Know Before You Go: 09:15am from the i-SITE or call to advise us of your pick up location
Know Before You Go: EFTPOS, Visa, and MasterCard can be used onboard the boat at the licensed bar
Know Before You Go: This tour requires a minimum of 6 people to operate. If minimum numbers are not reached, the traveler will be notified and given the option to reschedule or receive a full refund
Know Before You Go: Please review and acknowledge our Swimming Waiver on our website before participating in any swimming activities. about-us/swimming-waiver/
Cruising the Marlborough Sounds offers a serene escape, allowing visitors to relax amidst tranquil waters and lush native bush. You can learn about the local marine farming industry firsthand and enjoy sampling fresh, locally sourced seafood, experiencing the region's natural beauty and culinary delights.
Yes, Queen Charlotte Sound is one of the main sounds that form the intricate network of waterways within the Marlborough Sounds region. It is a significant and beautiful part of this extensive drowned river valley system on the northern tip of New Zealand's South Island.
While a Marlborough Sounds cruise offers chances to see diverse marine wildlife like dolphins, seals, and various seabirds, spotting a kiwi bird is highly unlikely. Kiwi are nocturnal, very shy, and inhabit dense native bush, making them extremely difficult to observe in the wild during daylight hours.
Marlborough wineries are globally renowned for their exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, characterized by its vibrant, crisp acidity and distinctive notes of passionfruit, gooseberry, and herbaceous aromas. The region also produces excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and aromatic varietals like Riesling and Pinot Gris.
When visiting Marlborough wineries on a tour, you can expect an immersive experience that includes guided tastings of various local wines, often focusing on the region's famous Sauvignon Blanc. Many tours also include a light lunch, allowing you to pair regional cuisine with the wines while enjoying the scenic vineyard landscapes.
When tasting wines at Marlborough wineries, it's generally good etiquette to appreciate each wine's distinct characteristics. Swirl the wine to release aromas, sniff before tasting, and consider spitting rather than swallowing if you're tasting many wines to maintain a clear palate. It's also courteous to engage with the cellar door staff and ask questions.
Marlborough appeals to wine and nature enthusiasts due to its world-class Sauvignon Blanc wines and stunning natural landscapes. The region combines picturesque vineyards with the tranquil, intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds, offering opportunities for wine tasting, scenic cruises, and observing diverse marine wildlife.
During a Marlborough Sounds cruise, visitors can often expect to sample a variety of fresh, local seafood, which may include green-lipped mussels, oysters, and fresh fish. These are typically prepared to highlight their natural flavors, offering a delicious taste of the region's rich marine bounty.