Crossing the Cook Strait in Style – Kaitaki Plus Lounge Review

After a long, but ridiculously beautiful, drive across the South Island I was ready for a break. The 3-hour+ ferry crossing of the Cook Strait provided just that. Doing so in style in the Interislander Kaitaki Plus lounge made it that much better. Here’s why:

Welcome to the Kaitaki Plus Lounge

Access to the Kaitaki Plus Lounge was a pleasant surprise. I was on my way to Wellington to find out why it is considered the “capital of cool” when I was handed wristbands by the Interislander ticket agent. “These are for the Kaitaki Plus lounge” said the ticket agent sensing the confusion. This pleasant surprise meant a full bar, catered lunch, fast Internet, and cozy couches. Although I was provided access to the Kaitaki Plus lounge complementary, the experience and comfort is more than worth the $45 price tag.

Food & Drinks

The food in the Interislander lounge was great – better than what I have experienced in most airline business class lounges around the world. Lunch included at tasty Thai curry, ravioli, and a selection of sandwiches. Then there was a small salad bar, selection of soft drinks in juices, and an espresso machine.

Then there was the bar. Everything you could think of including plenty of great New Zealand wine.

If that wasn’t enough, a snack tray of sushi and mini eclairs were put out a little later.

What Seasickness?

As we made our way to the open sea the 4-meter swells started to rock the boat. No worries in the Kaitaki Plus lounge. I had plenty of space to stretch out and plenty of sauvignon blanc to help me relax.

Those Views 

Then, of course, there are the views from crossing the scenic Cook Strait. Although available to all that travel on the Interislander, to be able to enjoy the scenery then head inside the Kaitaki Plus Lounge for a glass of wine and a comfortable seat was pretty great.

Cruise Comfortable

Thanks to the Interislander and their amazing lounge I arrived in Wellington relaxed, refreshed, and a little tipsy – but not from the waves. Again, the comfort and perks in the Kaitaki Plus lounge is worth the price and wouldn’t hesitate to enjoy it again.

 Interislander Kaitaki Plus Lounge Good to Know

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Although I was provided complimentary access to the Interislander Kaitaki Plus Lounge,
the experience, opinions, and the relaxing journey were my own.