picton nz tours

THE 10 BEST Picton Tours & Excursions

Tours in picton.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Walking Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tour Including Wine Tasting

2. Marlborough Sounds Ultimate Cruise

3. Scenic flight - Experience our Water and Wilderness scenic tour

4. Seafood Odyssea Marlborough Sounds Cruise from Picton

5. Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise

6. Discover Marlborough Wine - Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour

7. Cruise Ship Day - Marlborough

8. Half day Sea Kayak Guided Tour from Picton

9. Half-Day Cruise in Marlborough Sounds from Picton

10. Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort

11. Marlborough Wine Region Tour from the Port of Picton

12. Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton

13. Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Picton to Christchurch

14. Cruise Excursion - Wines of Marlborough Tour

15. Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary and Ship Cove Cruise from Picton

16. 3.5 Hour Marlborough Sounds Delivery Cruise

17. Marlborough Sounds Greenshell Mussel Tasting Cruise

18. Captain Cook and Dolphin Cruise

19. Half-Day Guided Sea Kayaking Tour from Anakiwa

20. Full-Day Wine Tour from Picton

21. Full-Day Marlborough Catamaran Cruise with Wine Tour and Lunch

22. Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge

23. Bird Watching and Dolphin Eco-Tour from Picton

24. Self-Guided Queen Charlotte Track Walk from Picton

25. InterIslander Ferry - Picton to Wellington

26. 2 hour Dolphin Viewing Eco-Tour from Picton

27. Bays and Bush Scenic Tour

28. Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Marlborough

29. Full-Day Guided Sea Kayak Trip from Picton

30. Marlborough Icons Tour - Wine tasting + Cruise

What travellers are saying.

• Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tour Including Wine Tasting
• Marlborough Sounds Ultimate Cruise
• Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise
• Seafood Odyssea Marlborough Sounds Cruise from Picton
• Half-Day Cruise in Marlborough Sounds from Picton
• Sounds Connection
• Beachcomber Cruises
• Cougar Line
• Greenshell Mussel Cruise
• Seafood Odyssea Cruise
• Arrow Water Taxis
• Natural Encounters Walks
• Wilderness Guides - Day Tours
• The Snout walking track
• Marlborough Sounds Adventure Company - Day Tours
• Seamonkeez Jetski Hire
• Pelorus Air
• New Zealand Walks

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The Complete Travel Guide to Picton ⛴️ [2024]

Nz pocket guide is 10 years old. thank you for trusting us with your trip for over a decade, how to plan the best trip to picton.

Picton might be known as a base for the ferries that link the North Island and South Island , but this picturesque seaside town is much more than that. Lining a harbour on the edge of Queen Charlotte Sound with breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters and historical attractions, Picton simply begs to be explored. Kayak, cruise or sail across the Sound’s glistening waters that are frequented by dolphins, seals and whales. You might also want to visit predator-free islands to see the birdlife and flora of what much of New Zealand once was. Cruises and water taxis will also give you access to one of New Zealand’s premium tramping and mountain biking trails, the Queen Charlotte Track .

On land, enjoy Kiwi cuisine on the waterfront and learn about the area’s history of early exploration, whaling and sailing in the two museums. Further inland you have New Zealand’s most iconic wine region, Marlborough , where tours will make sure you get plenty of tipples of the renowned Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc.

So stick around in Picton at the beginning or end of your South Island road trip and plan a trip to remember with our complete travel guide to Picton.

Common Questions About Picton

Let’s cut to the chase; what are the most common questions travellers have about visiting Picton?

What is Picton Known For?

Most know Picton as the place where you can take the ferry to the North Island, but it’s also famous for being the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds.

Where is Picton Located?

At the top of the South Island in the Marlborough region of New Zealand.

What is the Weather Usually Like in Picton?

Picton has many sunny days and a warm climate in summer. The daily average temperature is 12.4°C/54.4°F , while the yearly average rainfall is 1,435mm/56.5″. Find out more in What is the Weather Like in New Zealand?

How Do You Get to Picton?

Picton is well connected to the rest of New Zealand by road at the start of State Highway 1 on the South Island. It is the port for the North Island-South Island ferry . The closest international airport is Wellington Airport (4h20min ferry and drive), which has domestic flights to Picton Airport. Picton is also on the main national bus route, which you can find more information about in Bus Networks in New Zealand . Finally, it is at the beginning/end of the line for trains to Christchurch .

Is There Anything to Do in Picton?

Yes: cruises, mountain biking, dolphin swimming, wine tours, hiking, kayaking, museums and much more! Scroll down for our complete guide including what to do in Picton.

What to Do in Picton

Wedged between the breathtaking cruising grounds of the Queen Charlotte Sound and the Marlborough wine region, Picton offers varied yet exciting experiences. Get out on the water to see bird sanctuary islands, dolphins and historical sites. You can also experience the sound by bike along its famous multi-day trail or keep the cycling for a way to get between vineyards after multiple wine tastings.

The Top Experiences in Picton

What are the must-dos? Here are some of the Picton highlights:

• Hike or cycle the Queen Charlotte Track
• Cruise Queen Charlotte Sound with E-Ko Tours   (more info and book tickets on Viator and Klook )
• Take a seafood cruise with Seafood Odyssea Cruise   (on Viator   and  Klook )
• Capture the views from the  10 Best Hikes in Picton
• Tour the Marlborough wine region with Sounds Connection …

… And the list continues over in our  15 Best Things to Do in Picton .

