Everything You Need to Know About Combining a Nelson Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour

The Abel Tasman National Park and nearby Nelson city is one of the most stunning and breathtaking places in New Zealand, and it’s not hard to see why. With its glistening turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and plentiful tracts of ocean, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just out to explore the sights and sounds of this natural paradise, there is an abundance of activities to do in and around this majestic national park.

One of the most popular activities is the opportunity to experience both a walking tour and a cruise around the Abel Tasman National Park. Combining both of these unique experiences into one day offers visitors the chance to explore the natural wonders that the park holds without having to endure long days of either activity.

In this guide, we will discuss everything you need to know about combining a Nelson Abel Tasman National Park walking tour and cruise, so you can get the most out of your time at the national park. We will discuss the various elements that make up the Nelson Abel Tasman experience and will provide an insight into how to book a tour that best fits your travel needs. Read on to find out more!

What Is an Abel Tasman National Park Cruise?

An Abel Tasman National Park cruise is a tour of New Zealand’s third-largest national park by boat. The Abel Tasman National Park spans over 3,000 hectares of land along the north coast of the South Island, stretching for approximately 60 kilometres along the coast. The park’s stunning marine environment provides visitors with a plethora of breathtaking sights, from idyllic beaches and native fauna, to lush Adamastor islands and coral reefs.

A cruise within the park will take you on an exploration of these natural wonders, giving you the chance to witness its picturesque setting from the comfort and convenience of a boat. As part of the tour, you will get to explore some of its distinct coves and beaches, observe the bounty of marine wildlife, including seals, dolphins and penguins, as well as learn about its cultural heritage. There are plenty of cruise options that cater to all levels of comfort and activity – whether you just want to relax on a leisurely tour or make a more intense exploration – there is something for everyone!

What Is an Abel Tasman National Park Walking Tour?

An Abel Tasman National Park walking tour is the ideal way to explore this magnificent park from up close. As part of a walking tour, visitors will get to explore its abundant beauty up close – from its jagged coastline to lush forests – while learning about its eco system and cultural heritage. Experiencing the Abel Tasman National Park on foot is both a physical and mental exercise, as it requires knowledge of local history, topography and wildlife.

A walking tour will provide you with an opportunity to make stops at some of its iconic harbours, beaches, coves and headlands. Depending on your stamina and expertise, it’s possible to walk along any path or track in the park as part of your tour. Some tours may also include activities such as kayaking, snorkelling, mountain biking or even horseriding.

What Can You Expect From An Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo?

A combination of a cruise and walking tour of the Abel Tasman National Park offers visitors the best of both worlds: allowing them to experience the park both on land and on sea. A guided tour will introduce you to the culture and heritage of the park as well as offer insights into its ecology, providing you with an in-depth understanding of this unique environment.

One such tour is operated by Nelson-based adventure company Nature Adventures NZ. This seven-hour combo tour includes exploring the park via kayak, followed by a leisurely stroll around its beachfront coastline. The kayak tour will take you across the crystal-clear oceans to view New Zealand’s marine life while also providing you with stories that span centuries. Afterwards, you will have the chance to discover hidden beaches and coves as you explore New Zealand’s epic landscapes with your knowledgeable guide.

The tours are operated from locations scattered throughout Nelson City, so you won’t have to struggle with transport if you choose to stay in or nearby the city during your visit. Prices for Nature Adventures NZ’s tours start from $259 per person for adults and $209 for children under 14.

Tips for Making The Most Out Of Your Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour

• Plan Ahead: The best way to make the most out of your time at the Abel Tasman National Park is by pre-planning your route and activities before you arrive. Therefore, we recommend taking some time to research before making your booking.
• Be Prepared: Before taking part in a guided tour, make sure you are adequately prepared for it in terms of clothing and other safety equipment; some activities also require that you wear sunscreen and a hat. Remember that it can get hot during summer.
• Check Your Fitness Level: As mentioned above, some tours include activities such as kayaking or mountain biking – so be sure to check that you can physically manage these activities before booking.
• Bring Food: It is important that you are sufficiently nourished during your tour; therefore, we recommend packing snacks such as energy bars and bottled water in order to keep your energy levels up throughout your adventure.
• Take Photos: Don’t forget to bring your camera or phone in order to capture all the sights that this natural wonder offers; you will be able to document your journey with plenty of photographs.

Conclusion: Combining a Cruise & Walking Tour at Abel Tasman National Park is Worthwhile

A combination of a walking tour and cruise within the Abel Tasman National Park is one of the best ways to experience this incredible environment up close. Not only will it allow you to explore it from both land and sea but it will also give you an insight into its culture, heritage and ecology – areas that are often neglected when visiting parks like this.

It’s also important to remember that such tours require adequate preparation on behalf of visitors both in terms of physical fitness levels and safety precautions – such as bringing appropriate clothing and equipment – in order to ensure that visitors can enjoy their experience without compromising their safety in any way.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience within the Abel Tasman National Park then why not consider combining a cruise with a walking tour? It’s easy to book online at GetYourGuide, so take advantage of this unique opportunity today!