Cook Strait Ferries Megathread

[pete376403]

go here http://www.interislander.co.nz/ and book online. Easy as. If you have space, take your own tiedowns, the ones the I used Queens birthday weekend were soaked in cowshitty water and the latches all corroded.

Or you can try bluebridge - ferry facilities (bars, etc) are a little downmarket compared to interislander. On the ther hand one of the bluebridge boats has cabins if you want to get some shuteye on a proper bed (rather than on the floor or in a chair on Interislander boats)

[sefer]

^^ cabins are for truckies only. They use to leave them open, so it was possible to use them if not occupied, but in Dec when I came down they had started locking them.


Personally I prefer Bluebridge anyway. Cheaper (usually) easier to drive onto/park in, more room up stairs (you'll always get a seat, and find somewhere to sleep if you want), and they always play a couple of movies in the seating areas. They have ropes rather than ties, but they are easy enough to use, and there are heaps of them.

(PS.Book asap, it won;t get any cheaper)

[Stylo]

^^ cabins are for truckies only. They use to leave them open, so it was possible to use them if not occupied, but in Dec when I came down they had started locking them.


Personally I prefer Bluebridge anyway. Cheaper (usually) easier to drive onto/park in, more room up stairs (you'll always get a seat, and find somewhere to sleep if you want), and they always play a couple of movies in the seating areas. They have ropes rather than ties, but they are easy enough to use, and there are heaps of them.

(PS.Book asap, it won;t get any cheaper)


Appreciate the reply , Homework time tommorrow and must book soon ....

Tiedowns on a 'Busa ...........hmm, I'll work on it

[Stylo]

^^ cabins are for truckies only. They use to leave them open, so it was possible to use them if not occupied, but in Dec when I came down they had started locking them.


Personally I prefer Bluebridge anyway. Cheaper (usually) easier to drive onto/park in, more room up stairs (you'll always get a seat, and find somewhere to sleep if you want), and they always play a couple of movies in the seating areas. They have ropes rather than ties, but they are easy enough to use, and there are heaps of them.

(PS.Book asap, it won;t get any cheaper)

Late reply and thanks for the input, I'll take a couple of tie-downs ( is that enough? ) and we've booked into a Motel in Tawa . Ferrys scheduled for a 9.15pm arrival so....we hope they're on time, been a while for both of us . How long for the trip to Auck the next day ? Cheers.....

[duckonin]

Welly to Bombay, allow 8 1/2 -9 hours that would include two small stops on the way up for a snack.

[Stylo]

Welly to Bombay, allow 8 1/2 -9 hours that would include two small stops on the way up for a snack.

Just under 700kms, should'nt be a problem .........gonna be a longish day on the 'Busa ....look fwd to the ride, cheers

[dogsnbikes]

Late reply and thanks for the input, I'll take a couple of tie-downs ( is that enough? ) and we've booked into a Motel in Tawa . Ferrys scheduled for a 9.15pm arrival so....

work on a couple of tie-downs ,but if the weather is looking like shite take an extra for the arse end,also if you don't have one get a (oxford)handlebar bra it will keep the tiedowns of the Busa farings.......

[dogsnbikes]

^^ cabins are for truckies only. They use to leave them open, so it was possible to use them if not occupied, but in Dec when I came down they had started locking them.

Yes that is the case we do lock the truckies cabin's,but if your sailing on the Monte Stella your welcome too use the cabins in the same area that don't have door's......

[supremacy]

Im heading down to the south island via the interislander ferry. Are these safe to transport bikes? Do they have straps etc?

May be silly questions but just want to check if I need to know anything before committing :yes:

[dogsnbikes]

Im heading down to the south island via the interislander ferry. Are these safe to transport bikes? Do they have straps etc?

May be silly questions but just want to check if I need to know anything before committing :yes:

Always pays to take own tiedowns,and yes the ships are safe to transport your bike.any questions just ask an crew member ...which ferry are you booked on?

[supremacy]

Haven't booked yet but will probably go Bluebridge.

Is there a 'best way' to tie down a bike?

[dogsnbikes]

Haven't booked yet but will probably go Bluebridge.

Is there a 'best way' to tie down a bike?

Yes Go Bluebridge the crew will look after you?and will ensure your bike is secured thought the crossing....and there is no problems leaving your gear with your bike

[Quasi]

yep - he said - take your own tie downs. apart from that its a breeze

[Gremlin]

kb has threads already, do a search and read away...

[spajohn]

Haven't booked yet but will probably go Bluebridge.

Is there a 'best way' to tie down a bike?

Get in place, put it in gear, blocks front and rear if poss (you want to make sure it won't roll forward or back - if there are not enough blocks try and anchor it with a tie down instead), tension the straps so there is no weight on your side stand. Job done.

At least take a couple of tie downs...they do have them, but often run out or you will only have a couple, when three or four is ideal.

[Grubber]

Blue bridge rocks.
they have tie downs but aren't that easy to use for a noobie.
Take a couple of good ones of your own and lock it in gear then tie front fork to the side stand lightly then the off side put a bit more pressure on till they both tight. JOB DONE!

[Tryhard]

kb has threads already, do a search and read away...

Who said records are dead! or broken LOL

[trustme]

The wife & I are heading south in a couple of weeks. She will be on her nice shiny new Bonneville. Which ferry would be the easiest & least intimidating for her to ride on & off.???
I've used the rail ferries a fair bit mainly in trucks & the Bluebridge boat once but cant remember much about it

[sinfull]

The wife & I are heading south in a couple of weeks. She will be on her nice shiny new Bonneville. Which ferry would be the easiest & least intimidating for her to ride on & off.???
I've used the rail ferries a fair bit mainly in trucks & the Bluebridge boat once but cant remember much about it

Much of a muchness re the intimidating bit, neither are that scary, 2 weeks time the thing to worry about would be which one you'll get a booking on !

[junkmanjoe]

Depends on when in January Mike.....As I work for Bluebridge I can tell you that up until about the 13/14th of January most of our sailings are rather full although we do put on extra sailings over that busy period..

but being on a bike your chances are rather high and you don't have to worry about the peak season price hike either.....

dont offer kiwibiker discounts do ya heading south end of jan...

JMJ

[junkmanjoe]

why dont you just bend over and let every one shove one up ya?
We pay good money to travel on the ferry, way more per square foot than a car does and in that I expect to have decent tiedowns provided. Stand your ground and they will find some. otherwise take your own and let them get covered in cowshit and then put them in your bag and enjoy

well id rather tie my own bike down than some other tool to do it wrong and have ya bike fall over on the next bike. if you getting cow shit on your straps your parked in the wrong area.
all the time ive traveled on the ferrys iv never had shit on my straps...

[shafty]

The wife & I are heading south in a couple of weeks. She will be on her nice shiny new Bonneville. Which ferry would be the easiest & least intimidating for her to ride on & off.???
I've used the rail ferries a fair bit mainly in trucks & the Bluebridge boat once but cant remember much about it

Trustme, if WET the ramps can present a 'slip' hazard. I always start and warm up the bike before disembarking, Iignore the 'Don't start your engines' stuff - I want to putt down the ramp with a warm donk, and not have the rear wheel lock up on a wet steel ramp from a cold engine......

[trustme]

Thanks guys. Booked on Bluebridge. I'm probably being a bit over protective, We'll be fine.
Miss Nine is flying down to nanas in ChCH & we take her from there for a sedate 14 day tootle around the Sth. She is bouncing off the walls already.

[jellywrestler]

well id rather tie my own bike down than some other tool to do it wrong and have ya bike fall over on the next bike. if you getting cow shit on your straps your parked in the wrong area.
all the time ive traveled on the ferrys iv never had shit on my straps...
seems you've missed my point, they are not allowed to tie down your bike, simple I won't let anyone tie mine down, ever.
as for the shit, clearly you don't frequent the ferries very often as sometimes you have no choice but to park in an area on a particular boat that there is shit, quite simple.
I've done may a sailing and worked with the interislander customer manager not too long ago to provide suitable tie downs and tie down points.
He was, once I got to him, very good to work with etc.
Problem is he's now moved on and the standards are slipping

[Kickaha]

as for the shit, clearly you don't frequent the ferries very often as sometimes you have no choice but to park in an area on a particular boat that there is shit, quite simple.

I've done a lot of crossings on the bike over the last 25 years and haven't once had that problem, maybe they reserve a special park just for you :whistle:

[junkmanjoe]

seems you've missed my point, they are not allowed to tie down your bike, simple I won't let anyone tie mine down, ever.
as for the shit, clearly you don't frequent the ferries very often as sometimes you have no choice but to park in an area on a particular boat that there is shit, quite simple.
I've done may a sailing and worked with the interislander customer manager not too long ago to provide suitable tie downs and tie down points.
He was, once I got to him, very good to work with etc.
Problem is he's now moved on and the standards are slipping

no worries there, wasnt having a dig at you. one crossing on the bluebridge i tied my bike down help my mate tie his and while we where doing this, keeping an eye on the chap next to us tieing his bike,,,,:facepalm: decided to give a little advice on a better way,,,

I like the wheel in set up on the Arahura, the old bluebridge was basic and not very good tie down points..

not been on the new bigger bluebridge as of yet...have been told its quite nice..and a lot faster than the smaller ships.

JMJ

[_STAIN_]

go Bluebridge and take your own tie downs, only honda riders go interislander

[TimeOut]

The steeper steel ramps on the Bluebridge can be a bit intimidating if wet, though don't seem to slippery

[pritch]

I.e how do they tie them down??


Basically "they" don't. You do. Take your own tie downs and tape or cable ties to hold the front brake on. You'll also need something to remove that at the other end. Work it all out before you leave home.

There are a number of threads on KB about taking your bike on ferries. Some people seem to have used one or the other and then swear by that. I have tried several and prefer the Arahura. I'm going again in February but don't know what on as yet - I'm not doing the booking.

I keep the tie downs in a plastic bag when not in use, then if they do get wet or shitty it doesn't affect everything else in your luggage. It should go without saying but... The tie downs are best packed in the tank bag or otherwise
somewhere easy to get at. You don't want to be unpacking all your stuff to reach them. And sometimes there will be a stock truck right beside your bike.

Read the other threads, the search function is your friend.

[BrianST1300]

I'm riding my bike from Dunedin to Wellington and looking for tips re securely tying down my much loved Honda ST1300 on the ferry so it doesn't get mashed on the crossing.

They say bring your own tie downs. I assume this means they are passing the responsibility for any damage that may occur to us bike owners.

Is the centre stand or side stand best? I've heard that tying the front brake on is a good idea.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Cheers,
Brian

[oneofsix]

I'm riding my bike from Dunedin to Wellington and looking for tips re securely tying down my much loved Honda ST1300 on the ferry so it doesn't get mashed on the crossing.