Rainy Day Activities

Although Picton has a fairly dry climate, it’s always a good idea to have a rainy-day backup. Some options include:

• Visit the Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum
• See the Edwin Fox Historical Ship at its museum
• Take a trip to the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre (more info on  Viator and Klook ) .

Get more inspiration from our  10 Things to Do in Picton on a Rainy Day .

Where to Stay in Picton

Other than the accommodations we recommend on the righthand side of this complete travel guide to Picton (or at the bottom if you’re on mobile), we have compiled entire lists of places to stay based on price, what’s best for families or a couples’ getaway, as well as premium stays. What’s more, each list is compiled by real writers; not some algorithm.

• 20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay
• 10 Best Motels
• 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations
• 5 Best Backpacker Hostels
• 10 Best Budget Accommodations
• 10 Best Family Accommodations
• 10 Best Luxury Accommodations
• 10 Best Romantic Accommodations .

Stay at the Picton Yacht Club Hotel

Set on the waterfront of the Picton Marina, the Picton Yacht Club Hotel offers an indulgent introduction to the South Island. The four-star hotel offers contemporary rooms for couples, families, business travellers and small groups. While there are more affordable entry-level rooms available, there’s the option to treat yourself to a “Penthouse Apartment” with three separate bedrooms and a full kitchen. But whichever room you decide to stay in, you’ll still have access to the hotel’s large outdoor pool, on-site parking, free WiFi, the Boatshed Bar and the relaxed dining room at The Chartroom Restaurant . Check out deals on the Picton Yacht Club Hotel at cpghotels.com .

Where to Eat in Picton

Picton is part of New Zealand’s largest wine region, Marlborough , famous for its Sauvignon Blanc amongst other varietals. Needless to say, a wine tour is a must, whether you prefer a driving tour, hop-on hop-off or a helicopter tour. It’s also worth taking a cruise to Picton’s nearby green-lipped mussel and salmon farms, while the nearby town of Blenheim also hosts a chocolate factory and craft breweries. Learn about them all and more in The Food Guide to Picton: Places to Eat & Food Tours .

The Best Restaurants and Places to Eat in Picton

• Picton Village Bakkerij (46 Auckland Street)
• Gusto ( 33 High Street )
• DA’s The Barn (48 High Street)
• Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen (1 Wellington Street)
• Escape to Picton (33 Wellington Street)

Learn more about these eateries and much more in The Food Guide to Picton .

Food Tours and Experiences in Picton

• Tour Marlborough ‘s wineries
• Go on a seafood cruise (on  Viator and Klook )
• Experience Marlborough’s craft beer at Dodson Street
• Indulge in high tea at Escape to Picton
• Visit the Makana Confections chocolate factory.

For more information and locations of each experience, see the 10 Best Foodie Experiences in Picton .

Picton for Budget Travellers

Picton is well worth at least one or two days’ stay before you start travelling the South Island. Not only are there some excellent hikes and walking trails to discover with epic views of the Queen Charlotte Sound , but you’ll also find fascinating museums on its waterfront. Combined with a stay in one of the town’s characterful and friendly hostels or perhaps in a holiday park or motel, your stay can be fun and affordable. Get some more tips in The Guide to Picton on a Budget and Picton – Guide for Backpackers . 

Budget Activities in Picton

• Do a short walk in the Victoria Domain or the Tirohanga Track
• Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum
• Check out the Picton Heritage & Whaling Museum
• Hit the Picton mountain bike trails
• Check out the views from Karaka Point .

For more activities and information on each, check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in Picton .

Budget Accommodation in Picton

Picton is home to some of the highest quality backpacker hostels in New Zealand, as well as a wealth of holiday parks and motels. Choose from the best in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations in Picton .

Picton for Luxury Travellers

On the shores between New Zealand’s largest wine region and the stunningly scenic Marlborough Sounds, Picton offers a dynamic coastal experience for discerning travellers. It’s home to one of New Zealand’s most premium multi-day hiking trails, the Queen Charlotte Track , with options to stay in luxury lodges instead of the usual basic huts. The scenery and wine region can also be experienced on scenic flights, cruises and driving tours. After an amazing day out, retreat to one of the town’s cosy B&Bs or a resort out in the Marlborough Sounds. Find out more in The Luxury Guide to Picton .

Premium Activities in Picton

• Hike the Queen Charlotte Track
• Enjoy a private Marlborough region wine tour
• Take to the skies in a scenic flight over Marlborough with Coast to Coast Helicopters or Pelorus Air
• Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at the Bay of Many Coves
• Sail the Marlborough Sounds .

For more details on each experience and others, see our 10 Best Luxury Experiences in Picton .

Luxury Accommodation in Picton

From upscale boutique B&Bs with friendly locals to luxury resorts nestled in the bays of the Marlborough Sounds, there are some memorable stays to be had in Picton. Check them out in the 10 Best Luxury Accommodations in Picton .

