THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Set sail on Queen Charlotte Sound and savor world-class wines on this full-day Marlborough tour. Enjoy a catamaran cruise, a vineyard lunch, and tastings at some of the region’s best cellar doors.
Set sail on Queen Charlotte Sound and savor world-class wines on this full-day Marlborough tour. Enjoy a catamaran cruise, a vineyard lunch, and tastings at some of the region’s best cellar doors.
Book with Marlborough Wine Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
327 ratings
Operated by Marlborough Wine Tours · Blenheim, Marlborough
Marlborough, on New Zealand’s South Island, is a landscape defined by its rugged Sounds and sprawling vineyards, a region that effortlessly marries outdoor adventure with world-class wine. Marlborough Wine Tours offers an immersive full-day experience combining scenic maritime passage with indulgent wine tastings, providing a day-long journey through Queen Charlotte Sound and beyond.
This tour begins aboard a sleek Beachcomber Cruises catamaran, cutting through the shimmering waters of Queen Charlotte Sound toward Ships Cove, a sheltered inlet framed by dense native bush and dramatic hillsides. The Sound’s calm, deep waters reflect the sky, while pockets of bays and inlets reveal subtle ecological richness, including native birdlife such as tūī and fantails. Ships Cove itself carries historical weight—Captain Cook first landed here in the 1770s, marking it as a gateway to New Zealand’s early European exploration.
Upon returning to Picton, guests transition to the lush Marlborough wine region, renowned globally for its crisp Sauvignon Blanc and complex Pinot Noir. The tour’s highlight is a single-course vineyard lunch paired with premium local wines, typically hosted at the acclaimed Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen, set amid orderly rows of vines and rolling hills. From there, the afternoon unfolds with visits to two or three diverse cellar doors, ranging from boutique family-run wineries to larger estates. Each stop offers a unique window into the region’s viticulture and winemaking philosophy.
Marlborough Wine Tours stands out for expertly blending natural beauty, maritime adventure, and viticultural excellence—all with knowledgeable guidance. The combination of sparkling waters, native scenery, thoughtful wine selections, and relaxed transport logistics makes this tour a distinctive way to experience Marlborough’s outdoor heritage and gastronomic culture. Whether you’re a wine lover, a nature enthusiast, or a lover of both, this day-long tour provides an authentic and comprehensive taste of New Zealand’s premier wine country.
easy.
8 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking the vessel.
No, the winery visits vary daily, featuring a mix of large, family-owned, and boutique vineyards to provide a well-rounded experience.
Due to group size limits set by Cloudy Bay, this winery is rarely visited on peak season group tours, but alternatives among 20+ cellar doors are offered.
With over 20 years of operation, they combine certified professionalism, comprehensive knowledge, and fun guided experiences compliant with all New Zealand regulations.
Online bookings have cut-offs, but calling +64 3 574 2889 may get you access if last-minute spots are available.
Outside peak season, requests can often be accommodated. During busy periods, pre-booked visits are necessary; a private tour is recommended for customized stops.
Tours require a minimum of two people to run, but solo travelers may join existing bookings or receive assistance by contacting the company.
Ships Cove was Captain Cook’s landing site during his 1770s voyage, marking an important point in New Zealand's European exploration history.
The area benefits from sustainable tourism practices focused on preserving native forests and water quality to support native wildlife and viticulture.
Marlborough Wine Tours is a Picton-based operator offering guided wine experiences across the Marlborough region. The company runs a range of curated itineraries from half‑day visits to full‑day programs that combine cellar‑door tastings, winery lunches and scenic cruising in Queen Charlotte Sound. Tours depart from Picton and Blenheim and include small‑group options limited to 11 guests as well as private guided tours for two to six people. Guided experiences cover four to six cellar doors per itinerary with opportunities to sample flagship varieties such as Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, plus optional gin and beer tastings. Transport varies by product and includes climate‑controlled minivans, chauffeur‑driven Mercedes SUVs and a full‑day catamaran cruise that links Picton to coastal winery locations like Ships Cove. Shore excursion options are tailored for cruise passengers and include timely returns. On half‑day and full‑day tours guests walk through vineyards, learn local winemaking history from experienced guides and enjoy regional produce at winery restaurants or shared platters. Private tours offer flexible departure times, bespoke winery selections and the freedom to set the pace across up to six cellar doors. Marlborough Wine Tours emphasizes local knowledge, structured itineraries and live commentary to deliver an informative tasting experience. The operator’s mix of small-group and private products, combined with multiple departure points and clear notes about cruise‑ship timing, supports confident booking for visitors seeking reputable Marlborough wine tasting and cellar‑door discovery. Booking information and pickup options are available for central Picton and central Blenheim accommodations. Please check availability before booking.
Book with Marlborough Wine Tours