They say bring your own tie downs. I assume this means they are passing the responsibility for any damage that may occur to us bike owners.

Is the centre stand or side stand best? I've heard that tying the front brake on is a good idea.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Cheers,
Brian

Tie it down to the side-stand, three points of hard contact, two of them rubber (your wheels). Don't forget to leave in gear.

[jellywrestler]

Tie it down to the side-stand, three points of hard contact, two of them rubber (your wheels). Don't forget to leave in gear.


Never leave it in gear. would you like any possible rocking motion on your bike direct onto your gearbox? no. Especially if it's already loaded as the bikes moved a bit when you're tying it down
as for tying down the bike butt it in against something and a couple of tie downs from the handlebars. rear tiedowns more to stop it dancing.

[240]

Hey there mate I travel a lot on the ferries with my bike.
Its best to bring your own tie downs because their ones are dirty shitty old things.

The Kaitaki is the best to travel on as you will be the first off the boat when you depart.
Don't use any stand at all just pull down the front nice and firm with one tie down on each bar and put one across the rear wheel to keep the arse from skipping and you will be all good.
Even in the roughest crossing you will be sweet. :niceone:

[KoroJ]

I also recommend one of these: http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/4/76/13223/ITEM/Canyon-Dancer-Bar-Harness-II.aspx

Easy to tie down and keep the strops away from the frairing....although the one I have has soft loops that go over the handle grips. I just got it at the local bike shop for about $30.

I use one strop off each handle bar and loop one over the rear seat and through the grip rails, shoving a rag under the high side pannier to prevent any chaffing.

[Gremlin]

I tie mine upright, two on the front, wheel chocked, one round the rear wheel to stop it swinging

[pete376403]

there are plenty of hard rubber wheel chocks available (nobody ever steals those, unlike all the "interislander" branded tiedowns which got stolen in the first week or so they were available.)

I go for the three-point (two wheels and sidestand) method and have never had a problem, despite most of my crossings being mid-winter (Brass Monkey)

[BMWST?]

I would only use sidestand if only had one or two tie downs otherwise it would be three ties downs,starting with the bike on the side stand but pulling it upright preferably chocked or against something solid to stop it moving,otherwise in gear and two ties downs at front and one at rear.Have a practise before you get to the ferry you might need strops of the handlebars to keep the tie downs away from fairings

[Rhys]

2x front handle bars and 1x rear wheel works on the back of the ute and will handle the worst crossing :scooter:

[marty]

they don't take any responsibilty anyway, so that's not the reason. buy some ratchet ties from mitre 10 - 4/$25. i use the sidestand and tie the handlebars, and over/around the rear wheel. has never moved.

[Pixie]

Never leave it in gear. would you like any possible rocking motion on your bike direct onto your gearbox?

Of course this is going to play havoc with a driveline designed to push a vehicle with a 505 kg GVWR with 115 hp

[BrianST1300]

Hey thanks everyone for your very helpful comments and suggestions.:yes:

[R6Genesis]

I also recommend one of these: http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/4/76/13223/ITEM/Canyon-Dancer-Bar-Harness-II.aspx

Easy to tie down and keep the strops away from the frairing....although the one I have has soft loops that go over the handle grips. I just got it at the local bike shop for about $30.

I use one strop off each handle bar and loop one over the rear seat and through the grip rails, shoving a rag under the high side pannier to prevent any chaffing.+++1 I have used those before they work great, I have transported bikes 1046km, stayed tight the whole way.

[Rajol]

Hi how would I secure my bike safely for the interislander?

Do I need to get anything?

my bike doesn't have a full stand just the leaning one.

[Gremlin]

Welcome to the search function:
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/141787-Cook-Strait-ferries-Seeking-advice-about-tie-downs-etc?highlight=interislander
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/135873-Interislander?highlight=interislander

Because it's a BFB (Big Fucking Boat) I'd caution against the use of a lasso. Wait for it to dock, and once you're directed by staff to go on, proceed forward.

[Str8 Jacket]

Wow, a new topic. It's such a shame that KB doesn't have a search function.

[pzkpfw]

Wow, a new topic. It's such a shame that KB doesn't have a search function.

Wow, a useful post hassling a newbie. Haven't seen that on KB before.

[dogsnbikes]

Hi how would I secure my bike safely for the interislander?

Do I need to get anything?



Yes This

257406



But really get a couple of tiedowns (From any bike shop or supercheap/repco shops) and don't be afraid to ask the Crew for assistance

[Str8 Jacket]

Wow, a useful post hassling a newbie. Haven't seen that on KB before.

OMG, look, a sarcasm smilie: :shake:

[caspernz]

From your local bikeshop, get a set of straps that go over the handlebars, and onboard just go with the flow of the crew. Oxford do a good set IMHO.

[James Deuce]

Because it's a BFB (Big Fucking Boat) I'd caution against the use of a lasso. Wait for it to dock, and once you're directed by staff to go on, proceed forward.

What he said.

Another salient point: If someone throws it at you, jump out of the way, DON'T try to catch it.

[James Deuce]

From your local bikeshop, get a set of straps that go over the handlebars, and onboard just go with the flow of the crew. Oxford do a good set IMHO.

I wouldn't go wasting money. The tie downs on the Interislander are perfectly good.

[James Deuce]

Wow, a useful post hassling a newbie. Haven't seen that on KB before.

You're dead right, the oldies are much worse at not bothering to use the search function.

[jellywrestler]

I wouldn't go wasting money. The tie downs on the Interislander are perfectly good.

last time i was on there (a couple of weeks back ) they'd reverted to providing rope to tie you bike down.
F ing useless I say.
While i can tie a rope no guarantees that the rider next to can

[PeteMun]

I used the interislander last month. They have bulk tie downs and just using your side stand is ok.

If the oceans rough you can always tie down the rear wheel. you will see how easy it is when you get there :niceone:

[mossy1200]

Ill lend you some tie downs and show you how to tie it down as long as you return straps by 24th feb as im going over on 25th

[JATZ]

I came across last week on the interislander, they had plenty of strops, most in pretty good nic too :yes: Don't tie your bike down on it's side stand :no:

[jellywrestler]

I used the interislander last month. They have bulk tie downs and just using your side stand is ok.

If the oceans rough you can always tie down the rear wheel. you will see how easy it is when you get there :niceone:

the interislander is a company, different Interislander boats have different facilities, where i was on the boat Kaitaki they had shitty rope with a hook on the end
per square foot you pay good money for a bike and get a $1 worth of rope. let them know you're not happy with what you pay for

[Kickaha]

After the first trip I did in 1986 I have always taken my own tiedowns and will continue to do so, sometimes there's good stuff to tie them down with and sometimes there isn't

[Howie]

the interislander is a company, different Interislander boats have different facilities, where i was on the boat Kaitaki they had shitty rope with a hook on the end
per square foot you pay good money for a bike and get a $1 worth of rope. let them know you're not happy with what you pay for

Interesting comment that as I went Kaitaki in late Jan they had plenty of near new tie downs, the Arahura on the other hand had next to none.

I know a few people who work on the interislander ferry's and they all say the problem is they put out x amount of new ones regularly, and quite a few of them disappear fairly quickly! I wonder where they go?

[BEAMER89]

l traveled on the Kaitaki last week and it was the first time the motorcycle parks were full 10-12? bikes and there were enough strops for everyones bikes. lve never had a problem threw lack off tiedowns.

[Paul in NZ]

If you are worried and if you have space to carry them then a set of motorcycle tiesdowns are well worth it. They have an extra tiedown loop that makes them easier to use. If your bike has a full fairing then one of the aforementioned straps that goes over the bars is a great idea. Practise or find a decent tie down point before you get on the boat - it saves time.

Put the bike on the side stand, fit the tie down to the 'high' side of the bike and pull it slightly tight. Fit the other side (we are talking front here) and flip up the stand. Tighten both down compressing the front suspension to hold tension (ask someone to hold the bike upright if you are worried. If you do it right the bike only needs 2 strops but because you might have luggage etc its good to be careful and ad a couple at the back too.

Main advantage of using your own gear is that its usually clean but in the past I have taken disposable gloves on leaving as their gear used to be so freakin manky even I didnt want to stick my hands into my gloves after.

Undo the two from strops 1st after putting down the stand.

DON"T tie it hard onto the stand - you can damage it

[jellywrestler]

If you are worried and if you have space to carry them then a set of motorcycle tiesdowns are well worth it.
Point is you pay good money to sail per square foot. Taking your own tiedowns doesn't stop the bike next to you, that's tied down with thin rope, falling on your bike.
As long as we bend over and take service like that up the arse they'll keep providing sub standard service.
There are customer service forms, find one and fill it out, eventually they will get the message and improve the service.

[Gremlin]

Point is you pay good money to sail per square foot. Taking your own tiedowns doesn't stop the bike next to you, that's tied down with thin rope, falling on your bike.
Get a bigger bike :msn-wink:

Effectively Interislander has had a large hike in their fares. Always used booking codes, because of some ride. Worked out to $152 return for the bike, which was good. Now it's 10% of the fare of the sailing you're taking, which makes it more like $200.... If Bluebridge had better sailing times (I=6 a day, B=3, maybe 4 - and crazy times) I'd jump ship (just about literally) :laugh:

[mossy1200]

Get a bigger bike :msn-wink:

Effectively Interislander has had a large hike in their fares. Always used booking codes, because of some ride. Worked out to $152 return for the bike, which was good. Now it's 10% of the fare of the sailing you're taking, which makes it more like $200.... If Bluebridge had better sailing times (I=6 a day, B=3, maybe 4 - and crazy times) I'd jump ship (just about literally) :laugh:

2 people return and bike $322.
I woulda gone on Bluebridge but they wanted charge for trailer and interislander said dont worry about it.

[skippa1]

3 weeks ago, arahura had bugga all tiedowns. Just get two decent ratchet tiedowns, strap her down on the side stand. Doesnt need to be tight, just secure. Either that or drain all fluids, lie it on a blanket then put a cargo net over it. get a number of cars to park on the edges of the net to hold it down:eek:

[240]

If you are worried and if you have space to carry them then a set of motorcycle tiesdowns are well worth it. They have an extra tiedown loop that makes them easier to use. If your bike has a full fairing then one of the aforementioned straps that goes over the bars is a great idea. Practise or find a decent tie down point before you get on the boat - it saves time.

Put the bike on the side stand, fit the tie down to the 'high' side of the bike and pull it slightly tight. Fit the other side (we are talking front here) and flip up the stand. Tighten both down compressing the front suspension to hold tension (ask someone to hold the bike upright if you are worried. If you do it right the bike only needs 2 strops but because you might have luggage etc its good to be careful and ad a couple at the back too.

