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Interislander - Cook Strait Ferries

Freedom of the Ferries

Conquering the wild and unpredictable Cook Strait is a remarkable achievement for anyone who chooses to take on the challenge. That’s why, for over 30 years, Interislander has acknowledged these outstanding swimmers with a lifetime of free crossings.

DJI 0297 Interislander Aratere turning south around Dieffenbach Point RP105 Interislander Aratere Sunset photographer looking back RH1290 3

Why do people swim Cook Strait?

People choose to swim Cook Strait for a number of reasons: 

  • Personal
  • Physical
  • Psychological
  • Because “it’s there”

As one of the toughest and most challenging stretches of water in the world, Cook Strait presents the ultimate test for swimmers. There have been swimmers who wanted to be the fastest, the oldest, the youngest and even the slowest. There are those who wanted to cross it several times in one go, to do it in unfavourable conditions and in extreme temperatures. Whatever the reasons, the chance to triumph over this unpredictable stretch of sea remains one of the few real “Everest Challenges” left on the planet. 

Check out the list of successful swimmers of the Cook Strait Te Moana-o-Raukawa/Cook Strait » Marathon Swim » NZMSF 

Applying for 'Freedom of the Ferries'

If you have successfully conquered the Cook Strait, apply for your ‘Freedom of the Ferries’ membership by contacting marketing@interislander.co.nz  

Once your successful swim has been verified you will be sent your lifetime membership card.  

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