Abel Tasman Day Trip

Flexible Hiking and Relaxation

Cruise Overview
Our six-hour Best Abel Tasman Day trip is designed for flexibility, making it ideal for groups with a range of activity preferences.

Whether you want to be active or simply unwind, everyone can tailor the experience to suit their mood and energy level.

Beach Visits and Hiking Opportunities

This adventure includes two scenic beach stops in the heart of New Zealand's Abel Tasman National Park, providing ample opportunities for hiking along the renowned Abel Tasman Coastal Track.

Kayaking is typically recommended at the first beach for its closeness to thriving coastal wildlife, but guests who prefer land-based adventures can explore the beaches, tracks, and forests on foot.

Itinerary Variations

Each day's itinerary is adjusted based on weather and tides, with Onetahuti and Bark Bay being the most common destinations:

• Onetahuti: This expansive beach takes about 15 minutes to walk from end to end. Ambitious hikers can follow the Abel Tasman Coastal Track uphill for iconic views before returning, perhaps taking a dip in the sparkling water on the way back.
• Bark Bay: Here, you can join the high tide track, which winds around a picturesque inlet and crosses a charming bridge. The area’s broad tidal beach is another excellent spot for swimming.

After up to an hour of exploring each bay, you'll return to the boat to enjoy a delicious onboard lunch with stunning coastal views.

The Pitt Head Nature Loop

Unlike standard tours, the second beach stop features our favourite section of the Abel Tasman Great Walk: the Pitt Head Nature Loop.

This hidden gem is less visited, showcasing some of the park's most diverse coastal forests. The loop offers sweeping views and tranquil fern glades, taking about an hour to complete.

Relaxation Options

If you'd rather relax than hike, there’s plenty of time to stroll the golden sands and swim in the blue-green waters of Te Pukatea Bay, surrounded by lush native forest.

Alternatively, stay on board, bask in the sun, listen to the soothing sounds of the sea and forest, and simply savour the moment with a refreshing drink.

Cruise Timetable

A day out on the water is always great with lots to see and sometimes we see the most spectacular sights, here in the Abel Tasman.

Keep your eyes peeled when walking as saddleback, an endangered New Zealand native bird, have been released on Adele Island and you may be lucky to see them.

Weka (a flightless bird sometimes mistaken for a kiwi) may join you if you choose to stretch your legs on part of the Abel Tasman Coastal Track (one of New Zealand's Great Walks).

The Te Pukatea headland walk has increasing bird song thanks to Project Janszoon and the Abel Tasman Birdsong Trust. Listen to the very distinctly New Zealand bellbird/koromiko and tui as you walk.

So enjoy your time on board. Whether on a day trip or a private charter, go for a swim or a walk, or you can enjoy kayaking around some of the small bays enjoying the sights and sounds that the Abel Tasman has to offer.

We return to Stephens Bay around 4pm.

Map and directions to your cruise embarkation

From Nelson and Motueka: Head south out of Nelson on SH6 then take SH60 to Motueka. 6km north of Motueka turn right off SH60 towards Kaiteriteri.

Stephens Bay Road is the next right - 3.8km from the turnoff. Easy sign to miss - it is blue and just states 'Stephens Bay Road No Exit'.

Come down to the beach and the skipper will come in and pick you up off the beach at 9.50am.

Any problems please call 0800 223522, and we will guide you in.

We can offer a transport option on a combined operator bus service from Nelson to Abel Tasman Charters departure point for $70 return per person. For information and bookings please email – bookings@Betterbus.co.nz – arrives at Stephens Bay at 9am – departs 4.05pm

View Larger Map