SeaLink - Car and Passenger Ferry

Your Smooth Sail to Waiheke Island with SeaLink

There’s something undeniably exciting about heading out to Waiheke Island — the sparkling sea, the salty breeze, and the promise of vineyards, beaches, and unforgettable adventures. But before your island journey begins, there’s one important decision to make: how will you get there?

If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable, and scenic way to reach Waiheke, SeaLink is the answer. As the only car ferry operating on the Hauraki Gulf, SeaLink is ideal whether you’re bringing your vehicle, your bike, or simply hopping aboard as a foot passenger. Their regular services from both Half Moon Bay in East Auckland and Wynyard Quarter in Auckland City make the journey to Waiheke as stress-free as it is beautiful.

From East Auckland: Departing Half Moon Bay

For travellers based in East or South Auckland — or anyone wanting to skip the city centre — Half Moon Bay is the ultimate jump-off point. Just a short drive from suburbs like Howick, Pakuranga, and Botany, the Half Moon Bay terminal offers a calm, convenient departure with ample parking, easy vehicle boarding, and a relaxed vibe.

Boarding with your car means you’ll be ready to hit the road as soon as you reach Waiheke, without relying on public transport or rental pickups. It’s a particularly great option for:

• Families travelling with kids or beach gear

• Groups on wine tours or weekend getaways

• Corporate teams bringing over equipment for events or retreats

• Cyclists bringing their own bikes for island exploration

• Locals heading to their holiday homes

With multiple daily sailings and early morning and late evening options, SeaLink from Half Moon Bay is ideal for both day-trippers and overnight stays.

From Central Auckland: Wynyard Quarter Convenience

If you’re coming from the city, SeaLink’s Wynyard Quarter terminal offers the same excellent service and stunning views, with the added buzz of Auckland’s waterfront. It’s a great option for tourists, city-based corporates, or anyone kicking off their Waiheke adventure straight from the CBD.

Passengers can board with or without a vehicle, and foot passengers can still bring bikes, pets (in approved carriers), and luggage. SeaLink’s friendly crew are always on hand to help make the process easy and enjoyable.

Aboard SeaLink: Travel in Comfort and Style

Forget about crowded commutes — travelling with SeaLink is an experience in itself. Once aboard, you can unwind in spacious indoor lounges or head out to the deck to soak up panoramic views of Rangitoto, Motuihe, Browns Island, and the sparkling Hauraki Gulf.

One of the best features? The onboard licensed café. Serving up great coffee, cold drinks, snacks, and even hot meals, it’s the perfect way to relax and refuel while you cruise. Whether you're sipping a flat white on the morning sailing or enjoying a cold beer on the way home, SeaLink ensures the journey is part of the fun.

With a sailing time of around one hour, you'll have plenty of time to kick back, snap some photos, and take in the ever-changing coastal scenery. It’s not just transport — it’s a mini island getaway in itself.

Why Choose SeaLink?

• Bring Your Car: The only ferry operator that lets you drive on and off with ease. Ideal for travellers wanting full flexibility once on the island.

• Bike-Friendly: Bring your bicycle and enjoy Waiheke’s many scenic rides and trails.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome too, with designated travel areas and carrier options.

• Group Travel Made Easy: Great for corporate groups, wedding parties, and friends planning a day trip or celebration.

• Eco-Friendly Travel: SeaLink has made significant efforts to reduce emissions and support sustainable travel around the Hauraki Gulf.

Getting to Waiheke Has Never Been Easier

Whether you're heading over for a team building retreat, corporate offsite, wedding, family getaway, or just an impromptu adventure, SeaLink makes it easy.

Bringing your own car? It’s a great way to ensure seamless movement between vineyards, beaches, accommodations, and activity providers like The Great Escape or EcoZip Adventures. Prefer not to drive? SeaLink connects smoothly with local bus and shuttle operators, so you're always covered.

Plan Your Waiheke Getaway with SeaLink

Here’s how to book your spot on board:

• Visit www.sealink.co.nz

• Choose your departure terminal — Half Moon Bay or Wynyard Quarter

• Select vehicle + passengers, foot passengers, or bike transport

• Secure your ideal sailing time in advance (especially in peak season)

If you’re working with a group, Destination Waiheke can even help coordinate your SeaLink bookings as part of a full event package. We’re here to take care of the details, so you can focus on the fun.

Smooth Sailing Awaits

Don’t just visit Waiheke — arrive in style. With SeaLink, your holiday or event starts the moment you set sail. Reliable, comfortable, and scenic, it’s the smart way to cross the Gulf and step into island time.