What age groups can join this tour?

The tour is suitable for ages 6 to 80 years, accommodating families and older travelers alike.

Is the cruise accessible for people with limited mobility?

While the boat and picnic areas are manageable, some walking on natural paths is required and may not be suitable for all mobility levels.

Are meals provided during the trip?

Yes, a gourmet picnic featuring local produce is included, served in a scenic outdoor setting.

What wildlife might I see on this trip?

Look for fur seals along the coast and native birds within the forested walks.

Do I need to bring my own gear?

Guests should bring weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, sun protection, and a water bottle; the company supplies picnic meals and transport.

How long is the entire cruise and walk?

The experience lasts about 10 hours, combining boat cruising, coastal walking, and return driving.

Golden Bay Adventure with Wine Art and Wilderness

Golden Bay in New Zealand’s South Island offers a raw and vibrant outdoor playground defined by its rugged coastline, crystal-clear springs, and lush native forest. Wine Art and Wilderness delivers a standout day trip with their Cruise to Golden Bay, perfectly suited for travelers wanting a deeper connection to Abel Tasman National Park and its stunning natural neighbors. Starting in Nelson, guests are driven across the scenic Waimea Plains and Moutere Hills to Kaiteriteri, the gateway to Abel Tasman. Here, a boat cruise traces the entire northern coastline of the park, revealing panoramic views of glittering beaches, secluded coves, and thriving fur seal colonies lounging on sun-warmed rocks.

After landing at Tōtaranui, the tour transitions from sea to land with a guided walk through subtropical rainforests and along golden sand shores. Unique geological features come into sharp focus here, from striking granite and marble formations around Takaka Hill to the world-renowned clarity of Te Waikoropupū Springs, a natural wonder known for its pure, crystal-clear waters. The journey is punctuated by a gourmet picnic featuring local produce, inviting travelers to taste the region’s rich flavors amid breathtaking landscapes.

The return trip over Takaka Hill offers sweeping vistas over Golden Bay, Abel Tasman National Park, and Tasman Bay, giving a final moment to absorb the area's expansive beauty. This trip is unique for blending coastal cruising, ecological discovery, and cultural insights, all led by deeply knowledgeable guides focused on sustainable travel practices.

For outdoor adventurers who appreciate natural diversity and respectful immersion, Wine Art and Wilderness stands out as a trusted partner bringing the best of Golden Bay’s terrestrial and marine environments into a single unforgettable day.

About Wine Art and Wilderness

Wine Art and Wilderness operates guided tours across Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, Abel Tasman, Kahurangi and Golden Bay, offering a blend of wine, art and nature experiences. The operator curates day tours and multi-activity adventures that bring guests into family-owned and boutique vineyards, vibrant local galleries and nationally significant natural landscapes.

Tours include vineyard tastings and vineyard lunches, opportunities to meet passionate winemakers, gallery and studio visits that showcase local artists, scenic cruises along Abel Tasman’s coastline, guided coastal and forest walks, and kayak options that explore pristine beaches and marine life. Several itineraries highlight regional features such as the Pelorus River, Te Waikoropupū Springs, Lake Rotoiti and the Moutere Hills. The program also visits notable creative hubs and artists’ studios, including stops that reference prominent local practitioners.

Each trip emphasizes storytelling and local knowledge: guides share regional history, winemaking practices and artistic context while navigating natural environments like beech forest, alpine slabs and coastal reserves. Wildlife encounters cited in tour descriptions include dolphins, fur seals and native bird species. Activities range from relaxed tastings to moderate hikes and multi-mode adventures combining boat, kayak and walking segments.

Information about each itinerary — from wine tours in Nelson and Marlborough to Abel Tasman Water & Walk and Alpine Splendour in Kahurangi — is presented so travelers can match interests, activity level and seasonal considerations. The offering appeals to guests seeking immersive regional experiences that combine culture, cuisine and wild landscapes.