Abel Tasman Coastal Rowing

Trip Overview

A unique way to experience the Abel Tasman coastline.

Row the Abel Tasman coastline over multiple days in a traditional ocean rowing boat. Combine coastal rowing with beachfront lodge stays for a unique and immersive experience.

Best for

Active AdventurersSalty ExplorersFull ImmersionGuided Experiences

Book this trip

From

$1,495

Includes standard departure and return boat travel.

What's included

Beachfront accommodation

All meals, hot drinks & snacks

Luggage transfers

Boat transfers

Expert local knowledge (Guided)

Highlights

Traditional ocean rowing boat

Experience the coastline from a traditional ocean rowing boat, a different pace and perspective to kayaking or walking.

Abel Tasman coastline

Cover ground along the coastline that's normally only seen from a walking track or cruise boat.

Beachfront lodge stays

Nights at Wilsons' own beachfront lodges along the route.

Unique immersive experience

A distinctive way to experience the park, suited to those who've already done the classic walk or kayak trips.

Expert guides

Experienced guides lead the rowing and share knowledge of the coastline along the way.

Route map

Gallery

See the experience

Trip information

Plan your experience

Use this section to understand timing, what to bring, highlights and practical notes before you travel.

Arrival & departure options

Your journey begins with a complimentary coach transfer, with standard departures from Nelson beginning at 8am or 10.15am, and returning to Nelson by approximately 5.30–6pm. Earlier or later departures may be available depending on the season or your travel plans.

Flexible by nature

All walking is optional, with boat transfers available throughout your journey. Whether you're travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family spanning different ages and abilities, everyone can enjoy the experience at a pace that suits them.

Suggested itinerary

Arrive

Check in for the selected departure and confirm return timing before boarding.

Explore

Row the Abel Tasman coastline over multiple days in a traditional ocean rowing boat. Combine coastal rowing with beachfront lodge stays for a unique and immersive experience.

Return

Return details depend on the selected product, season and booking availability.

What to bring

Small day pack
Warm layer and waterproof jacket
Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
Drinking water
Swimwear and towel, if swimming
Lunch or onboard food plan
Camera or charged phone
Comfortable walking shoes where relevant

Destinations

Anchorage

Why Choose Wilsons

Trusted by guests since 1841.

Flexible by nature

Walking is always optional and boat transfers run throughout the day, so every guest can set their own pace, whatever their fitness or age.

Stay in the park, not just visit it

The only Great Walk operator that lets you stay inside the national park overnight while transporting you around it by boat, instead of shuttling you in and out each day.

Every detail taken care of

Accommodation, meals, luggage transfers and logistics are handled for you, so you can focus on being here rather than planning it.

Locals since 1841

Generations of family ownership and daily access to the park most operators only visit — local knowledge you can feel the whole way through.

FAQs