Wild Weather in Cook Strait Leaves Ferry Passengers Anxious
Holiday travelers crossing the Cook Strait between Wellington and Picton found themselves facing unexpected challenges as wild weather disrupted New Year’s Eve sailings. With a strong southerly swell causing concern, two Interislander sailings and all six Bluebridge sailings on the morning of December 31 had to be canceled, leaving passengers with a sense of unease.
Passengers arriving in Wellington shared their experiences of rough seas and seasickness during the stormy crossings. Charlotte, accompanied by her twin 11-year-olds on their first trip to the South Island, expressed a mix of excitement and nervousness about the journey ahead. While her daughters were eager for their holiday in Tākaka, they were apprehensive about the potentially turbulent sailing.
Conversely, Rudi from Germany, an experienced traveler who had been exploring New Zealand by bike, remained calm and unfazed by the impending ferry ride. Another passenger, Gonzalo from Spain, determined to make the most of his time in New Zealand, decided to push through the adverse weather conditions for the opportunity to see the picturesque Marlborough Sounds.
Ship entertainer Siofra Martin, tasked with keeping young passengers entertained during the journey, shared her plans to distract children with games and balloon animals while also offering tips to alleviate seasickness. As the Kaiarahi ferry prepared to depart from Wellington Harbor, Interislander provided guidance for seasick travelers, suggesting remedies such as ginger, seabands, and sitting towards the back of the ship to minimize motion.
In the face of uncertainty and challenging weather conditions, the resilience and adaptability of passengers navigating the Cook Strait served as a testament to the human spirit in the midst of unpredictable circumstances. As travelers embarked on their journeys, the mix of excitement, anxiety, and determination highlighted the shared experience of venturing into the unknown while embracing the adventure that lay ahead.