Marlborough Wine Tours: Catamaran Cruise & Wine Day
Difficulty
easy
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking the vessel.
Overview
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.
Full-Day Marlborough Catamaran Cruise with Wine Tour and Lunch
Ages 18+ • 8 Hours • Lunch Included • Cruise aboard Beachcomber Cruises catamaran
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About This Adventure
Experience the best of Marlborough on this full-day tour, featuring a scenic cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound to Ships Cove, followed by a delightful winery lunch and tastings of world-renowned wines. Enjoy breathtaking vistas and the charm of local Cellar Doors, making for an unforgettable day of exploration and indulgence.
We invite you to have 'The Ultimate Marlborough Day Out'. Cruise on the Marlborough Sounds, Lunch stop at a winery and a relaxing afternoon wine tasting
Duration
8 Hours
About
Combine some of Marlborough's classic activities on this full-day tour: cruising on Queen Charlotte Sound to Ships Cove , enjoy a winery lunch and tasting some of the area's world-renowned wines.
Spend the morning out cruising aboard a Beachcomber Cruises catamaran on a scenic cruise to Ships Cove, then return to Picton and be transferred down to the wine region for a lunch and wine tasting at one of Marlborough's famous Cellar Doors.
Continue the afternoon with more winery visits and tastings.
Please Note: The ships cove cruise also acts a transfer boat for people and their luggage moving on the Queen Charlotte Track and in peak summer season this may mean quite a few luggage transfers where you will be docking at Bays along the return journey to Picton. We hope you enjoy the beautiful vistas in the Bays while waiting to move to the next stop.
What's included
- Cruise to Ships Cove with Beachcomber Cruises
- Single course lunch and glass of wine usually at - Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen
- Wine tasting at 2-3 Wineries
- Transportation and our knowledgeable wine tour guide
Please note
The ships cove cruise also acts a transfer boat for people and their luggage moving on the Queen Charlotte Track and in peak summer season this may mean quite a few luggage transfers where you will be docking at Bays along the return journey to Picton. Hopefully you will be able to spend the time enjoying the beautiful vistas of the Bays.
If you are in Blenheim we pick you up between 8-8.15am for transport to Picton - please choose the Rate : BlenheimIf you are in central Picton you can make your way to the Beachcomber Cruises office by 8.45am. We can pick you up at one of our preloaded locations or type in your pick up address and we will pick you up there.
What do I need to bring
- Hat, jacket, sunglasses, snacks for the morning trip
- Tea and coffee are available on the boat for a small cost.
Please note: A surcharge may apply if you require to be dropped off at a different location
Adventure Tips
Bring Weather Layering
Weather on the Sound can shift quickly—pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and sunglasses.
Book Early for Summer
Peak season can get busy; secure your spot well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Arrive On Time for Check-In
The catamaran departs promptly; plan your arrival to ensure a smooth boarding experience.
Designate a Driver or Use Provided Transport
Wine tastings are included—avoid driving by taking advantage of the tour’s transportation service.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Tūī (native songbird)
- New Zealand fur seals in the Sounds
History
Ships Cove was Captain Cook’s landing site during his 1770s voyage, marking an important point in New Zealand's European exploration history.
Conservation
The area benefits from sustainable tourism practices focused on preserving native forests and water quality to support native wildlife and viticulture.
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Adventure Hotspots in Blenheim
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against occasional spring showers during the cruise.
spring specific
Sunglasses
Necessary for glare from the water and sunny vineyard afternoons.
summer specific
Comfortable Footwear
Needed for walking around cellar doors and boarding the catamaran safely.
Sun Hat
Optional but recommended for sun protection during outdoor stops.
summer specific