down to the most amazing beach for a swim in the turquoise waters!! It’s then only a short walk back to Anchorage to meet the catamaran. Inky our skipper and Claudia his assistant were superb and very knowledgeable! We did feel 37 people was slightly too many and as usual some people sat out front and didn’t move for the whole trip!!
After stopping for a water fill up where you were able to have a quick swim, Inky got the sails up and we sailed nearly all the way back!! Abel Tasman was stunning and the whole trip was superb!
Jay_S, Feb 2025
This was a nice way to see the park and do a little of everything. The company was professional and Marco and Claudia did a good job on the sailing segment of the trip. If this is something interesting for you, then I recommend this company.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Thank you for the recommending us. We do have a few different combo trips which means people can choose the best one for them. Thanks for sailing with us.
Natalie_E, Feb 2025
Wonderful relaxing trip. All staff were friendly and knowledgeable. The lady that gave us the ‘golden ticket’ had the most beautiful smile. Sailing back on the Catamaran was an experience we’ll never forget. Highly recommended.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
How delightful! So many beautiful smiles here that we all want to claim that compliment! So pleased to hear you had a great experience with us. Thank you.
JohnDavid_C, Jan 2025
A fantastic day in Abel Tasman. All three parts were good with each part getting better. The water taxi cruised by Split Rock and other great sites with light but good commentary The hike was beautiful. Has some steepness to it but is counterbalanced by great views. It took us 1 hour and 25 minutes to do the loop and enjoy the views and birds. Wekas everywhere
The highlight was the :four hour sail back to port. Marco and Claudia were energetic and fun. So relaxing.
Definitely a must do.
Response from Host, Jan 2025
It is hard to beat a fantastic day in The Park! The Cruise, Walk & Sail is a good mixture for a good day out. Thanks for sailing with us.
Sally_O, Nov 2024
Most enjoyable day with my adult son on our travels together in NZ. We both felt renewed by the sun and water and loved the experience. Captain & mate were so welcoming and full of interesting history and local advice for our journey to the west coast. Thank you!
Response from Host, Dec 2024
The Abel Tasman is certainly a lovely place to be renewed! Thanks for sailing with us.
HeatherMichael_R, Mar 2024
Sailing in and out of the bays enjoying all the Able Tasman has to offer. Sharing this time with my husband on our 56th wedding anniversary.
Response from Host, Feb 2025
Thanks for sharing your special day with us. Thank you.
Susana_G, Dec 2023
So! Much! Fun! What a beautiful day with an excellent crew with plenty time to hike in the park. Do bring food and water. There is no where to purchase
Bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Prepare for a memorable day.
Response from Host, Jan 2024
Thanks! We are happy to hear you had a great day!
Mie_V, Jan 2026
A perfectly organized excursion to get a sense of the beauty of the Abel Tasman NP. The walk to Pitt Head Outlook was quite nice and not difficult. The picnic we ordered was nice. The explanation of the skippers was interesting.
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Response from Host, Jan 2026
Thank you for enjoying your sailing with us and the beautiful coastal walk of the Abel Tasman National Park. Happy Travels.
From $119.75
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
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