Prior to leaving on the ferry, we wandered around Wellington looking for wool clothing. We
luckily stumbled upon a coat factory outlet, and Jon got a great new wool coat (Italian wool cashmere blend-fancy!). I found a warm black turtleneck and thick scarf to go with my massively thick fleece-lined wool pullover I got at the market in Rotorua. We should be ready for the glaciers now!
We made our way over to the harbor, and were the last campervan to get in line. The ship was running late, so eventually everyone got out of their cars and started milling about, checking out the view and the different campervan models. We met some really nice people and got some tips and information about the south island.
Interislander boat with Wellington in the background.
Our ship
Loading onto the boat was pretty interesting! I can't believe that all of these vehicles fit!
We sat on the upper deck and ate some sushi we picked up in town. It should be a great voyage...clear as a bell after last night's torrential rains. The trip is about three hours.
Coast west of Wellington
Wellington sure looks small now!
Jon modelling his new duds.
We can start to see the south island off in the distance.
The last view of the north island.
If you look carefully, you can see the whole south island! Mt. Cook is the highest peak, visible in the center of the photograph. We could see all of the southern alps range...pretty lucky.
Sailing into the Marlborough Sounds
Kim being blown away, literally!
Upon entering the sound, we realized that it's all lumber forests full of Monterey Pine!
The sun was beginning to set.
Is this guy a Maine sea captain?
The sound was really beautiful and tranquil.
And finally we arrived at the small town of Picton, at center. We stayed here for the night and went out to dinner at the Crow Tavern. The tavern was absolutely hopping and had live music. It was pretty fun watching the scene, a mixture of all ages, and everybody knew everybody.
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