Picton for Families

Families will find a good balance of educational and outdoor family fun in Picton. With around five different wildlife experiences to be had between the predator-proof wildlife sanctuaries and wildlife centre, kids can enjoy an engaging educational experience with New Zealand’s birds, reptiles and marine life. There’s history to discover in the museums and steam train journey, while the family-friendly walks and bike trails are other great ways to enjoy the outdoors and scenery together. Complete a stay with exciting holiday parks, convenient apartments and motels and more. Check out The Guide to Picton for Families for more travel advice.

Family Activities in Picton

• Take a cruise to Motuara Island with Beachcomber Cruises
• Visit the underwater observatory, kayak, swim and ride the flying fox at Lochmara Lodge
• Ride the Marlborough Flyer steam train
• Do a kayak tour in the harbour or on the Pelorus River
• Hit some of the family-friendly hiking trails .

For more information on each experience and more, head to our 10 Things to Do in Picton with Kids .

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Picton

Take your pick from holiday parks with playgrounds and other family-friendly facilities, self-catering motels, hotel rooms and spacious apartments in our 10 Best Family Accommodations in Picton .

Picton for Couples

With glistening sheltered waters between the Queen Charlotte Sound ‘s labyrinth of coves and inlets, Picton certainly sets the stage for romance. Combined with a stay in the small town’s boutique B&Bs or a resort in the Sound and you have a destination on your honeymoon itinerary or even a romantic weekend away to remember. Picton is definitely a place for couples who prefer to adventure together with scenic double kayak tours, the Queen Charlotte Track and more. But for those who want a little bit of pampering, the day spas and wine tours are here to serve. Start planning your visit with The Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to Picton .

Romantic Activities in Picton

• Team up in a double kayak to paddle the Marlborough Sounds
• Swim with dolphins (available on Viator or Klook )
• Do the Queen Charlotte Track together
• Enjoy breakfast in the Sounds at Lochmara Lodge
• Indulge in a couples spa retreat at Little Oasis Massage & Spa .

For more inspiration and information on each experience, as well as a few more, see the 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in Picton .

Romantic Accommodation in Picton

Couples will find just the right tone set in Picton’s boutique hotels, B&Bs and lodges. For a special occasion, retreat to the lavish lodges and resorts of the Queen Charlotte Sound. Find out more in the 10 Best Romantic Accommodations in Picton .

Picton Accommodation

• Picton Yacht Club Hotel
• Tombstone Backpackers
• Harbour View Motel
• Picton Accommodation Gateway Motel
• High Street Living Motel
• Waikawa Bay Holiday Park
• Aldan Lodge
• Atlantis Backpackers
• Picton Campervan Park
• Beachcomber Inn Picton
• Broadway Motel
• Jasmine Court Motel
• Bay Vista Waterfront Motel
• Parklands Marina Holiday Park
• Sequoia Lodge & Backpackers
• Piwaka Lodge
• Tasman Holiday Parks Picton
• Lochmara Lodge
• Smiths Farm Holiday Park
• Beachside Sunnyvale Motel
• Alexanders Holiday Park
• Bay of Many Coves
• Anakiwa Lodge
• The Portage
• Kippilaw House
• Escape to Picton
• Oxley’s Superior Luxury Apartment
• Sennen House Boutique Accommodation
• Anchor Down Bed & Breakfast
• Palmira Lodge
• Admirals Lodge

Find out more about our top picks in the  20 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Picton and the  10 Best Motels in Picton .

More About Picton

That’s it for our complete travel guide to Picton but by no means the end of our Picton travel tips! Check out the following guides for more advice 5on what to do nearby:

• 13 Best Things to Do in Blenheim
• 10 Best Things to Do in Havelock

Top 10 Natural Attractions in Marlborough

• 10 Best Things to Do in the Marlborough Sounds
• 10 Marlborough Must-Dos

French Pass and D’Urville Island – Guide for Backpackers

Finally, plan more of your South Island trip using the South Island in Two Weeks: Road Trip Itinerary or South Island in One Week: Road Trip Itinerary . You’ll also find more advice for planning an epic NZ trip in  The Best Travel Guide to New Zealand .

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across New Zealand and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

• Tourism New Zealand (General travel advice - Updated [2024])
• Department of Conservation (Tracks, hikes, campsites and more - Updated [2024])
• AdventureSmart (Know before you go - Update [2024])
• Tiaki Promise (Care for people place and culture - Updated [2024])
• NZ Māori Tourism (Official Māori Tourism platform - Updated [2024])
• Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency (Road and transport tips - Updated [2024])
• DriveSafe (Road safety - Updated [2024])
• Council websites and freedom camping maps (Local travel advice region by region - Updated [2024])
• Safe Travel (NZ travel advisories - Updated [2024])
• Tourism Export Council New Zealand (Tourism trade association - Updated [2024])
• TIA (Independent tourism association - Updated [2024])
• Marlborough NZ (Regional tourism website)
• Visit Waitohi / Picton (Regional tourism website)
• Marlborough District Council (Local council website)

Our editorial standards : At NZ Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

This article has been reviewed and published by Laura, the editor-in-chief and co-founder of NZ Pocket Guide. Laura is a first-class honours journalism graduate and a travel journalist with expertise in New Zealand and South Pacific tourism for over 10 years. She also runs travel guides for five of the top destinations in the South Pacific and is the co-host of over 250 episodes of the NZ Travel Show on YouTube.

