Bluebridge ferry swaying during Cook Strait crossing captured in dramatic video

Social media users said just watching the video made them feel sick. Screenshot / @TravellingTinyNZ

Incredible footage has emerged of a Bluebridge ferry being rocked as it voyaged through the Cook Strait crossing, making some viewers feel nauseous watching.

The video clip was shared on Monday by the Facebook page Travelling Tiny NZ, showing a Bluebridge ferry swaying heavily as it traverses through waves with vehicles stationed on its sides.

“Heading back to the North Island today. Do you like the Cook Strait crossing? Good fun I recon [sic],” read the video caption, which has been viewed more than 1.4 million times and attracted hundreds of comments.

“Getting seasick just watching this,” commented one user.

“Omg not good makes me feel ill just watching the clip,” wrote another.

The Cook Strait crossing, which refers to the journey between the North Island from Wellington and the South Island from Picton - taking approximately three and a half hours - has a stomach-churning reputation.

Several others shared their rough experiences in the comments on the video.

“Many years ago I caught the ferry from Picton to Wellington and I watched a lot of people get seasick and spew,” one user remarked.

Another wrote: “When I was a kid nearly all the passengers were seasick, huddled up to the bell of the ship.”

This week ferry operators warned passengers crossing Cook Strait of rough seas that could make for uncomfortable journeys.

“We appreciate that a lot of people are travelling with us over the holidays, and we are sorry that these weather-related disruptions may impact your travel plans,” the ferry said on its website, as reported by RNZ on Monday.

“Our top priority is ensuring everyone’s safety while minimising the impact on our customers.”

To ease the discomfort, Interislander suggested sitting towards the back of the ship where there was less movement, not sailing on an empty stomach, sipping ginger ale during the trip, and trying seasickness medicines, RNZ reported.