New Zealand · MARLBOROUGH WINE AND THE SOUNDS
17 reviewed
Here are the 15 best marlborough wine & sounds tours anywhere in New Zealand, set out with the price, the running time and the town each one leaves from. The one at the top earned its place.
Join a working mail boat in Queen Charlotte Sound, with live skipper stories, remote deliveries, and chances to spot dolphins and seals.
“Excellent trip. Ian, our skipper, was outstanding in imparting knowledge and making the outing thoroughly enjoyable. His people skills are top drawer too.”
Six-hour small-group Marlborough wine tasting from Picton or Blenheim, with vineyard walks, multiple pours, and scenic winery stops.
“Gaven made it fun! Great selection of wineries. Very enjoyable and happy day! Would repeat the experience.”
Scenic 1-way ferry from Wellington to Picton across Cook Strait, with 2x23kg baggage and deck views of Queen Charlotte Sound.
“It was really a great experience including crew giving all information in detail about the whales and dolphins . Crew was really caring”
Cruise from Picton to Ship Cove, then hike part of the Queen Charlotte Track. Choose 12.7 or 17 km routes and watch for dolphins.
“We loved the amazing views along the tract, with little waterfalls/creekbeds along the way. Not much climbing, so very enjoyable.”
Ride the Great Journeys Coastal Pacific one-way from Picton to Christchurch, with Kaikoura and ocean views, plus GPS audio and café snacks.
“Comfortable seats with beautiful views. Coastal views amazing. Good food and snacks. Very nice workers onboard. Downside, just this run were AC made it too cold and the train was 20+ minutes late which meant it was dark when we arrived. Also to know, the outdoor viewing car had no seating so I’d standing is an issue don’t go out there.”
Do a Queen Charlotte Sound mail boat run from Picton. See remote coves, wildlife, and how communities get supplies.
“A fabulous trip with great views and commentary. A great way to see the Sound and understand the environment.”
Small-group Marlborough winemakers tour from Blenheim. Door-to-door pickup, working winery tastings, beer and chocolate stops, 4 to 6 visits.
“We had a had a terrific day with Cam, who was our knowledgable guide through five wineries (and a wonderful lunch). We learned a lot and enjoyed fabulous wines, not least the region's famed Sauvignon Blanc. Highly recommended!”
3-hour cruise from Picton to Ship Cove in the Marlborough Sounds, with live commentary, Captain Cook sites, and dolphin sightings.
“Such a fun time. Despite not being super sunny the information and different areas of the sound was super fun. Our tour guides was also very cool to talk to and made the experience even more fun!”
InterIslander ferry Picton to Wellington for a scenic Cook Strait crossing, big baggage allowance, deck views, and easy arrival in the capital.
“Booked the ferry to link the great journeys from picton to Wellington. I booked the premium lounge which included all food and drink and very comfortable surroundings for the entire crossing. The food was delicious! Beautiful views from tRead more”
Cycle Marlborough at your own pace with bike, helmet, map, and hotel transfers. Flat routes, many tastings nearby, and flexibility all day.
“The place I wanted to visit most for pinot gris was only accessible by taxi, so I gave up. The staff recommended wineries for Pinot Gris. I liked it so much that I bought two. The staff are very kind. thank you very much”
Self-guided cycling in Marlborough with free pickup, e-bikes and tandems, a wine map, and easy winery hopping near Blenheim.
“Really great thing to do, vineyards are in close proximity and all offer a unique experience doing it on bikes makes it even more fun”
Small-group Marlborough afternoon tour from Picton or Blenheim with 4 winery tastings, expert guides, and included transfers, 4-5 hours.
“A good little tour a short drive from Picton to the Marlborough area, really well hosted in a comfortable Mercedes van and always wonderful to learn/experience/taste wine in the Region it’s grown. Highly recommended.”
Half-day Marlborough Sounds cruise from Picton to Motuara Island, spotting dolphins and fur seals, plus a guided, predator-free bird walk.
“This is more focused on birds and less on dolphins. Why we saw two dolphins. Fifteen minutes out of four hours was focused on the dolphins. Bird watching was outstanding. Many varieties. The island has a steep walk to the top The guide Will was outstanding. Extremely knowledgeable and fun. Dan the boat driver maneuvered the boat to allow everyone to view the birds.”
Hobbit-themed Pelorus River rafting from Havelock, with Smaug filming spots, milling and mining stories, and wetsuits plus safety gear.
“We had a great time kayaking! Jade was a wonderful guide. There is a shower and hair dryer available if you decide to swim. I would definitely recommend!”
Small-group Picton-to-Marlborough wine tasting with port pickup, 4-5 cellar doors, vineyard walks, and chocolate, timed for your cruise.
“Great tour, fantastic driver. We visited 4 wineries and a chocolate shop. The valley is beautiful. Highly recommended.”
Keep browsing