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Related posts, 10 best things to do in the marlborough sounds + best boat trips, picton – guide for backpackers, 10 things to do in picton with kids, the honeymoon guide to picton, recommended for you, the top new zealand events & festivals 🙌 [2024], 15 best backpacker hostels in tongariro national park 🎒 [2024], 10 best hostels in national park village & whakapapa 🎒 [2024], destinations, travel tips, connect with us, accommodation.

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The perfect place to be together.

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Nestled in the heart of the majestic Marlborough Sounds, Waitohi / Picton is quite possibly the prettiest seaside town in New Zealand. There are plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained, from bush walks and kayaking to wine tours and fishing trips. With a wide range of accommodation options, plus plenty of cafés and restaurants to enjoy, Waitohi / Picton is great for a night or a week. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly holiday, Waitohi / Picton is sure to have something to offer. So, if you're looking for a place to unwind and create cherished memories, look no further than Waitohi / Picton, its the perfect place to be together.

With some of the best weather in New Zealand, one fifth of New Zealand's coastline and New Zealand’s biggest wine region just a short drive away, Waitohi / Picton and Queen Charlotte Sound really are special places, that you'll never forget. The Marlborough Sounds are full of amazing marine and bird life including five species of Dolphin (namely the cute and endangered Hector's Dolphin), Fur Seals, Little Blue Penguins, visits from Orca and Humpback Whales and home to rare birds including New Zealand’s endangered Saddle Back Bird, and other beautiful animals. The Marlborough Sounds are often called paradise by the locals and when you explore you'll realise why. The Marlborough Sounds are truly one of the most beautiful water landscapes on earth.

Picton, gateway to Queen Charlotte Sound, New Zealand

By Marlborough Tour Company

Marlborough

• Heart of Marlborough Sounds
• Queen Charlotte Track
• Arts, crafts and great dining

6 hours from Christchurch

The heart of the Marlborough Sounds, this picturesque port town is home to great cafés, restaurants, galleries and specialty shops.

Picton, Marlborough , Marlborough

By Miles Holden

The picturesque seaside town of Picton is the South Island base for Bluebridge (opens in new window) and Interislander (opens in new window) ferries that link the main islands of New Zealand and the heart of the Marlborough Sounds .

Built around a very sheltered harbour, the town has an attractive seafront dotted with cafés, restaurants, various types of galleries. There’s also a floating maritime museum and an aquarium. Local operators can take you cruising, fishing, dolphin watching, sea kayaking or mountain biking.

The Queen Charlotte Track is a major local attraction; you can conquer it on foot or on a mountain bike. Functional facts: Approx. population 3000, isite Visitor Centre, ferry services to and from the North Island. 

Explore Picton

Find things to do, find places to stay, find transport, find a multi-day tour.

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World-Class Wildlife & Nature Tours in New Zealand

Moturara island and dolphin cruise.

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Nature & Wildlife Adventure for Your Soul

The Marlborough Sounds and Picton are one of the last undiscovered areas of New Zealand.

E-Ko has been running the best tours in Picton and the Marlborough Sounds  on and off the water here for over 15 years, with thousands of happy customers.

Unique features of the area include over 1000 square kilometres of predator free islands - great for experiencing wild birds animals in their natural environment.

We have a team of passionate guides who love to show off our scenery, wildlife, people and more.

We partner with the Interislander Ferry to schedule our tour times so that you'll never miss your ferry.

No Seasickness Guarantee! (Exclusive)

We offer all guests a 'No Seasickness Guarantee'

If you suffer from seasickness on an E-Ko tour, we'll give you a FULL refund.

We guarantee this because our nature and wildlife tours take place on the beautiful, clear waters of the Marlborough Sounds - waters that are super calm.

No one wants to get seasick, and in over 15 years of operation we've never had a guest suffer from seasickness.

We are the only NZ operator willing to offer this guarantee! So be rest assured that when you travel with us, you'll never have to worry about seasickness.

Find Out More

Wildlife Holidays in New Zealand for the Environmentally Conscious Tourist

Are you looking for that close-up encounter with nature but want to do it in an environmentally conscious way, without the big noisy crowds and over-excited tourists? If you want to connect with nature in a small group of like-minded people for an unforgettable wildlife eco tour then you've come to the right place. Read More

Here at E-Ko Tours , we are passionate about providing world-class tours in New Zealand in a responsible and sustainable way. Our focus is on showing you what treasures our amazing local environment has to offer, and to give back to nature through ethical tourism.

We have obtained the highest environmental certification endorsements both nationally and internationally, and have partnered with the World Cetacean Alliance, making us the only tour operator in Picton to be dual certified as both a DOC SMART Operator and WCA Responsible Whale and Dolphin Operator. Our Exclusive DOC Permits allow for our guests to swim with wild dolphins, swim with seals and view all species of dolphins on our Picton cruises , or join us on our whale island tours . With our WCA-certified marine guides and our experienced skippers, we can provide you with a highly educational and thoroughly enjoyable experience you will never forget!

There Are So Many Nature Tours in NZ to Choose From

It can be tricky deciding which nature tours in NZ are best suited to you. Are you looking for educational tours, specialized birding experiences or winter whale tours? Perhaps you have your heart set on a private tour or a cruise ship tour in NZ ? No matter, here at E-Ko we've got it covered with a wide range of tours from Picton .

