How to Plan Your Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo

Are you planning a trip to Nelson, New Zealand? If you’re looking for an adventure in nature, the Abel Tasman National Park cruise and walking tour combo is a must-do for any outdoors enthusiast. In this guide, we will show you how to plan your perfect adventure in Abel Tasman National Park.

Experience

This tour is a full-day boat cruise and walking combination, giving you the opportunity to experience the best the Abel Tasman National Park has to offer. You will have the chance to go on a scenic cruise to sites like Split Apple Rock and a fur seal colony, explore the area’s stunning golden sand beaches and secluded coves, as well as enjoy forest walking and wildlife encounters all in a single day.

Highlights

During this tour, you will have the opportunity to see New Zealand’s most-photographed rock and learn about the myths and legends that surround it. Additionally, you’ll be able to visit the fur seal colony at Adele Island and watch the seals playing on the rocks and bathing offshore. You’ll also be able to discover the stunning golden sand beaches and secluded coves that the area is known for.

Tour Options

There are three different tour options available for the Abel Tasman National Park cruise and walking tour combo. Each option covers a different walking distance and time.

Option 1

Walking distance: 7 km

Walking time: 2.5 hours

Details: After a scenic cruise, you’ll be dropped off at Apple Tree Bay at noon for a walk to Anchorage Beach with time to visit 5 different beaches along the way. There is also the option of adding the 1-hour Pitt Head loop track to Te Pukatea Beach. Pick-up in Anchorage at 15:45 or 17:00

Option 2

Walking distance: 12.4 km

Walking time: 4.5 hours

Details: After a scenic cruise, you’ll be dropped off at Tonga Quarry at 10:00 am for a walk to Medlands Beach. You’ll enjoy beautiful coastal views, pass through lush forest, and walk along secluded beaches. Pick-up in Awaroa at 15:30 or 16:30.

Option 3

Walking distance: 19.5 km

Walking time: 6.5 hours

Details: After a scenic cruise, you’ll be dropped off at Tonga Quarry at 9:00 am for a walk to Totaranui Beach. This option covers the entire coastal track, providing you with the most comprehensive experience of the park. Pick-up in Totaranui at 16:00 or 17:00.

Booking Information

To book the Abel Tasman National Park cruise and walking tour combo, visit this link and select your preferred tour option. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Don’t forget to bring a waterproof layer and a warm jacket, as the weather in Abel Tasman National Park can be unpredictable.

Conclusion

The Abel Tasman National Park cruise and walking tour combo is a fantastic opportunity to experience the natural beauty of New Zealand. With three different tour options, there is a way for everyone to enjoy this stunning park. Make sure to book early and to come prepared for a full day of adventure.

An Insider’s Guide to Nelson, New Zealand

If you’re looking for a unique travel adventure in New Zealand, visiting Nelson should be on your list. Located on the Tasman Bay, this small city has plenty of things to offer to travelers of all types. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or immerse yourself in the city’s culture, Nelson is the perfect destination for you.

Local Attractions Worth Exploring

When you visit Nelson, you’ll find there are plenty of things to do that will keep you entertained. One popular attraction is the Abel Tasman National Park, known for its beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and scenic cruises. You can combine both activities by going on a Abel Tasman National Park Cruise and Walking Tour Combo.

Nelson also boasts a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and exhibitions to visit. If you visit on weekends, you can check out the Nelson Market, where vendors sell fresh produce, food, and crafts.

Those interested in history should visit the World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum, which showcases various vintage cars and costumes from the WOW awards.

Dining Spots You Can’t Miss

Being a coastal city, Nelson has plenty of fresh seafood to offer. For a high-end dining experience, head to The Boatshed Cafe & Restaurant, which has stunning views of the bay. Another great option is Cod & Lobster Brasserie, which specializes in locally-sourced seafood and steak.

If you’re looking for a more casual dining spot, head to Sprig & Fern Brewery. Here, you can sample some local brews and enjoy their delicious pub fare.

Immersive Cultural Experiences

Nelson is known for its artistic community, and you can witness that firsthand by taking a tour of the city’s galleries and creative spaces. The Suter Art Gallery is an excellent place to start, showcasing works by local and national artists.

For a more immersive experience, you can take a Maori guided tour of the city and learn about the history and culture of the Maori people. You can also visit the Founders Heritage Park, which showcases Nelson’s history and the lifestyles of early settlers.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a bit more off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in Nelson. Take a scenic drive to Cable Bay, where you can enjoy a secluded beach surrounded by stunning scenery. You can also take a short hike to the historic Boulder Bank, a natural formation that stretches over 13km out to sea.

Finally, visit the Nelson Provincial Museum, which showcases the history of the city and the region. It has exhibits focused on the local Maori tribes, early settlers, and the natural history of the area.

Final Thoughts

Nelson, New Zealand, is a small city with a lot to offer, from beautiful beaches and scenic parks to rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, art, or history, you’ll find plenty to explore and discover in Nelson. Make sure to add it to your travel itinerary when visiting New Zealand!