Marlborough Wine Tours: Picton Shore Excursion Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly seated travel with short walking at wineries.
Overview
Discover the essence of New Zealand’s Marlborough wine region in a seamless 5.5-hour shore excursion from Picton. Visit four wineries and savor iconic Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, all tailored for cruise passengers.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Seamless Shuttle Transfers
If you're arriving by cruise ship, catch the shuttle bus to the Picton i-Site early to join the pickup smoothly.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll do light walking at multiple cellar doors, so bring comfortable, flat footwear suitable for vineyard terrain.
Prepare for Wine Tastings
Drink plenty of water and pace yourself to fully enjoy multiple tastings over the course of the day.
Bring a Light Jacket
Weather can vary—even in summer—so layering helps keep you comfortable during stops outdoors.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Kea parrots in nearby alpine areas
- Occasional sightings of native fantails fluttering through vineyards
History
Marlborough’s wine industry took off in the 1970s, transforming previously sheep-grazing lands into world-famous vineyards.
Conservation
Many local wineries follow sustainable viticulture practices to protect Marlborough’s fragile soil and water resources.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear is important for walking on uneven vineyard grounds.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout wine tastings on warm days.
summer specific
Light jacket or layers
Layering helps adjust to varying outdoor temperatures during stops.
all specific
Sunscreen
Protect exposed skin during outdoor vineyard visits.
spring|summer|fall specific