We pride ourselves in offering great customer service, and with our focus on conservation and the local environment, our guests can have a top-quality experience up close with nature. If it's marine mammals you want to see and encounter nature on a cruise then our sturdy boats and skilful captains will navigate you through the tranquil waterways of the Marlborough Sounds where you can mix with endangered Hector's dolphins, dusky and bottlenose dolphins, orcas, New Zealand fur seals, and seasonal cetaceans like southern right and humpback whales.

If you are more of an avian admirer then you must join one of our daily nature and wildlife tours to Motuara Island. The area provides a safe haven for many endangered species that are no longer found anywhere else in New Zealand due to evasive predators. We are the only tour operators to provide fully guided tours on the predator-free island, where you can spot rare and endangered birds such as saddlebacks, melodic bellbirds and yellow-crowned parakeets.

What Makes E-Ko Tours the Best Nature & Wildlife Eco Tour Around New Zealand?

Wildlife holidays in New Zealand can evoke images of wild seas, huge icebergs and crashing whale flukes all around creating an unstable boat and nauseous inclinations. Marlborough Sounds is different. Found on the north-easterly tip of the South Island and thanks to its eternally calm and well-protected crystal blue waterways, seasickness is something we guarantee against - or your money back! Never in the 10 years we've been operating has this guarantee ever been challenged.

Marlborough Sounds is a hive of biodiversity, and thanks to its lush green mountainsides and swell-free waters you will be able to learn about its unique inhabitants and see them up close in their protected environment through our guided Queen Charlotte Tracks and Marlborough walks . Feel free to check out all the best things to do in Picton while you're at it.

What Makes a Dolphin Cruise New Zealand’s Most Special Outing?

There is something about dolphins that makes people happy, and it has a lot to do with the fact that they appear to be happy too. Dolphins are playful creatures that enjoy their own agility. They are the acrobats of the sea, demonstrating the sheer joy of being alive, and that rubs off on all who join a wildlife and dolphin cruise with us. We have been taking people to see dolphins for more than 25 years and all our guides are WCA-certified marine guides. That means they are nature lovers first and foremost, but also extremely knowledgeable and they can answer all your questions.

Is a Dolphin Cruise as Much Fun as it is Educational?

This is one of those wonderful situations where people can learn while they enjoy themselves, and the beauty of it is, that it is ideal for all age groups. Children just love being out on the water – and our no-seasickness guarantee is a testament not just to the placid nature of the sea around here but also to the design of our craft. We want everyone to have a great time and always feel comfortable.

For parents, while they enjoy the experience hugely for themselves, there is the added good feeling of seeing the youngsters happy and engaged out in the fresh air, learning, and having good, healthy fun.

Our Dolphin Watching Tours are a great outing for the whole family, but those who like getting up close with these beautiful creatures, swimming with dolphins might be a lifelong dream come true.

For seniors, a dolphin cruise in New Zealand is a relaxing, non-strenuous way to spend a few hours. Our encounter nature tours are conducted in small groups and lasting friendships are made all the time. There is free chocolate, tea, coffee and yummy biscuits, and you won’t miss anything because your experienced captain and guide will keep up an entertaining commentary, so if there is something you should get over to one side of the boat to see, you will know about it.

For everyone, it is a refreshing experience they will remember forever, and with a camera or a phone with which to capture the sights and sounds, not just of nature but of people having fun, this really is what memories are made of. We also provide FREE high-quality images on our website if you want to just embrace to moment and download our images after the tour, they are yours for FREE. Wherever you live, on a farm or in a sophisticated city, you will find yourself showing everyone what a great time you had.

What Exactly Will We See on a Dolphin Cruise?

We will see some dolphins, that’s 90% sure. Lots of other animals also and we supply FREE Seabird and Dolphin Species Identification cards onboard for you to identify through the expenses binoculars we give you to use. Yes the FREE Autofocus AI binoculars have been a major success as NOW you can see the animals up close, we even give away a FREE t-shirt if you find the Dolphins before us. We just can’t guarantee which Dolphins will favour us with their presence on any given day: Hector’s dolphins, common dolphins, bottlenose or dusky dolphins. There will also be seals around the place and many seabirds going about their business in the air.

What to expect on our Dolphin and Wildlife Cruises?

Every wildlife tour is different from the one before and the one after wether you are going on Dolphin Watching or a Whale Island Tour , but they are all happy and fascinating as you use our FREE equipment to become a Wildlife Expert. Many Endangered Species and nurtured in this sheltered coastal environment with 20% of New Zeland coastline and warm shallow sheltered waters and NO Seasickness.

Discover the best wildlife eco tours New Zealand has to offer - visit our website today! Read less

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New Zealand

Picton Cruise Port

The top of the south island.

Located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, this small town at the top of the South Island, is the port for the Inter Island ferry, as well as a few visiting cruise ships. Take a local small boat cruise to some of the more inaccessible bays or by road to the famous wineries of Marlborough just an hours drive away.