Main advantage of using your own gear is that its usually clean but in the past I have taken disposable gloves on leaving as their gear used to be so freakin manky even I didnt want to stick my hands into my gloves after.

Undo the two from strops 1st after putting down the stand.

DON"T tie it hard onto the stand - you can damage it

yep this is exactly correct in my opinion.:niceone:

[Paul in NZ]

Point is you pay good money to sail per square foot. Taking your own tiedowns doesn't stop the bike next to you, that's tied down with thin rope, falling on your bike.
As long as we bend over and take service like that up the arse they'll keep providing sub standard service.
There are customer service forms, find one and fill it out, eventually they will get the message and improve the service.

Yes I agree with you and indeed I have complained. What happens is that they put some more tie downs there (I've even seen motorcycle ones) which either get stolen or become utterly filthy in a matter of days due to the environment.

As for other bikers - you really can't seem to win. I had one utter cunt ondo MY tie down so he could fit his (utterly not required to attach his if he had thought about it for a second)) and then not do mine back up again. Found my bike wobbling about. He was drunk and amazingly abusive when he left with his slag pillion and drop kick mates (happy to take him on 1 for 1 but odds not in my favour) so my pillion *555'd the cunts.

When other people are involved its always a lottery once we got some minor damage when some muppet came in after us and thought the crew would tie it down and just walked off. He was greatly amazed to find his bike laying down on my mates bike....

[kiwigjt]

Yes I agree with you and indeed I have complained. What happens is that they put some more tie downs there (I've even seen motorcycle ones) which either get stolen or become utterly filthy in a matter of days due to the environment.

As for other bikers - you really can't seem to win. I had one utter cunt ondo MY tie down so he could fit his (utterly not required to attach his if he had thought about it for a second)) and then not do mine back up again. Found my bike wobbling about. He was drunk and amazingly abusive when he left with his slag pillion and drop kick mates (happy to take him on 1 for 1 but odds not in my favour) so my pillion *555'd the cunts.

When other people are involved its always a lottery once we got some minor damage when some muppet came in after us and thought the crew would tie it down and just walked off. He was greatly amazed to find his bike laying down on my mates bike....

Geez with stories like this it is difficult to push yourself to make the trip with a bike. I have done it a couple of times and had no issues but maybe I was just lucky.
A couple of halfway decent tie downs are not to costly, don't take up alot of room and by all accounts can be quite useful if the ferry has nothing on board.

[MD]

Wellington has such calm weather all year, I doubt you would need to secure a bike at all.

If by chance it is rough, then usually the ties provided will do. I always carry two small ties with me, just in case.

Personally I'd leave the side stand down and would never use a centre stand. Better to have the rear wheel firm on the deck and in gear to reduce movement.
I secure the high side first. Then the sidestand side but it doesn't need to be super tight and compressing the suspension. What's going to happen as the boat rolls? The rope/tie will gently tighten as the bike moves a whole cm at most. Hardly causing armageddon.

[oneofsix]

Wellington has such calm weather all year, I doubt you would need to secure a bike at all.
.

You need to secure it against the bump as you cross the entrance to the sounds and the high speed turns. :Punk:

[Conquiztador]

- I always stay until they want me out from the area so I know that nobody has taken my tiedown or that someone coming late has parked close to my bike.
- Always have 2 tiedowns of the quick release type as the ratchet ones take too much space and are a pain to fit. As a result I know that I have good tiedowns.
- Front wheel in the channel and tiedowns to handlebars and you are done. If you end up on the flat deck then use one of the (normally) black rubber blocks against front wheel and same applies.
- I never use side or central stand. If stand fails then your bike will be loose.
Apart from that; common sense and all will be well.

[skippa1]

- - I never use side or central stand. If stand fails then your bike will be loose.

Really?:shit: and if you dont use the stand and the strap fails?:blink:

[mossy1200]

Im thinking search on tard me for tie down bulk lots.

[skippa1]

Im thinking search on tard me for tie down bulk lots.

Thats it! you need both stands down though (if you have two)and you need to wait until the vehicle deck is clear unless someone loosens one of the straps...:laugh:

[TimeOut]

When other people are involved its always a lottery once we got some minor damage when some muppet came in after us and thought the crew would tie it down and just walked off. He was greatly amazed to find his bike laying down on my mates bike....



Had the same happen to us.
Guy parked his Harley climbed off and muttered as he walked away, I hope they tie her down well.:shit: Lucky we were still there and called him back.

[oneofsix]

Had the same happen to us.
Guy parked his Harley climbed off and muttered as he walked away, I hope they tie her down well.:shit: Lucky we were still there and called him back.

I blame the edumacation system! They do still have the conditions on the tickets and the signs on the ferries that say you are responsible for tying down your own bike, don't they? So it must be lack of reading ability. Confusing in new situations, stress, excitement, worry, bursting bladder, the call of the on board bar etc wouldn't cause you to miss these obvious notices :innocent: :whistle:
I was lucky the ferry had the strops and there were bikes each side being tied down at the same time but in future I carry a set of my own in case and will wait until my bike is surrounded by other tied down bikes, after all the bar doesn't open until the ferry has left the dock.

[Premature Accelerato]

So how about someone who has a decent camera, the next time they take their bike on the ferry, gets some photos of what they can expect to have to deal with. I know ,I know, why dont I do it myself but to be honest there have been a few times that I have thought of taking the crossing but when I have asked the guys at the terminal about what is provide and how its done etc etc, they have been somewhat vague.

[pritch]

So how about someone who has a decent camera, the next time they take their bike on the ferry, gets some photos of what they can expect to have to deal with.

Nice idea but no solution, circumstances vary, even on the same ship. The Arahura has bike specific tie down points near the bow, but last year I was with a group and they directed us to a chain aft. The idea being to hook the tie downs to the chain.

On the Bluebridge ship I sailed on there was nothing, you just had to find your own solution. Others KBers had different experiences.

Take your own gear and be ready for anything.

Afterthoughts: It should go without saying, but pack so the bike bra, tie downs etc are accessible; in a tank bag, or on top of whatever else is in the pannier.

Keep them in plastic bags so that if you do end up next to a stock truck and they get covered in shite, you can put them back in the bag without covering the rest of your kit in ordure.

Pray for a smooth sailing, most of them are but...

[Paul in NZ]

So how about someone who has a decent camera, the next time they take their bike on the ferry, gets some photos of what they can expect to have to deal with. I know ,I know, why dont I do it myself but to be honest there have been a few times that I have thought of taking the crossing but when I have asked the guys at the terminal about what is provide and how its done etc etc, they have been somewhat vague.

If you can tie your bike down to a trailer its pretty much the same as that. Just use common sense.

[oneofsix]

If you can tie your bike down to a trailer its pretty much the same as that. Just use common sense.

I ride my bike. I always feel a little sad when I see a bike being hauled on a trailer or stuffed inside a van :sunny:

[Paul in NZ]

I ride my bike. I always feel a little sad when I see a bike being hauled on a trailer or stuffed inside a van :sunny:

Yes but occasionally they break or are unregistered trail bikes or race bikes or are non runners purchased of trade me....

[Gremlin]

So how about someone who has a decent camera, the next time they take their bike on the ferry, gets some photos of what they can expect to have to deal with. I know ,I know, why dont I do it myself but to be honest there have been a few times that I have thought of taking the crossing but when I have asked the guys at the terminal about what is provide and how its done etc etc, they have been somewhat vague.
Couple of pics in this blog: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/entry.php/2382-Riding-for-Work-%E2%80%93-3rd-times-the-charm-%2808-12-2011%29

As stated however, each boat varies. One of the Interislander boats has bike specific grooves near the bow and you face forward. One (yeah, I can never remember which is which) you usually park across the ship in the middle (shots in blog). Sometimes they run chains down to hook into, other times you go into the small D rings welded to the deck.

[jellywrestler]

Sometimes they run chains down to hook into, other times you go into the small D rings welded to the deck.
The chains are a cunt simply
you tie your bike down walk away and the next rider tightens their tiedowns bingo yours are loose again.
the D rings on said boat are about crankshaft position hard to tie properly; why couldn't they be forward of the handlebars so you can tie from there?

[dogsnbikes]

The chains are a cunt simply
you tie your bike down walk away and the next rider tightens their tiedowns bingo yours are loose again.
the D rings on said boat are about crankshaft position hard to tie properly; why couldn't they be forward of the handlebars so you can tie from there?

Chains are generally used when there is more bikes than bike parks,
If you find that the deck D's are inline with your crank,they were designed for a single strap tie down over the seat,

[Berg]

For us, we take our own Aerofast tie downs (4 per bike) and always book the Kaitaki which has good Vs to hold your front wheel. They have 12 positions for bikes and we have only once seen them all full.
Pre test your stropping technique as I found before hand the Z would need short extensions to reach under the radiator shrouds without doing any damage.
If unsure, ask. Riders are usually willing to give you a hand.:innocent:

[GPS MAN]

The Blue Bridge only had rope on my last crossing..Glad I took my tie downs:shifty:

[mossy1200]

So how about someone who has a decent camera, the next time they take their bike on the ferry, gets some photos of what they can expect to have to deal with. I know ,I know, why dont I do it myself but to be honest there have been a few times that I have thought of taking the crossing but when I have asked the guys at the terminal about what is provide and how its done etc etc, they have been somewhat vague.


im going over on 24th ill take photos.I always try park between expensive bikes they tend to be more carefull tying theirs down.

[dogsnbikes]

I always try park between expensive bikes they tend to be more carefull tying theirs down.

or they have no idea how too tie them down

had a guy yesterday morning heading to the Hog rally,had no idea where too even start,got him sorted,despite his concerns that the parts used on his bikes for lashing points may come off,how ever I did comfort him by informing him that the chinese are pretty good weilders now:laugh: don't think the rest of the group where happy with said remark :lol:

[Berg]

or they have no idea how too tie them down
Love t

had a guy yesterday morning heading to the Hog rally,had no idea where too even start,got him sorted,despite his concerns that the parts used on his bikes for lashing points may come off,how ever I did comfort him by informing him that the chinese are pretty good weilders now:laugh: don't think the rest of the group where happy with said remark :lol:

Love it:killingme

[Ocean1]

or they have no idea how too tie them down

Yup, you can spot the guys that've never had dirt bikes. I can't remember a time when I haven't helped someone tie their bike down on a ferry.

Also, the last three times I've been forced to ignore vehicle deck crew instructions, some of them have no idea whatsoever.

[Gremlin]

Also, the last three times I've been forced to ignore vehicle deck crew instructions, some of them have no idea whatsoever.
They mean well, but yeah, sometimes they refused to use chains on the Interislander and I pulled them out anyway. Their priority is cars, trucks, getting away on time. My priority is keeping my bike safe.

