Find out where we are, when to check in and other important information.
How to book
Bookings are advised on all our cruises and scheduled water transfers to avoid disappointment. To reserve your seat, make your booking here.
Are you unsure about what experience you want to do? Call, email or come in for a chat and we’ll help firm up your plans.
Find us
The Pelorus Mail Boat check-in office is located at the Pier B, Havelock Marina in Havelock, Marlborough.
Please familiarise yourself with our location to ensure you can be with us on time for your departure.
Parking
Havelock Marina has a pay and display parking area which allow overnight stays. The marina is busy in summer months, so we suggest leaving plenty of time for car parking before your check-in time during the summer.
Check-in
Check-in is a minimum of 30 minutes before your departure time. Please ensure you're on time so we can depart on schedule.
If you're bringing mountain bikes or other large items, please give us as much time as possible to load your gear onto the boat.
Return times
All return times are approximate. While we strive to adhere to our afternoon return time as closely as possible, the amount of mail and other items to pick up and drop off along our route varies. We may also take the opportunity to slow down and watch any marine wildlife we come across. This means we may arrive earlier or later into Havelock than the time stated.
What to wear
To make the most of your day on the Pelorus Mail Boat be prepared for weather conditions to change, as they often do in the Marlborough Sounds. Wear layers of clothing and pack a sunhat, sunscreen and a raincoat. We also sell sunhats on board.
Bring your lunch - or purchase options
Bring your own lunch, snacks and beverages – we provide complimentary tea, coffee and hot water onboard. On a Monday and Wednesday we visit Te Rawa for lunch, you can order when you check in, if you choose to purchase lunch.
Havelock has a number of great cafes, a bakery and a small supermarket where you can buy lunch items before you check in.
Luggage
Bags should be no more than 20kg per item transported. We will not transport any item over 20kg. One bag per person is included in the fare, additional bags will incur an additional charge.
Bikes and kayaks can be carried at additional cost.
While all care will be taken with your bags, bikes, kayaks and personal effects, Pelorus Mail Boat accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage including sea spray or rainfall. We have watertight holds for most luggage, however, we recommend that bags are waterproof or put in a waterproof liner for protection in the event of sea spray or heavy rainfall.