• Standard Tours

PIC-20  |  The Lochmara Experience  |  2.75 hrs

A self- guided version of PIC 19, not including the underwater observatory tour, with more free time to go hiking, paddle boarding, kayaking or a leisurely lunch in our cafe

PIC-16  |  Pet Fish Cruise  |  1.50 hrs

A unique cruise for the whole family where you are immersed in the beauty and natural surroundings of the Sounds. The perfect cruise for those with a limited time frame

PIC-19  |  Lochmara - Once Discovered Never Forgotten  |  2.75 hrs

Nestled in the hills of the beautiful Marlborough Sounds, Lochmara Lodge lets you learn, interact and be captivated by New Zealands native flora, fauna and marine environment. Plus kayaks, paddleboards with self-guided bush walks to hilltop hammocks, view the resident native animals, something for everyone.

PIC-22  |  Marlborough Hop On Hop Off Wine Tour  |  4.00 hrs

Hop On and Hop Off at some of the best Marlborough wineries. Enjoy a commentary from a local guide and relax as you explore this magnificent region while someone else drives!

PIC-2  |  Ship Cove Cruise  |  3.50 hrs

The Morning 9.00-12.30 Ship Cove Cruise gives you a chance to see the best of the Queen Charlotte Sounds, this beautiful cruise takes you as far as Historic Ship Cove, around to Resolution Bay to the Marine reserve, past the salmon farms.

PIC-1  |  Magic Mail Boat Cruise  |  4.50 hrs

Afternoon cruise 1.30pm to 6.00pm, the Mail Run is the ONLY licensed mail service in the Queen Charlotte Sounds, we deliver mail and groceries to some of the remote places in the Sounds. Feed the pet animals along the way while delivering the post. Please note that this trip does NOT operate on Sundays.

PIC-10  |  Wine Gourmet and Scenic Delights Tour  |  6.00 hrs

Your local guide will take you on a tour of discovery to the Marlborough wine region. Taste award winning wines, delicious gourmet treats and view the stunning landscapes as you travel on your small and personal group tour. Excellent WiFi and Fantastic coffee on tap.

Located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, this small town at the top of the South Island, is the port for the Inter Island ferry, as well as a few visiting cruise ships. Take a local small boat cruise to some of the more inaccessible bays or by road to the famous wineries of Marlborough just an hours drive away. Visit the world class Aviation Museum to see rare aircraft at Omaka, perhaps even take a scenic flight in one of their historic aircraft. Picton is a small town with a population of around 3000. The town is named after Sir Thomas Picton, the Welsh military associate of the Duke of Wellington, who was killed at the Battle of Waterloo.

    How far is it to get into Picton town from the cruise ship berth?

Its less than 1 kilometer, so easy to walk if you want to.

    Ships docking at Shakespeare Bay, how do we get to town?

When ships dock in Shakespeare Bay the cruise line offers a free shuttle bus from the Ship to the Memorial steps in the middle of the town centre, close to most of the activities and booking offices. We understand they run approximately every 15-20minutes.

    Ship ETA and ETD does match the tour times, what can we do?

For most tour the tour start and end time can be adjusted to suit the ships arrival time [ETA] or its departure time [ETD], as the tours are run just for the cruise ship passengers. Some tour are also run for the general public [such as water based activities] and these tour can not be adjusted so will not be suitable for you. In such cases a warning is given when you try to book these tours and you should contact us for more information. Please note that cruise ships are now changing their ETA and ETD in port more frequently. If in doubt please contact us to confirm in case of last minute changes.

What you say ...

We did the winery tour down to Blenheim, with a bonus stop at the Omaka Aviation Museum, great vintage planes.

© 2024 Mount Classic Tours Ltd, PO Box 4678, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand Tel: +64 7 574 1779 Fax: +64 7 574 1775 Email: [email protected]

Picton Wine Tours

Looking for a winery tour near me in Picton? Our Picton Wine Tours depart daily. To make it easy for you to book the best winery tour from Picton we have put links below for all our wine tours that depart from Picton. Below those tours are links for our tours that depart Picton on request. Click on the book now button for further information or use the links at the bottom of the page.

Tours start at $170pp and are for singles, couples, groups up to 10 passengers per vehicle – we don’t have any additional surcharges from Picton as other companies do, the Picton rate is what you pay. All tours require a minimum of 2 people to run, so if you are a single give us a call to see if we are able to assist you on

We have over 20 cellar doors  that we can visit on a daily basis so we are sure to be able to help you experience your favourites as well as introduce you to new brands that you are going to fall in love with.

Want to experience the best wine tastings Marlborough has to offer? Join us, and read our reiviews on Trip Advisor and Google which show our experienced team of wine guides know their stuff!

Please Note:  This year we will not be offering tours from Picton over the winter months ( May – Sep) unless you have a group of 4 or more.

Additional info

• Our private tours are a door to door service. We will pick you up from your accommodation in Picton or Blenheim and drop you off after the tour. With this, you can fully enjoy and partake in any wine tasting without having to worry about your drive back.
• While we always let our customers set the pace, with a private tour, we customise it to your wine preference. Make sure to let us know beforehand so we can make sure to visit the wineries you will most enjoy.
• All standard tasting fees for up to six cellars are included, and we can even provide a two-course lunch with wine. However, most guests prefer to have their lunch at one of the vineyards we visit during the day.
• The intimate nature of a private tour puts you and your guests in complete control of the day.
• Transport for private tours is Mercedes E320 sedan or our Mercedes Valente. Both are well-appointed with air conditioning for your comfort.
• We always like to accommodate special requests, and this is much easier on a private tour. Just let us know beforehand, and we will do what we can to ensure that we provide the tour you want.