Same with me, last few times I've crossed I've always helped at least one person get their bike strapped down.

[sootie]

A small group of us are looking at using this there & back over the next few months. I have not used the interislander in a long time, and never with a bike before. Thought I might be able to pick up a few tips from those who have ventured south (or north!) before.
* Any thoughts on reasonable accomodation handy to terminal either end?
* how much advance booking is really needed for say 6 bikes? (ie do they squeeze in easily anytime?)
* travelling in the wee small hours - any advantages?
* bring your own tiedowns is suggested ... ???
* any security issues for packs etc?
* any helpful tips re fare packages or whatever - thanks<label for="rb_iconid_17"></label>

[FJRider]

There has been numerous threads on the subject. Well worth using the search button.

How far into the mainland are you heading ... ???

Depending on the departure time ... makes accomodation location an issue. You really need to be at the ferry when they start loading. Most companys let bikes on first if they are ready.

Depending what event you may be attending ... and bookings are usually for the Burt Munroe are heavy for that period. 6 bikes would be worth making an attempt to book.

Bring your own tiedowns ... then you know they will work.

Security is seldom an issue. Bloody cameras everywhere ... deck hands always about.

Most of the ship companys have an 0800 number ... let your fingers do the walking ...

[sootie]

There has been numerous threads on the subject. Well worth using the search button.

How far into the mainland are you heading ... ???

Depending on the departure time ... makes accomodation location an issue. You really need to be at the ferry when they start loading. Most companys let bikes on first if they are ready.

Depending what event you may be attending ... and bookings are usually for the Burt Munroe are heavy for that period. 6 bikes would be worth making an attempt to book.

Bring your own tiedowns ... then you know they will work.

Security is seldom an issue. Bloody cameras everywhere ... deck hands always about.


Most of the ship companys have an 0800 number ... let your fingers do the walking ...

Thanks FJ.
North Cape last year, the Bluff this year I think. No big deal really, as I come from Dunedin originally. We are not attending anything in particular, but are gradually lining up a sequence of places we would like to visit.
Several of us are already carrying Gold Cards & a bit ancient for this, but we feel an urge to grow old disgracefully!
A couple of useful points there - thanks<label for="rb_iconid_7">http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/images/icons/icon7.png</label>

[BMWST?]

Thanks FJ.
North Cape last year, the Bluff this year I think. No big deal really, as I come from Dunedin originally. We are not attending anything in particular, but are gradually lining up a sequence of places we would like to visit.
Several of us are already carrying Gold Cards & a bit ancient for this, but we feel an urge to grow old disgracefully!
A couple of useful points there - thanks<label for="rb_iconid_7">http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/images/icons/icon7.png</label>

might pay to give the feeries a ring...if you book 6 bikes you will prolly be eligible for a discount anyway

this place (http://www.downtownbackpackers.co.nz/) is only about 2-3k from the iterislander and virtually straight across the road from the bluebridge.Not sure how you would get on with the bikes there tho.

[jellywrestler]

* bring your own tiedowns is suggested ... ???

you pay good money per square metre, much more than a car you should get tie downs provided; if let them know

[sootie]

you pay good money per square metre, much more than a car you should get tie downs provided; if let them know

As was commented - if you bring your own, you know they are going to work!

[Gremlin]

There... no searching required... read the thread.

[rustic101]

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0075-1.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0076.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0077.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0078.jpg

[mylodon]

I shouldn't admit this but... i was new the the country and made a hasty weekend plan to go over by nelson.... got on the ferry in wellington, some horrible hour like 5am. parked the bike (put the kickstand down) and left it...!

Not sure what I was thinking there.

When I returned to the garage bay in Picton - i found it had been magically tied down by ferry fairies.

Later i realized I packed a tent but no sleeping bag.

It was still a good trip. On future trips I made sure and tie down well - but I always used the provided straps, never a problem. Also I started bringing a sleeping bag.

[ontoit]

The few times i have been on the interislanders tie downs were provided. The last time, 8 months ago, "ship unknown" there were good tie downs and there was a rack for the front wheel to slot into, right next to the stairs. Great service by the ferry guys too.

[Winston001]

The general rule for bikers is to carry your own tie-downs. You may not need them or you may find the ship's ones have been used by other people who boarded before you. Or...you may find tie-downs covered in effluent are not to your taste. Doesn't bother me personally but I grew up on a farm. I notice others are reluctant to pick up wet green straps.

[FJRider]

I shouldn't admit this but... i was new the the country and made a hasty weekend plan to go over by nelson.... got on the ferry in wellington, some horrible hour like 5am. parked the bike (put the kickstand down) and left it...!

Not sure what I was thinking there.

When I returned to the garage bay in Picton - i found it had been magically tied down by ferry fairies.

Later i realized I packed a tent but no sleeping bag.

It was still a good trip. On future trips I made sure and tie down well - but I always used the provided straps, never a problem. Also I started bringing a sleeping bag.

I did similar once ... except nobody tied it down. It was a smooth sailing though ...

In the days when only short lengths of rope were available on the ferries ... :2thumbsup

[Laava]

Just done the bass straight crossing to tassie and you are not allowed to tie your own bike down for ins purposes. Its great! Just hop off, leave it in gear and go to the bar!

[Flip]

I would not trust the NZ rail staff to know how to tie down a bike properly.

A short while ago they fucked a wheel on my Lotus sticking a big hook through the spoke on the mag wheel. What was even funnier was they touched the damage up with silver paint, (the wheels are a bronze pearl colour) which stuck out like dogs balls.

[duckonin]

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0075-1.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0076.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0077.jpg

http://i1165.photobucket.com/albums/q584/Rustic101/IMG_0078.jpg

Had another bike been beside you your front tie-down would not of looked like that...:msn-wink:

[Kickaha]

A short while ago they fucked a wheel on my Lotus sticking a big hook through the spoke on the mag wheel. What was even funnier was they touched the damage up with silver paint, (the wheels are a bronze pearl colour) which stuck out like dogs balls.

I dont think I've ever seen a car tied down, why were they doing it?

[FJRider]

To stop them rolling around into their freight trains. It scratches their paintwork ...

[werwolf]

Nice to hear your comments, Im new to this game, had bikes before but never travelled over on ferry. My concern is this, My bike is large and heavy ( BMW R1150 RT ) Its way more stable on its center stand than it is on the side stand.
I have the tie downs, and the soft loopy things to go round the frame. BMW warn against tying to handle bars, They are cast aluminium and Im told some have cracked in rough seas ??
I can get good tying points on the front forks and at the back I can access directly onto the frame, Im just not sure about this side stand thing, The bike weighs 250kg +
Anyone with a big BMW done this ???
I could sure use the advice

[Conquiztador]

Nice to hear your comments, Im new to this game, had bikes before but never travelled over on ferry. My concern is this, My bike is large and heavy ( BMW R1150 RT ) Its way more stable on its center stand than it is on the side stand.
I have the tie downs, and the soft loopy things to go round the frame. BMW warn against tying to handle bars, They are cast aluminium and Im told some have cracked in rough seas ??
I can get good tying points on the front forks and at the back I can access directly onto the frame, Im just not sure about this side stand thing, The bike weighs 250kg +
Anyone with a big BMW done this ???
I could sure use the advice

I have travelled with BMW K100, K1 + other big bikes. I never tie the bike against the side stand. I use side stand to keep bike standing while I get sorted, but then tighten the tie-downs on both sides so she stands up straight. My logic is this: A side stand is made to carry the bikes weight. Once you tie a bike down and pull against the side stand it puts more pressure on the side stand than it was designed for. You could even brake it (or bend it).

I would not use a centre stand when tying down a bike on a ferry. Same reason as above: If the centre stand would give up your tiedowns would become loose.

My recommendation is to use 2 tiedowns ( but if you want to be really sure use 2 front and 2 rear), front wheel against wheel fitting and rubber block against back wheel. Pull both front ones evenly so bike is hard up against wheel fitting. Then tighten up both rear ones if you use them.

Never had a bike go loose on me.

[Ocean1]

Yep, as above. The bike's suspension tensioned against a pair of tie-downs on the bars or upper trippleclamps has never let me down. My only issue is sometimes the guy next door, if his bike's in the process of being tied down in a way that puts mine at risk I'll offer to help.

[BMWST?]

i find it difficult to beleive that tie downs could break your handlebars.You dont put that much tension on them.If like some BMWs your sidestand retracts as soon as the weight comes of it i might enlist the help of someone else to either tighten the straps whilst you hold the bike or visa versa

[werwolf]

I havnt heard of it happening in NZ , but the european sites all mention it happening. I know that some of their ferry trips can be very rough. They say that it can happen when the ship rises then drops and a sudden force is put onto the handle bars.
My problem is that on this bike, because of the fairing , there are not may places you can attach a tie down too.
The pannier rack is plastic, and most of the frame is inside the fairing .
I guess my main concern is which if any stand to use ? Im not very comfortable with the idea of no stand, just the tie downs

[Ocean1]

I guess my main concern is which if any stand to use ? Im not very comfortable with the idea of no stand, just the tie downs

Dirt bikes have been tied to trailers that way for yonks, and a trailer leaps about far more than a ferry. At least they do in NZ.

Honestly, dude, tiedowns are rated at a couple of ton each, if your bike's trying to escape that hard what's either stand going to do?

[Ocean1]

BMW warn against tying to handle bars, They are cast aluminium and Im told some have cracked in rough seas ??
I can get good tying points on the front forks and at the back I can access directly onto the frame, Im just not sure about this side stand thing, The bike weighs 250kg +
Anyone with a big BMW done this ???
I could sure use the advice

Well, you got me looking, and while I ride with several GS's regularly and I've never seen this done, it's the way BMW recommend it's done.

http://www.ascycles.com/pdf/Tiedown2.pdf

I don't see a problem with that, as long as the tiedowns are spread sideways far enough, as shown. The fron suspension isn't compressed this way, but that's neither here nor there as long as the tiedowns are good and snug. And I still wouldn't put the stand down.

[werwolf]

LOL. Thanks Ocean, thats a pdf I hadnt seen but it makes it very clear. The tie down points they use are the ones I had thought would work. I will put my reservations aside and do as suggested . I will not use either stand.
Thanks guys, This has been so helpful.
I guess it shows how well this site can work .
Merry Xmas everyone. Safe riding . :2thumbsup:scooter::

[_Shrek_]

LOL. Thanks Ocean, thats a pdf I hadnt seen but it makes it very clear. The tie down points they use are the ones I had thought would work. I will put my reservations aside and do as suggested . I will not use either stand.
Thanks guys, This has been so helpful.
I guess it shows how well this site can work .
Merry Xmas everyone. Safe riding . :2thumbsup:scooter::

don't use your side stand other than to help you tie your bike down, then put it up that way it wont break in the rough, & don't leave it in gear, coz if it starts to move forward & back it can start causing a lip in the bore, on folks to tie down as per Ocean's pdf :niceone:

[werwolf]

My mate suggested I use a velcro strap to put the front brake on ? does this seem a good idea ?

