Top Picton Shore Excursions

The dramatic coastal scenery of the Marlborough Sounds stretches north of Picton around the top end of the South Island. On this shore excursion, set sail for Lochmara in the Queen Charlotte Sound and look out for wildlife like dolphins, seals, and blue penguins. On arrival, enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the tranquil waters, and explore the Underwater Observatory on a guided walking tour.

Swap the cruise port for a Marlborough wine tour on this shore excursion to a half dozen boutique wineries or more. When your ship pulls into Picton, travel by minivan through this notable wine region in the South Island, sipping award-winning New Zealand wines and sampling delectable chocolates. Opt for extra time to taste wine and purchase a seasonal gourmet lunch on this small-group tour, limited to 11 people for an intimate experience.

When your cruise ship arrives in Picton, take advantage of a half-day excursion that introduces you to four Marlborough wineries handpicked by a guide. On this small-group tour you’ll taste the region’s sauvignon blanc and pinot noir, stroll through Blenheim vineyards, and sample boutique chocolates. Round-trip minivan transport is provided from the nearby i-SITE.

When your cruise ship docks in Picton, take the opportunity to go wine tasting on a tour that visits some of Marlborough’s award-winning wineries. Visit up to five wineries in Blenheim for tastings and vineyard tours, discovering both internationally famous wines and lesser-known New Zealand gems. You’ll also stop for lunch (own expense) and sample locally made chocolates as you head back to Picton at the end of your tour.

Visit several wineries in the Marlborough wine region on a half-day tour from Picton. Enjoy wine tasting at each location, and learn about New Zealand's prolific wine industry from your guide on this comprehensive wine tour.

Use your mobile device to download an MP3 audio guide and map for a self-guided walking tour of Picton. Step off your cruise ship or ferry into the postcard-perfect seaside town and take a cultural journey into Picton’s past. With informative narration you’ll learn about the Māori people, whaling history, and more.

Personal & Small Visiting a variety of different Locations Taste Beautiful Greenlipped Mussels Visit Pelorus Bridge Hobbitt Location Scene

Hop on board for the very best of Marlborough's Highlights. Your onshore excursion will include spectacular scenic views, great tasting wines, gourmet treats and a choice of heritage options at the Omaka Aviation Centre.  Omaka Heritage Aviation Centre is one of the highlights of this tour and is an optional activity. An amazing spectacle of Peter Jackson;s classic aircraft in replica real life displays on WW1 and WW2 events. Rejoin the tour after a two hour experience. Combine your tour with Marlborough wine tasting, along with tastings of local cheese, manuka honey, boutique chocolates and more.... Light refreshment of local produce is not included but a treat you should not miss.   

Experience the Marlborough wine region in a special way with a private group tour that lets you choose your own adventure. Your local and knowledgeable chauffeur guides you from Picton port through the scenic Wairu Valley to Marlborough’s wine tasting region, on a tour tailored for you. Visit local wineries with wine tasting, gourmet snacks and chocolate treats all included. This flexible tour allows you to choose the journey and can include attractions such as a visit to local galleries, beautiful gardens, and tasting delicious boutique chocolate at Makana Confections.

Spend time at the EcoWorld Aquarium & Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre when your cruise ship pulls into port in Picton. You’ll see ancient reptiles called tuataras and get acquainted with little blue penguins rescued from the Marlborough Sounds. On-site staff take you behind the scenes to discover New Zealand’s conservation in action.

Discover the award-winning wines of the Marlborough region on a private shore excursion from Picton for your group of up to six people. The exact itinerary is tailored to you, with plenty of time to sip locally-made wines, browse art galleries, then pause for lunch and views of Marlborough's rolling vineyards, plus many customizable options. Pricing is per-vehicle, and includes a wine tasting and a chocolate tasting, as well as round-trip shuttle transport from the Port of Picton.

Tour participants see the full grandeur of the Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds in one experience that can only be done by air. And get to stop by a remote beach to soak up the wilderness.

A unique chance to book a large group coach experience from the Port of Picton, 49 seats are available to book your family and friends or gather others from the cruise ship to join you in a custom wine and gourmet scenic tour. This tour is not provided per seat. You have the exclusive use of the coach for the day. A minimum group of 20 people to a maximum of 49 people are offered a private and exclusive tour of Marlborough and the wine region plus a chance to taste local gourmet treats and cuisine. You have a private local chauffeur who will share stories of the region and ensure you have an exciting experience. Come and enjoy an exciting and fun day in Marlborough. Note that the rate offered is a day rate and split between the number of people in the group. This program will only register and show maximum 15 seats - please ignore this. You have up to 49 seats for your group. - 20 $129.75NZD p seat and 49 $52.95NZD p seat. One payment is required to secure this tour.of $2595.00 NZD.

Taste the wines of the Marlborough region on a full-day tour from Picton. You'll visit six or seven wineries and a boutique chocolate factory, and have time to purchase lunch at a winery restaurant. Your tour includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation in central Picton.