Our family-run business was one of the first to offer tours of the Marlborough wine region in 1999. Since that time, we have continued to grow with the area and keep up with all the exciting changes so that our customers get the best tour possible while sampling the world-renowned wines made here. Our tour guide’s dedication to providing an entertaining and informative time is equally applicable to our private tours as our standard offerings. If you are interested in learning more about our private wine tours, contact us today.

Had a great time, enjoyed our day and our guide was amazing.

Suzanne Beenen

Great experience would highly recommend. Didn’t know anything about wines and met some lovely people!

Wonderful experience with this professional tour group, and the wineries they selected were fantastic can’t recommend this tour enough.

Megan Graff

Wow, what excellent customer service and what an excellent tour! Thanks.

Hannah Nort

MARLBOROUGH TRIKE TOURS

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              cruiseship arrivals                                   all bookings are made on the day weather permitting                                                                       our office is located at                                                      gateway motel reception                                                               32 high street                                                                       picton                                                   $nzd $aud & $usd accepted                                                                                                                    .

The Ultimate Way to see Picton and surrounding areas.... Whether you prefer a relaxed cruise or an exhilarating blast, you are in for a truly unique experience on our 3 & 5 seater fun machines!

Give us a call to arrange your ultimate ride!!

PICTON TOURS  

Enjoy the thrill and exhilaration of open-air cruising,All while enjoying views of beautiful Picton with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

We have 3 Trikes  3 & 5 Seaters to accommodate groups.

Allow 40 Minutes  $90   per person

Min 2 people

MARLBOROUGH TOURS Travel from Picton through Blenheim wine country to Havelock and back through the Marlborough Sounds .All while enjoying uninterrupted views of the Marlborough region with great photo opportunities along the way. Allow 2.5 - 3 Hours  Full Trike Hire with driver   2 people $250 per hour 3-4 People $350 per hour Extended Tours POA

Wineries & sightseeing tours, choose your own destinations on our  popular scenic tours, or simply sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery of marlborough wine country ..

          Allow at least 2.5 - 4  Hours  Min 2 people

Full Trike Hire with driver  

2 people $250 per hour

3-4 People $350 per hour

Extended Tours POA

                       FAQ'S

What should i wear.

For your comfort we recommend you bring an extra layer with you. It can get a bit windy on the trike. Dress for the weather conditions on the day of your tour.Don’t forget your camera, sunglasses and sunscreen.

How many passengers can you take at a time?

We have multiple Trikes and can seat two - four passengers and the guide. There is a minimum of two people required to book on all trike tours. Unfortunately you cannot drive the Trike.

Can you take children?

Children must be over the age of 5 and accompanied by an adult. New Zealand law requires children under 5-years-old to be restrained in an approved child restraint.

Do I have to wear a seat belt?

Yes.New Zealand law requires you to wear a seat belt while on board the trike.

Do I need to wear a helmet?

No, helmets are not required. Our trikes are registered with the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) as cars, not motorbikes, so three-point seat belts must be worn at all times.

Will I be safe?

Our trikes are subject to strict guidelines and are NZTA compliant. 

All of our drivers are professional, reliable and hold a 'Passenger Endorsement' license.

Where do I meet you?

We are located at 32 High Street Picton

What happens if it’s raining or I can’t make my scheduled tour?

No one likes to get wet (incl our drivers) but sometimes we get caught out & try to finish the tour if possible (its only rain!) We normally make a call on the day.

Do you sell Gift Vouchers?

Yes we have Gift Vouchers for all tours.  Whether, Christmas, Birthday, Father’s or Mother’s Day a ride on a V8 Trike is an unforgettable and memorable experience for all to enjoy

Please note our vouchers are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash.

Do you sell Merchandise?

Yes. We have a selection of T-shirts and merchandise available for sale. 

Can I take photos?

Absolutely. You will be surrounded by pure beauty, so bring your camera. All our tours have photo stops included.

Do you operate during the winter?

Yes, but this is subject to weather and road conditions. 

Are you wheelchair/disability friendly?

Although you cannot take a wheel chair on the trike, we are more than happy to help assist anyone with a disability on to the trike. We want everyone to enjoy the trike and all it has to offer around this spectacular region.

Do you offer customised tours?

Absolutely. We can customise a tour to wherever you may want to go.We also offer customised wine

and beer tours within the region POA.

What currency do you accept?

We accept $NZD $AUD & $ USD

Opening Hours

32 High Street

Gateway Motel 

Marlborough

New Zealand

PHONE 02102639532

INTERNATIONAL PHONE 00642102639532

8am – 8:00 pm

Email:  [email protected]

Marlborough Tour Company

See, taste and experience all the best that Marlborough has to offer with us. Choose from a range of wine tours, seafood cruises and more in this naturally beautiful and fascinating region.

Featured Tours & Cruises

Marlborough Icons Tour

Seafood Odyssea Cruise

Taste Marlborough Tour

Sip Marlborough Wine Tour

Greenshell Mussel Cruise

Charters and Group Tours

Charter a launch, coach, van or sedan and let us make your work trip or special occasion a truly memorable one.

See what others are saying....

Partner experiences.

Cougar Line water transport

Cougar Line, based in Picton, offers water excursions into the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound/Tōtaranui.