[_Shrek_]

My mate suggested I use a velcro strap to put the front brake on ? does this seem a good idea ?

you don't need to put ya front brake on as it's up against the bulk head so it can't go any where & if it's out on the deck you have chocks

[Ocean1]

My mate suggested I use a velcro strap to put the front brake on ? does this seem a good idea ?

Nah, like Shrek says the tiedowns are angled forward to pull the bike down and forward against the bulkhead, it can't go anywhere and I don't much like the idea of leaving the brake system pressured up like that. Must admit I don't like the rubber chocks they supply, the deck's often wet and then the chocks don't grip too well. If that's all that's on offer I've tied the rear wheel back to something to balance the fwd pull of the front tiedowns.

[NordieBoy]

you don't need to put ya front brake on as it's up against the bulk head so it can't go any where & if it's out on the deck you have chocks

Mmmmm....
Chocs....

[pritch]

My mate suggested I use a velcro strap to put the front brake on ? does this seem a good idea ?

That'd work. I used duct tape, it helps to have a knife handy at the end of the crossing. With the bike in gear and the front brake on the wheels are more reliably locked than with chocks. But I use them too, it can't hurt. On my favourite ferry the bike is not against the bulkhead but is tied down to four Ds on the deck.

[_Shrek_]

Mmmmm.... Chocs....

mmmmmmm those tooooou :rolleyes:

[swbarnett]

I don't much like the idea of leaving the brake system pressured up like that.
I have a "GripLock" that does that every time I put it on. Doesn't seem to have caused any grief with the brake system.

[Ocean1]

I have a "GripLock" that does that every time I put it on. Doesn't seem to have caused any grief with the brake system.

And it shouldn't, nonethless I've seen master cylinders leak under prolonged pressure.

[BMWST?]

Kaitake and Aratere were ok I had my own tie downs (3) two in front 1 at back bike in gear Aratere I arranged things so the front wheel was hard against bulkhead but I have lots of places to attach tie downs both sailings were so smooth the main stand would have been cool or side stand and in gear/chocks

[Paul in NZ]

Well Vicki and I have booked us and bike to head down to ChCh for the TOMCC 20th get together.

12th July - Winter? Christchurch??? WTF were we thinking back then or perhaps we were all made of sterner stuff...

Anyway - we are on the 2:30am sailing but they allow you onto the boat 10pm the night before so we have booked a cabin where we will hopefully sleep the trip away until the 6am arrival. Then its off the boat, breakfast and off we go. Sounds a lot better than the usual mid day arrival.

Anyone else used the cabins on bluebridge before? Any good?

ps -= the heated grips seem to work thank goodness...

[Trade_nancy]

I've trolled this megathread and gleened some good tips. I'm heading over for the Burt Munro - virgin for bike on ferry. I tried setting up tie downs on the bike in the garage last night (Sprint GT) and it is an arse of a job to avoid fairing damage. Can't seem to use the bars/risers and tried from the lower triple tree - that hits fairing too.
So I scouted around for OXFORD Wonder Bar Straps - which nestle on the bar ends and would solve this problem. Can't buy these anywhere at the moment. One on Tardme - but he hasn't replied to me to say he has stock.
So - if anyone has these and wants to sell - let me know - otherwise - I thought of a workaround by making my own. Just wrapped a length of flat 1" tie down around each grip and made a loop at each end. See the pic.
OK - anyone see why this would be a regrettable decision on my part? Only thing I noted MIGHT need changing - is the throttle side so that wrap pulls it shut and not open..but with it looped the way I have it, I can give it a good yank and it doesn't affect the throttle.

[Gremlin]

Your other option is to tie down on the fork clamps from underneath, which allows the suspension to continue working.

[shafty]

Hey Trade Nancy

Check out www.aerofast.co.nz - look under 'motorcycle' (obviously) - that's what I got and works great

At the time - a few years ago - none of the bike shops had them in stock so they agreed to sell me one direct

Good luck

Shafty :eek:

[Trade_nancy]

Your other option is to tie down on the fork clamps from underneath, which allows the suspension to continue working.
Tried that - has to come down and out the side fairing on a nasty angle which would cause at least rubbing.
HOWEVER.....I just got a phone call from friendly Honda shop who found a complete bar end harness with straps and caribs for $59 and I talked him down to $49. Tried em 5 mins ago - ripper.

[Trade_nancy]

Hey Trade Nancy

Check out www.aerofast.co.nz - look under 'motorcycle' (obviously) - that's what I got and works great

At the time - a few years ago - none of the bike shops had them in stock so they agreed to sell me one direct

Good luck

Shafty :

Thanks Shafty - just had a look and it seems they have a good assortment but was lacking in pics to see what was what. But as I just mentioned in other posting reply - I managed to get a nice set at City Honda in town. Guy there was a pretty obliging and did some running around to find me some.
Who said Honda was gay...

Edit - dunno where that angry red face came from - but can't delete him...

[MD]

Never had a problem just relying on the tie downs provided by the InterIslander ferries for years of regular sailings now. I tend to attach to the footpegs and one handlebar, usually the high side. That Cook Strait is always calm, just like a mirror to look at all year.

Bluebridge- does anyone know if they provide decent ropes/tie downs? Had to book on the BB for this summer with all the Interislander sailings cancelled. Not used them in many years.

[Gremlin]

MD, both companies advise you to carry your own tie downs. You might strike it lucky and they have some, but I wouldn't trust them. Seen plenty fail once some pressure was applied to the cam buckle.

[Trade_nancy]

Never had a problem just relying on the tie downs provided by the InterIslander ferries for years of regular sailings now. I tend to attach to the footpegs and one handlebar, usually the high side. That Cook Strait is always calm, just like a mirror to look at all year.

Bluebridge- does anyone know if they provide decent ropes/tie downs? Had to book on the BB for this summer with all the Interislander sailings cancelled. Not used them in many years.
I assume you mean that you are leaving your bike on the lean stand and not lifting it up vertical on straps..just securing it on the lean? I intend having it upright and off the stand..leaving stand down. So for that - no matter whose tie downs I use - still can't attach to bars without straps over the bar ends. Seems there is a division of opinion on that - leave bike leaning or lift up and brace it. I guess it is a case of - both are right - if done right.

[shafty]

Hmmmmm strongly recommend leaving bike leaning on its side stand......

[Trade_nancy]

Hmmmmm strongly recommend leaving bike leaning on its side stand......

Still thinking on it.....get mixed opinions on this issue...personally I feel it seems a safer option on the stand as long as not pulled down hard on that side to stress the stand. But many people on this thread have said NO...I'm thinking I'll not be able to decide till; I'm onboard and spy on how others have done it.

[Coldrider]

Always have mine upright off the stand, I take a couple of cotton rags to pack under the tiedowns/buckles where they cross the upper fairing, been doin' it that way for 25 years. Also quite often the bikes get parked in the centre of nowhere. Use a rubber chock if available to pull the front down on, or the rear wheel will have to be tied down, and the front pulled down against the restrained rear.

[BMWST?]

Just back from a strait crossing on bluebridge,some odd tie downs,lots of specially made up short cords,lotd of rubber chocks,st Regina lots like interislander ,straitsman quite oddly set up,nice though,bedt food on the strait though and slow(4 hours)

[Winston001]

Completely OT but how the hell can a monstrous great ship lose a propeller? Somebody forgot to tighten the Allen bolt? :eek:

[Coldrider]

Completely OT but how the hell can a monstrous great ship lose a propeller? Somebody forgot to tighten the Allen bolt? :eek:snapped shaft, 7000kw, would have rotated out of the bearings at a great rate of knots. I wonder how far it actually travelled unguided. They would save a lot of time and money if they find it.

[awayatc]

Luckily the skandi Hercules is fully equiped for the job with ROV and all the gismos..
and she is in New Zealand at the moment..
Just around the corner of Taranaki...

[Winston001]

Thats interesting, is a propeller so valuable that it would be worth having a ROV search for it?

Anyone know the full story on the Aratere?

[BMWST?]

Thats interesting, is a propeller so valuable that it would be worth having a ROV search for it?

Anyone know the full story on the Aratere?


aprt from this...no

Disruption Update 20 November 2013Aratere Update
Aratere's starboard shaft broke on 05 November and the propeller was lost.
Interislander is in the process of organising a trial to use ultrasonic equipment to test the remaining port shaft and propeller. We hope that this will assist the regulators in allowing Aratere to sail for repair or be used as a single shaft freight ship for a short period until she can be fully repaired.
Yesterday our technical management staff and some specialists visited a NZ engineering firm who have provided a proposal to supply a replacement shaft for Aratere. This proposal will be considered alongside options for supply from overseas. It is great to see Kiwi ingenuity helping to assist us to find the quickest possible solution for Aratere.

Replacement Ship
Interislander is currently looking at the options around potentially bringing an interim replacement ship into New Zealand whilst the Aratere is being repaired. Two prospective charter ships have been inspected overseas and we await the reports.
Two more ships will be inspected and their reports completed before the end of the week.
If it is possible to introduce an interim replacement ship, the earliest this would be in NZ is mid-January.

[MD]

I assume you mean that you are leaving your bike on the lean stand and not lifting it up vertical on straps..just securing it on the lean? I intend having it upright and off the stand..leaving stand down. So for that - no matter whose tie downs I use - still can't attach to bars without straps over the bar ends. Seems there is a division of opinion on that - leave bike leaning or lift up and brace it. I guess it is a case of - both are right - if done right.

I've taken my bikes on the ferries more times than you've had [insert something you have had a lot OK] I carry my own tie downs but have rarely needed to get them out. It's far quicker to use the InterIs. ones at the ready. Even bikes I've owned with a centre stand I still used the side stand. It just looks far more secure to me.

Bikes can slide around on the centre stand because it's metal on greasy metal floor. Whereas the side stand keeps the rear tire in contact, far grippier.

[BMWST?]

I've taken my bikes on the ferries more times than you've had [insert something you have had a lot OK] I carry my own tie downs but have rarely needed to get them out. It's far quicker to use the InterIs. ones at the ready. Even bikes I've owned with a centre stand I still used the side stand. It just looks far more secure to me.

