Aratere
With three separate observation decks, Aratere (Quick Path) is a great way to cross Cook Strait and soak in the Marlborough Sounds.
Making the most of your time on board
There's so much to see and do on board Aratere.
Ocean View Eatery
Enjoy a range of hot food, salads, kids' meals, desserts and drinks, with comfortable seating for the whole family.
Island Bar
Bright and spacious, Island Bar provides a comfortable setting to sit back and enjoy a wide selection of New Zealand's best regional wines and craft beers.
Premium Lounge
The Premium Lounge is Aratere's private room reserved for passengers 18 years and over. It's undoubtedly the most comfortable and luxurious way to cross Cook Strait.
Find out more about upgrading to our Premium Lounge.
Cinema
Sit back, relax and enjoy a movie. It's a great way to pass the time, especially if you're prone to seasickness. Movies, including the latest releases, are chosen daily and tickets are available at Hector's Shop.
Hector's Shop
Take time to browse our gift shop which offers a selection of souvenirs and mementos of your journey. You'll also find a range of travel essentials, magazines, and activities for children. And, while you're there, pick up a fresh, barista-made coffee.
Scenic viewing areas
When it comes to sitting in the sun and soaking up the incredible scenery, the outdoor spaces on Aratere cannot be beaten.
Wherever you are, keep your eyes peeled for the bird and sea life that call Cook Strait home. Spotting a pod of dolphins or a native sea bird will make your trip even more special.
Find out more about the wildlife you might be lucky enough to see during your crossing.
Travelling with children?
If you're travelling with young ones, there's plenty for them to do on Aratere.
Play Zone and Family Area
Relax in our family area while you watch the little ones enjoy Play Zone, specially designed for children aged 3 to 7 years.
A nursery, with bathroom facilities, a comfortable chair and changing station, is located adjacent to the family area.
Children's entertainers
If you're travelling during the New Zealand school holidays, you may find a magician, balloon artist or face painter on board to make the journey even more memorable.
Free activity books
Pick up a free activity book from Hector's Shop. It's packed full of activities and puzzles to keep the kids entertained.
Find out more about things for kids to see and do on Interislander.
Other facilities
Here are some of the other facilities available on Aratere to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible
Stay connected on board Aratere and in our terminals with free Wi-Fi.
Check your email, read the latest news, and post on social media. But, if you want to watch a movie or your favourite V show, we recommend you download it before you leave home.
Please note that Wi-Fi signal strength can be affected by weather, user volumes and distance from land-based cell towers.
Aratere has a dedicated outdoor smoking and vaping area near the middle of Deck 4. Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere else on the ship.
Aratere has a lift to take you from the vehicle deck to the main passenger area. There are hand rails and ramps onboard. There are accessible toilets - ask our crew for directions.