Punga Cove accommodation & dining

Eat, drink and stay at Punga Cove in the gorgeous Endeavour Inlet in the Marlborough Sounds.

Furneaux Lodge accommodation & dining

Furneaux Lodge is the perfect place to eat, drink and stay in the Marlborough Sounds' stunning Endeavour Inlet.

Pelorus Mail Boat cruises

Cruise the Pelorus Sound from Havelock as part of the historic mail boat run.

Wilderness Guides

The Queen Charlotte Track in the Marlborough Sounds is known as the finest and most diverse coastal track in New Zealand. Wilderness Guides has been part of the tourism landscape in the Marlborough Sounds for 23 years. We invite you to explore the Marlborough Sounds and Queen Charlotte Track with us.

Check out  @marlboroughtourcompany  on  Instagram  and  Facebook and join in with #marlboroughtourcompany

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THE 10 BEST Picton Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tours & tastings in picton.

• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Sightseeing Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Walking Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tour Including Wine Tasting

2. Discover Marlborough Wine - Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour

3. Marlborough Wine Region Tour from the Port of Picton

4. Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton

5. Cruise Excursion - Wines of Marlborough Tour

6. Full-Day Wine Tour from Picton

7. Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Tour from Picton

8. Full-Day Marlborough Catamaran Cruise with Wine Tour and Lunch

9. Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour

10. Private Marlborough Winery Tour

11. Cruise Ship Shore Tour - Discovery Wine Tour Picton Marlborogh

12. Private Wine Gourmet and Scenic Delights Tour from Picton

13. Private Tour: Winter Wine and Scenic Delights Tour from Picton

14. Private Shore Excursion: Explore Marlborough from Picton

15. Shore Excursion Wine Tour including Lunch from Picton

16. Private Gourmet Winemakers Tour - Picton Cruise Ship Excursion - Max 10 People

17. Private Guided Marlborough Wine Tour From Picton NZ

18. Private Wine Gourmet and Scenic Delights Tour from Blenheim

19. Full-Day Marlborough Scenic and Wine Tour from Blenheim

20. CRUISE SHIP DAY Hop on Hop off Yealands & Marlborough tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Marlborough Discovery Sampler Wine Tour - 1/2Day Blenheim

Self-Guided Biking Wine Tour (full day) in the Marlborough Region.

Half Day Martinborough Winery Tour from Wellington

Marlborough Afternoon Wine Tour with Tastings

Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tour from Blenheim

Martinborough Wine and Wild Coast Tour from Wellington

Best Abel Tasman Day trip

Martinborough Foodie Half Day Tour

Self-guided E-bike cycle tour with private wine tasting

Wellington Craft Brewery Half Day Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tour Including Wine Tasting
• Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton
• Discover Marlborough Wine - half day Tour from Picton or Blenheim
• Full-Day Wine Tour from Picton
• Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour
• Sounds Connection
• Marlborough Trike Tours
• Escape to Marlborough

• Steam Train
• About Marlborough
• Testimonials

 One of the TOP 10% Tours in the world

Awarded “2023 BEST WINE TASTING TOUR – MARLBOROUGH” by APAC-Insider Magazine

“BEST MARLBOROUGH WINE TOUR EXPERIENCE – 2023”  (LuxLife Magazine)

Marlborough Wine Tours !

Fun, informative wine tours through Marlborough made memorable !

Whether you are in Picton or Blenheim, JADE TOURS will host you on a tour to visit some of our world famous cellar doors, to taste some of their incredible wines. Enjoy a fun, flexible and informative tour to give you an insight into the dedication and passion of our wine makers.

BOOK NOW and spoil yourself !

We offer daily small group tours around the wineries of Marlborough, with no rigid timetables. Enjoy some International award-winning wines (“Best Pinot Noir in the World 2019”, “World Champion Sparkling Wine 2020”, “World’s best Savignon Blanc”) and fill the gaps with tasty local produce at our vineyard restaurants.

We can also assist with your travel arrangements, ensure that you are snug at night in the accommodation of your dreams, and help you on your way with your senses and camera filled with cherished memories.

Read a recent blogger’s review from Hollin at Milesgeek HERE

See our range of WINE TOURS  or call (+64)  27 951 1956 for more information

Our Email is  [email protected]

See our reviews above or write your review here Tripadvisor CANCELLATION POLICY : in the event of you needing to cancel your tour, we would be happy to offer a full refund, with a minimum of at least 24 hours notice. Of course we would try to reschedule your day to give you more options

Your tour can include –

• Flights over beautiful Marlborough
• Heritage/culture and Museums
• Scenic wandering
• Transfers (all tours door to door)

Whet your appetite

You’ll have a brilliant time in Marlborough.

Our wines are world-famous, our waters are national treasures, and from the mountains to the sea, your time in Marlborough will be stunning!

Only Marlborough boasts a fifth of New Zealand’s coastline, the country’s largest wine region, and its largest high-country farm. This makes for a fantastic holiday filled with great food, wine and craft beer, and unforgettable experiences in the mountains, among the vineyards or by the sea.

Destination Marlborough

Marlborough Tours

• Cruise the Sounds
• Scenic Flights
• Scenic Marlborough
• Omaka Aviation
• Whales in Kaikoura
• Cruise Ship shore excursions

Your Hosts: Sue & Mike

Phone: (+64) 027 9511956

[email protected]