Bikes can slide around on the centre stand because it's metal on greasy metal floor. Whereas the side stand keeps the rear tire in contact, far grippier.

and by your own logic having the bike vertical with no side stand makes it even grippier.I use two at the front bike in gear and one of theirs on the back and use a chock too if there is one,two if there is enough.Makes it easy on my bike cos there are a million places i can hook tie down too

[_Shrek_]

you are better to tie the bike down without the stands, that way there is no pressure on the stands etc... when it is rough

[Drew]

It's all personal preference I suppose. But given that MD goes down south a few times a year, if he offered to tie my bike down while I went and took a piss, I wouldn't even bother to go back and check it.

[CrazyFrog]

So they've found the propellor on the seabed 2 nautical miles from Tory Channel 120m deep.
"Hello 0800-Salvage, we need something picked up, oh it weighs a mere 6 tonnes."

Questions is, how long before it is salvaged and then how long before the Aratere is back in service?
Has anyone tried booking a vehicle on the Interislander in the last week or so, for travel between now and January holiday period, it's near impossible, everything is booked out. Bluebridge is prolly doing quite well out of the deal, but even they are filling up fast.
Interislander do seem to squeeze bikes on okay though :niceone:

[Fern]

so so so glad I booked me and the bitch (my bike) on the Bluebridge when I did, its chokka!

[shafty]

So they've found the propellor on the seabed 2 nautical miles from Tory Channel 120m deep.
"Hello 0800-Salvage, we need something picked up, oh it weighs a mere 6 tonnes."

Questions is, how long before it is salvaged and then how long before the Aratere is back in service?
Has anyone tried booking a vehicle on the Interislander in the last week or so, for travel between now and January holiday period, it's near impossible, everything is booked out. Bluebridge is prolly doing quite well out of the deal, but even they are filling up fast.
Interislander do seem to squeeze bikes on okay though :niceone:

I've booked three crossings since the Aratere dropped it's prop, but have deferred automatically to Bluebridge as The Interislander announced " we're taking no more bookings'

Booked last night successfully to bring my new-to-me DR400 home from the Mainland - was surprised how many options were available......:drool:

[BMWST?]

i have used the interislander exclusively till now .I am voting with my feet.I will always use bluebridge from now on.

[Grubber]

So they've found the propellor on the seabed 2 nautical miles from Tory Channel 120m deep.
"Hello 0800-Salvage, we need something picked up, oh it weighs a mere 6 tonnes."

Questions is, how long before it is salvaged and then how long before the Aratere is back in service?
Has anyone tried booking a vehicle on the Interislander in the last week or so, for travel between now and January holiday period, it's near impossible, everything is booked out. Bluebridge is prolly doing quite well out of the deal, but even they are filling up fast.
Interislander do seem to squeeze bikes on okay though :niceone:

Not sure but i think i heard yesterday that they were bringing another ferry from Holland to fill the gap. Should be here in January i think. Bit late if ya ask me.:facepalm:

[_Shrek_]

if you're in no hurry or don't mind the extra half hour, the blue bridge is good to travel on

[MD]

if you're in no hurry or don't mind the extra half hour, the blue bridge is good to travel on

I'm sailing on it tomorrow with the bike with a group of riders. We all got booked on no trouble. I have used BB before but it was some years ago.

More concerned now about the sound of RAIN on the roof! Time to dust off the wets. Most years we can avoid the rain in the South by simply switching sides between East or West, but tomorrow looks like one of those bastard days where there's no escaping the bloody rain.

[Laava]

I booked BB for next fri morning purely as a guarantee I get a fare. Prob could have still winged it but whangarei to chch is too-big a trip to rely on casual booking in the circumstances.

[BMWST?]

if you're in no hurry or don't mind the extra half hour, the blue bridge is good to travel on

st regina is much the same as the interislander,straitsman is slower .But i reckon they have the best food i have had on the strait

[_Shrek_]

I'm sailing on it tomorrow with the bike with a group of riders. We all got booked on no trouble. I have used BB before but it was some years ago.

More concerned now about the sound of RAIN on the roof! Time to dust off the wets. Most years we can avoid the rain in the South by simply switching sides between East or West, but tomorrow looks like one of those bastard days where there's no escaping the bloody rain.

welcome to the south :laugh:



st regina is much the same as the interislander,straitsman is slower .But i reckon they have the best food i have had on the strait

aye would have to agree there :yes:

[MD]

Doh! Santa Vagina has broken down in Picton this morning. At least BB are good at informing us. Got a personal ph call at 6.30am and regular texts since. So did the other guys so well done on that front BB.

Not the best of starst to a long weekend of riding the best roads in the world though. Still, just means over dosing on coffees waiting for updates. Better than being at work!

[Tazz]

Doh! Santa Regina has broken down in Picton this morning. At least BB are good at informing us. Got a personal ph call at 6.30am and regular texts since. So did the other guys so well done on that front BB.

Not the best of starts to a long weekend of riding the best roads in the world though. Still, just means over dosing on coffees waiting for updates. Better than being at work!

Ahh, gutted to hear that. Not like they can reach into a bottomless pit of money when things like this happen either, unlike their 'competition'.
At least it was an even playing field when Toll owned the Interislander :yes:

Hope they get it sorted soon. I was reading permission was being sought to take the Aratere on freight only runs with the help of a tug. Would help get things back on schedule if they could.

[BEAMER89]

I just got this email from Interislander,

"Last night Interislander confirmed the charter of a ship to replace Aratere until a replacement tail-shaft is built and installed on Aratere in drydock early in the New Year.

The chartered ship, Stena Alegra, will be able to take passengers and cars as well as road freight. This will significantly reduce capacity constraints across Cook Strait until Aratere’s return to service.

However the severe lack of vehicle capacity in the critical lead-up before Christmas still remains.

The ship will take several weeks to sail from Poland where she is currently moored. There will be regulatory issues to resolve, crew training and some trial runs as a freight only ship before Stena Alegra can enter service as a passenger vessel. We currently anticipate that this will occur sometime in early January.

The good news is though that we will be busy for the next few days integrating the new ship into our timetable and shortly we will be able to open our booking system for new vehicle bookings in January to soon give visitors to New Zealand and domestic holidaymakers some certainty to their travel plans from early January onwards.

Please note that we are open to take new foot passenger bookings right throughout the busy Christmas period on at least one sailing on each date and in both directions.

We hope to have some vehicle space available for sale shortly for the period 25 Dec – 5 Jan on our remaining two ships when the freight demand slows down in the period immediately post-Christmas.

We will get further information on a revised timetable and any available vehicle capacity through to you as soon as possible.


To read the press release and for more information you can visit our website here.

To check out the Stena Alegra you can view it here"

l should be all good to book my bike across in Feb to the "Classic bike racing at Hampton Downs" :wings:

[insomnia01]

i got that email last night also & I'm not crossing till March :laugh:

[oldman_rider2013]

There are 4 of us crossing ( north to south) on the 10th of Feb next year do you need to book or will it be ok just to turn up?

[STJim]

There are 4 of us crossing ( north to south) on the 10th of Feb next year do you need to book or will it be ok just to turn up?

I would try and book. I have just had my interisland booking for 22 February changed for the second time. I expect that the Inteislander will be taking bookings again soon with their replacement ferry being here from mid January. You might have more certainty booking with Blue Bridge.

[strumpet]

There are 4 of us crossing ( north to south) on the 10th of Feb next year do you need to book or will it be ok just to turn up?

Theres a few crossing South to North the week of Waitangi Day and the next week. The Triumph National Rally is 7-9 Feb at Lake Karapiro and the HOG National Rally is in Palmy the following weekend. Not to forget the Paeroa street races as well that weekend. So for anyone crossing with bike(s) over that period I would think about booking soon rather than risk a' turn up and see' approach.

[oldman_rider2013]

Unfortunately I'm out voted we are doing the turn up and see approach , at least I can do the I told you so thing ,although that may not help much.:doh:

[BMWST?]

Unfortunately I'm out voted we are doing the turn up and see approach , at least I can do the I told you so thing ,although that may not help much.:doh:

i ussually book but i have never had trouble when i have turned up early or late...However at busy times(like it sounds like it may be at this time) you could miss out.in your place i would ensure you have your own tie downs.

[oldman_rider2013]

.in your place i would ensure you have your own tie downs.

Yep got them :niceone:

[Transalper]

Thought is was a lot cheaper if you booked.
Pain to have to plan around those things.

[oldman_rider2013]

I guess it can't be a bad thing to stay in Wellington if we can't get on a ferry that day..any recommendations if we do?

[_Shrek_]

I guess it can't be a bad thing to stay in Wellington if we can't get on a ferry that day..any recommendations if we do?

set up tent under fly over coz the seats are to hard in the waiting area :nya:

[Paul in NZ]

I guess it can't be a bad thing to stay in Wellington if we can't get on a ferry that day..any recommendations if we do?

Not if its a nice day ;-)

If its really horrid here then its REALLY horrid... ;-(

[swbarnett]

I guess it can't be a bad thing to stay in Wellington if we can't get on a ferry that day..any recommendations if we do?
Stop shouting perhaps?

[oldman_rider2013]

Stop shouting perhaps?

sorry mate didn't mean to wake ya :headbang: thanks for all the advise , i'd hate to kick a hobbo out of a crib for the night

[BMWST?]

I guess it can't be a bad thing to stay in Wellington if we can't get on a ferry that day..any recommendations if we do?

There is a top ten holiday park in seaview about 15 k from the ferry its the closet campground.

[MD]

Update for those wondering. I just returned from 4 fun days in the South Isle. Heaps of room on both BB ferries to park bikes and they had reasonably new (clean!) ropes. Not that many anchor points on the deck though.

ps- why suffer the boring crossing. BECAUSE OF SCENERY LIKE THIS AND ROADS LIKE THIS.

[_Shrek_]

Update for those wondering. I just returned from 4 fun days in the South Isle. Heaps of room on both BB ferries to park bikes and they had reasonably new (clean!) ropes. Not that many anchor points on the deck though.

ps- why suffer the boring crossing. BECAUSE OF SCENERY LIKE THIS AND ROADS LIKE THIS.

:bash: don't tell them what it's like or they will all want to move down :msn-wink:

glad you had fun :niceone:

[oldman_rider2013]

Update for those wondering. I just returned from 4 fun days in the South Isle. Heaps of room on both BB ferries to park bikes and they had reasonably new (clean!) ropes. Not that many anchor points on the deck though.

so did you book or just turn up? and how much$$$ ?:ride:

[MD]

so did you book or just turn up? and how much$$$ ?:ride:

Booked about 3 weeks ahead. $102 for bike & rider each way.

[oldman_rider2013]

Booked about 3 weeks ahead. $102 for bike & rider each way.

