Great ferry experience.
After a bit of google/web searching, we decided on Island Direct, both due to being a bit less expensive vs the competition ($150 NZD for 3 adults round trip) and it seemed to be smaller group/attendance no crowding.
Big plus- it's not first come first served, so you'll have a for sure spot on your respective time - huge bonus to not spend precious time queuing but instead enjoying the trip!
The booking was very easy. On day of the ferry we arrived 30 min prior to departure and got right (they recommend 10 min and this would have worked as well).
We gave our name at the boarding, no need to scan QR codes- but highly recommend saving them in case you need them.
The ferry was about half to a third full. Upper deck had plenty of space.
There was a a nice snack bar on board for coffee and treats.
The 0915 ferry gets you to Waiheke in plenty of time for most of the wine tours.
Highly recommend Island direct vs the competitors! read more