Is that with blue Bridge or interislander? And are all ferrys up and running yet? 🚤 only 4 weeks till I'm cruising 🚴

[Trade_nancy]

Book online...different times will show a different ferry.
Choose KAITAKI - best for bikes....has purpose-built racks for front wheel and is newer; strops onboard...but take some as well.

[BMWST?]

Is that with blue Bridge or interislander? And are all ferrys up and running yet? 🚤 only 4 weeks till I'm cruising 🚴

4 weeks should see the replacement running too.if you book in advance on the web it can be quite a bit cheaper than just turning up.if you decide you want to change you can probably just turn up and swap tickets at web prices

[_Shrek_]

Is that with blue Bridge or interislander? And are all ferrys up and running yet?  only 4 weeks till I'm cruising 

we booked on the blue bridge $306 return bike + 2

inter islander was $332

[insomnia01]

why suffer the boring crossing. BECAUSE OF SCENERY LIKE THIS AND ROADS LIKE THIS.

March 10th I'm on my way :banana: cant wait to get back down there going to look around a bit more than last year, so much to see.... anyone done the Mangapouri power station trip ?

[Winston001]

March 10th I'm on my way :banana: cant wait to get back down there going to look around a bit more than last year, so much to see.... anyone done the Mangapouri power station trip ?

Manapouri. ;)

Yes and its worth doing if you want to go down a deep tunnel to an underground power house. The whole machine hall vibrates. I loved it.

I think trips to West Arm also include a bus ride across to Deep Cove which is where the water comes out. There is a hostel there and a catamaran which takes people out on Doubtful Sound. Its all enjoyable and interesting.

[oldman_rider2013]

Just checked the interislander site and saw the Stena Alegra was taking bookings ,has anyone traveled on her yet?

[BMWST?]

Just checked the interislander site and saw the Stena Alegra was taking bookings ,has anyone traveled on her yet?

She has only been here a couple of days they have to do stuff to comply with nz maritime law,train crew and have an evacuation drill/ test

[oldman_rider2013]

whats the story on the Stena Alegra broken down.Quote by Labour's Darien Fenton "it looks like we've got another floating dunger".Another tough break for interislander.:weep:

[fridayflash]

i need a ferry next friday or saturday, wgtn to picton...any advice? many say take my own tie downs so ill do that, some say take the strait freight ship........i guess id better do some googling

[BMWST?]

They are very similar,blue bridge more laid back,the straits man is slower than the others,book on the web,slightly cheaper and in my experience you can rock up to the terminal and change your ticket,one time I even got a 10 credit.be worth it to book at this time,school holidays ending

[BMWST?]

whats the story on the Stena Alegra broken down.Quote by Labour's Darien Fenton "it looks like we've got another floating dunger".Another tough break for interislander.:weep:

It's a machine these things happen,though this "shut down" phenomena is a bit disturbing

[strumpet]

Im booked on the Bluebridge ferries in a couple of weeks. The megathread seems to suggest there arent that many tie down points on either of their 2 ferries. How have others tied down their bikes if there arent any spare tie down points?

[Fern]

Im booked on the Bluebridge ferries in a couple of weeks. The megathread seems to suggest there arent that many tie down points on either of their 2 ferries. How have others tied down their bikes if there arent any spare tie down points?

The straightsman only had 3 of 4 tie down points for me and te other ferry was fine. If you take your own longer tie downs then you can stretch them to another tie down point if one is missing!

[BMWST?]

Both of the blue bridge ferries have enough tie down points but they are quite widely spaced meaning if there are lots of bikes you will have to share and this is where your own (long) tie downs are good

[fridayflash]

ok, im booked on a bluebridge ferry tmw at 1.30pm and my old pile of tie downs leaves a lot to be desired (shabby greasy and not particularly long camlock style dirt bike ones) im taking my gs1100 and my brother is riding my dr650 so if i go and buy some now ill need to buy 8 of the bastards to nail bith bikes down....is it imperitive to have ones own tie downs or do they have some onboard we can use? otherwise itd be about $200 for four pairs of decent tie downs eek!

[_Shrek_]

ok, im booked on a bluebridge ferry tmw at 1.30pm and my old pile of tie downs leaves a lot to be desired (shabby greasy and not particularly long camlock style dirt bike ones) im taking my gs1100 and my brother is riding my dr650 so if i go and buy some now ill need to buy 8 of the bastards to nail bith bikes down....is it imperitive to have ones own tie downs or do they have some onboard we can use? otherwise itd be about $200 for four pairs of decent tie downs eek!

they will have some, use your ones for the front of ya bikes & use their die downs/ropes for the back as you only need to stop the bike going side to side, once the front is secure

[fridayflash]

thanks shrek, just been to bunnings and got a 4pack for $20.00!! which consisted of two ratchet tiedowns and two camlocks which, whilst cheapish dont look like complete rubbish so that combined with my old dogs we should be sweet, we can cadge off them if need be:cool:

btw, whats bike travel time between picton and chch? 4 to 5 hours? will be travelling around speed limit to avoid tickets lol...fist time on the mainland for me

[Gremlin]

You should be able to run it in 3.5 hrs, non-stop and maintaining the speed limit. Add more if your pace is a little cruisy. Remember a 1 hour check-in applies for ferries.

I use 3 tie downs per bike. One on each side on the front, one looped through the rear wheel and tied both ends, as said, to stop it sliding sideways.

[fridayflash]

yeehaa, thanks gremlin, time wise sounds good.we get in at picton at 5pm and will truck on straight to chch, with a bit of luck get in about dark

[oldman_rider2013]

Booked to go Feb 10th on the Arahura paid $201 on the 22nd Jan , week later the price was $156 WTF? , so you can guess what i did.:laugh:

[jellywrestler]

.is it imperitive to have ones own tie downs or do they have some onboard we can use? otherwise itd be about $200 for four pairs of decent tie downs eek!

you pay a fee per square meter more than cars and vans, just tell the crew you need tie downs, if it takes half an hour it takes half an hour, dont let them get away with not providing this service.

[oldman_rider2013]

Got to wellington today to get on the 3pm crossing told these is and issue with one of the life boats ....interislander strikes again!!!! Told to come back for 9pm crossing.that's if we make it out of the Cambridge hotel.awesome blokes at wellington motorcycles bought an Oxford strap of them
and they they are looking after our gear while we're in the pub

[Tazz]

Got to wellington today to get on the 3pm crossing told these is and issue with one of the life boats ....interislander strikes again!!!! Told to come back for 9pm crossing.that's if we make it out of the Cambridge hotel.awesome blokes at wellington motorcycles bought an Oxford strap of them
and they they are looking after our gear while we're in the pub

Yeah the 11am over this side didn't leave till 2:30/3pm. Not sure if it was a full one waiting for the berth to be free or the one with the problem but an Interislander was chilling out by Mabel Island (coming from Shakespeare Bay direction) earlier =/

As for your bike....that was good of them...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4K55eCcoI4

:bleh:

[BMWST?]

7 pm one from picton was about. 40 minutes late,took a few goes to berth,then took a long time to load,a good swell in the strait but the stabilizers did their job well!

[strumpet]

I've currently just boarded Straitsman Picton bound. Booked ages ago cos didn't think Interislander was totally reliable - good move. Seven booked bikes were allowed on, but 4 - turn up an take yer chance bikers - were turned away. The ship is filled to capacity with cars not able to get on the interislander. Crew member told me the Bluebridge is full to capacity until next Monday cos of Interislanders problems, also that (and purely the competition talking) the Stena also has some problem or other. Moral is: book before U get here.:done:

[oldman_rider2013]

I took these on the way back on the blue bridge from (picton to wellington) a selection of blue bridge tiedowns & instruction diagram (I took my own Oxford handlebar strap
& two tiedowns )
294540294541

[cynna]

bluebridge have the best chips ever - or maybe i was just starving

[_Shrek_]

bluebridge have the best chips ever - or maybe i was just starving

:laugh: they have always had good food when we have travelled with them.... inter islander breakfast meals are yummy as well

[CrazyFrog]

I travelled on the Stena Alegra on Monday, sailing was a bit lumpy through the Strait, but the ship handled it well, seemed very stable.
It was bloody slow though, the standard crossing time is 4hrs on that ship, compared to 3hrs 30min on the others. And evryone seems to comment on really slow time to disembark after arrival, 20 mins seems to be the norm. Too fuckin slow. Effectively a 4hr 30min trip.

Sorry Interislander, but I won't use that boat again. But I did like the bikers weather shelter at check-in area in Wellington.

[Ocean1]

a selection of blue bridge tiedowns

Nawt wrong with 'em, I used almost identical tie downs for fookin' years.

[Mo NZ]

Nawt wrong with 'em, I used almost identical tie downs for fookin' years.

I agree. Cept mine don't have the metal hook.

Part of the problem a lot on blokes don't know how to tie a knot or which one to use. :confused:
Ropes take up less room and are much lighter as well.

[oldman_rider2013]

Nawt wrong with 'em, I used almost identical tie downs for fookin' years.

Never said there was anything wrong with them , just a picture of what's available.

[insomnia01]

Monday 10/3 0630 I'm away & into it :yes: 7days in the Sth & then 5 days in the Nth :Punk:

[jellywrestler]

Nawt wrong with 'em, I used almost identical tie downs for fookin' years.

yeah the competent can use them and get a chance to use ones rarely used tying skills and walk away with a grin, but the desk jockey who parks his bike next to yours hasn't a clue and all the tying down of your bike in the world won't stop his falling on yours....

[Grubber]

I hear you all goin on about cost on ferry etc, not sure what ya on about really. I'm about to take a large ute and trailer loaded with race bike on the Bluebridge and it cost me nothing. Yup zero zip nothing for there and back again.
It's not what you know it's who you know aye fellas!:bye:

[BMWST?]

I took these on the way back on the blue bridge from (picton to wellington) a selection of blue bridge tiedowns & instruction diagram (I took my own Oxford handlebar strap
& two tiedowns )
294540294541


I travelled on the Stena Alegra on Monday, sailing was a bit lumpy through the Strait, but the ship handled it well, seemed very stable.
It was bloody slow though, the standard crossing time is 4hrs on that ship, compared to 3hrs 30min on the others. And evryone seems to comment on really slow time to disembark after arrival, 20 mins seems to be the norm. Too fuckin slow. Effectively a 4hr 30min trip.

Sorry Interislander, but I won't use that boat again. But I did like the bikers weather shelter at check-in area in Wellington.

Dont go on the straitsman then,same crossing time

[budit]

Hi people

I have decided last minute to do a bit of a tour of the South Island. I won a ticket on the BlueBridge leaving in a week, and was wondering what the process was for securing your bike on the Ferry as I have not done a crossing with my Bike. I would assume it is a simple case of using some tie downs however are these supplied by the Ferry or does one have to bring their own. Again I assume there would be sufficient tie downs supplied however i don't want to arrive and find nothing suitable. I have a 1199 so don't particularity want to see it on its side when I arrive in Picton. Also if supplied by the Ferry are they thick or are we talking standard tie downs eg not for large cars trucks, can't see those working well over the clip ons. I have limited space so don't particularly want to to have to carry my own, tail bag is all I will be taking.

Thanks in Advance

[Swoop]

Have a quick read of this thread.
http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/171872-Travelling-to-South-Island-to-pick-up-motorcycle-what-do-I-need-to-do-take

[cheshirecat]

Been on them a couple of times. Plenty of ties, though I had my own. There were chocks as well. Just remember to keep it on the side stand - oh but you won't have a choice will you! Bike came out smelling like sheep piss but then that goes for the rest as well. Take your own food unless you like 60's menus

[Kendoll]

Take your own tie-downs. My experience is that the ones on there aren't great quality and there aren't enough unless you're in the first 3 or 4 bikes on. I've taken my own every time and it has always been worth it, even with limited space.

And work out what you're doing with them before you get on the ferry or go with someone who's done it before so you don't get it wrong - especially with such a purrrdy bike in question!

[nodrog]

fucksakes!

[mossy1200]

If you lay it down on its side it cant fall down.
Normally theres lots of holes in the deck that you can put a foot peg into to stop it sliding also.

[James Deuce]

Don't try to get off the ferry after it's left the dock. Srsly. DAMHIK.

[R650R]

Because its a Ducati you'll have to leave it running otherwise youll get salt creep in the pipes.

[mossy1200]

I found an old picture.
The key is to find multiple spots to strap it down and get a 34pack strop set.
If you look up most people don't realise theres hooks on the ceiling also.

[Tazz]

To lazy to reverse the trailer in aye ;)

Food is awesome on there I thought.

If you don't know what to do someone will come do it for you while you hit the bar. I wouldn't trust them without checking, but you don't want to miss out on a good seat by the taps either. Tough call.

[pritch]

Take yer own tie downs in a plastic bag in case you get stuck near a stock truck. The bag will stop the shitty tie downs oderising your clothes.
Above all be adaptable as to tying the bike down, sometimes you don't have much to work with. If the weather stays the same, you won't have much to worry about.
If...

[Waihou Thumper]

No issues at all. I took tie downs, waste of time. I was the first on the ferry, rope was there, chocks were there and all was good.
Would be happy to keep using them, nice work Bluebridge. :)

[jonnyk5614]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPjWMDAYWZs

Doesn't matter if the bike is tied down - what about the stock trucks!

[Joemac]

Does anyone have any tips for tying down a bike on the interislander? I am going up to Wellington (for the ac/dc [emoji450] concert) on Saturday (and back Sunday). It would be a shame to fuck that part of the trip up by dropping it en route.
The bike is a triumph Sprint ST if that makes a difference.

Cheers

[Akzle]

do a search. Imsure its been said before.

Byo tie downs. Compress the forks and stop the ass bouncing sideways. 3 will do it.

[Tazz]

Bring your own tie downs, x 3. One to each handlebar side (pulling the bike up off the stand and forward) and one to through the rear wheel pulling bike back, bike left in gear, back wheel chocked. Some people leave it on the stand.

[Grubber]

If your coming from the South to Wellington, why wouldn't you just passenger across and save yourself $90 + for the bike.
You could walk to the stadium from the terminal in 20 minutes.

[EJK]

It's pretty easy actually. Technically speaking I think tie-downs are OTT but people (including myself) do it for the peace of mind. The boat is very stable.

Just leave it on the center stand :p




P.S. No, don't leave it on the center stand. Follow what Tazz said.

[Joemac]

If your coming from the South to Wellington, why wouldn't you just passenger across and save yourself $90 + for the bike.
You could walk to the stadium from the terminal in 20 minutes.
I'm staying the night in town somewhere. I still might leave it in Picton. I paid for it and then thought that that might be a silly idea, especially coming back piss crook on Sunday.

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[JimO]

especially coming back piss crook on Sunday.

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well if your "piss crook" you shouldnt be riding

[Tazz]

I'm staying the night in town somewhere. I still might leave it in Picton. I paid for it and then thought that that might be a silly idea, especially coming back piss crook on Sunday.

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I have secure parking out the back of work in Picton you can use if you like.
Aboot 5 mins walk from the terminal when sober but 10 mins walk, 5 mins swim and 12 min duck fight if you're coming back still sauced.

Will just quickly mention that green bottled beer, Moa or JD is the preferred drop here at the minute :D

[Frodo]

Everyone has their own way. Here's mine. This assumes that you can't prop the front wheel against something solid (and I don't mean a chock).
Put bike on sidestand. I take one short length of rope about 1 m long and tie the rear wheel onto the deck using hooks or what have you. This should stop the bike moving forward when you tie down the front of the bike. Tie another length of rope about 2m long using a bowline on to the left fork just about the lower triple clamp. Loop around something on the deck or bulkhead and tighten down moderately using a truckers hitch or similar. Tie another length of rope about 2 or 3m long around the other fork above the lower triple clamp and loop around some other fastening and tighten using another truckers hitch. Then tighten up the rope on the left triple clamp. Done.
I don't use ratchet tiedowns because I trust my own knots. The rope can be used for other things when camping, etc. and takes less room. I found that yachting rope about 5mm or so thick holds knots well.
A truckers hitch is a simple knot that works well. See #5 in here: http://blog.emergencyoutdoors.com/top-five-survival-knots/
You could use ratchet tiedowns at the front. In any case, watch out for pressure on fairings, on brake or electrical lines.
It pays to make sure the bike next to yours is also tied down securely!

[Joemac]

I have secure parking out the back of work in Picton you can use if you like.
Aboot 5 mins walk from the terminal when sober but 10 mins walk, 5 mins swim and 12 min duck fight if you're coming back still sauced.

Will just quickly mention that green bottled beer, Moa or JD is the preferred drop here at the minute :D
Thanks man. I have a rellie in blenhiem who will drop me off at the terminal. Bit cheers for the offer!

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[Tazz]

Thanks man. I have a rellie in blenhiem who will drop me off at the terminal. Bit cheers for the offer!

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All good mate, offer stands any time you're passing through.
Just had a quick yarn to a few who came up on the train today. They drank it dry haha.
Few beers with a mate passing through on his way tonight (10:30pm sailing I think) so if you're in the hood and thirsty give us a yell. Will probably be downing steins at Cortardos :D

[CB ARGH]

Wicked thread. Thanks for the tips and pics guys. I'll be going across with bluebridge next Sunday. Will make a post outlining any problems and a mini review. Churr churr.

[Kiwi Bandit]

Thanks for all the great info. I studied this thread before taking my Suzuki 1250 Bandit on the Interislander - Wellington to Picton in May 2017.
Found the advice here invaluable. As many have said, take your own tie downs. The tie downs on the ferry were in poor condition, went across on the Awatere. Not many tie downs on the Kaiarahi on the return voyage which was quite rough and I was glad I used four of my own heavy duty tie downs plus used some of their own.

I've posted a video on my new YouTube channel boarding the Awatere.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPw8SWg7WHE&t=7shttp://

I've added a couple of extra videos of riding down there, great weather and awesome roads and scenery. Can't wait to go again. Will add more videos as I get time.
Not much commentary just the bike the road and fantastic views. Did get a bit chilly and was glad of the heated grips a friend persuaded me to install just before the trip.
The bike was amazing, pulled up the hills like a train two up and heaps of gear, really comfortable touring machine, though I added some sheepskin covers to the seat to reduce a sore backside, definitely helpful on the longer legs. Used Velcro straps around the seat so I could easily remove the sheepskin covers if it rained.

[OV Lander]

Can't believe this thread is still going strong! It'll be 10 years since I started it this Xmas! :)

[MD]

I sailed the Interislander twice last week on the bike and was happy with the tie downs they provided. I always carry a small set myself but rarely bother to use my own.

I sailed out of Welly 9am which was the Kai..something. And returned on the night sailing 10pm from Picton, Kai... something else.. more of a cargo vessel. Their ties were easy to find, the tension release catches can be difficult sometimes to work. Both ships had the steel front wheel braces to position your bike which really help.
Caution- these stands still require your sidestand. I have seen a rider once step off his bike only to watch it fall over onto the next bike.

[actungbaby]

So am about to head south for a couple of weeks on the bike, and thought it best to ask the idiot question here, amongst friends (?), rather than on the ferry.

Just how do you secure the dike on the ferry?.... ....OK, so I mean't Bike!!

Do you:
- tie it down as per on a trailer (not stand, compress the suspension)?
- put on a stand (side or centre)?
- put it in gear?
- provide your own tie downs?
- tie it down yourself or trust your machine to the crew?

I know some will say the answers are obvious, but I'd rather ask the 'bleedin' obvious' than damage the machine!

Cheers for all advice - G

From memory the crew dont want to tie the machine down . i asked in the past

its the motorclist job they tie down the other well am not sure with cars just handbarke etc .

[T.W.R]

From memory the crew dont want to tie the machine down . i asked in the past

its the motorclist job they tie down the other well am not sure with cars just handbarke etc .

That's fair enough too, it negates them from any liability if the bike falls over due to being incorrectly stropped down.
Plus personally I wouldn't trust anyone else to tie my bike down.
I carry a Gorilla strop & 2 standard issue bike strops for trips that involve a ferry crossing, the gorilla does the front end and the other two do the rear and the bike is solid as a rock :yes:

[BMWST?]

i use two at the front and one at the back If it looks as though its going to be a moderate trip I use the side stand,in gear and the straps sorta just hold it in place.If it looks like its gonna be rough its no stand front suspension compressed ,in gear and a tight strap on the back too .I will use a chock too if i can find one.I try to avoid trains n trucks but sometimes you got no choice

[pete376403]

I agree with all that except leaving in gear. Just about all of my interisland trips are for the Brass Monkey (so, winter, rough crossing expected) and I'm not keen on the idea of and rocking back and forth loads being taken by the gearbox. (Not that there should be and rocking back and forth if it's tied down and chocked correctly but...)

As always, YMMV

[BMWST?]

I agree with all that except leaving in gear. Just about all of my interisland trips are for the Brass Monkey (so, winter, rough crossing expected) and I'm not keen on the idea of and rocking back and forth loads being taken by the gearbox. (Not that there should be and rocking back and forth if it's tied down and chocked correctly but...)

As always, YMMV
i dont see that the bike rocking back and forth places any more loads than a rough throttle chop or rough gear change,but hey its your bike!

[awayatc]

You could put cable tie on front brake lever...
That will lock her up!