Private Shore Excursion: Explore Marlborough from Picton

Picton , New Zealand

Private Shore Excursion: Explore Marlborough from Picton

Active

(4 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Relax with the flexibility of your exclusive tour of the Marlborough wine region. Taste sensational wines and partake of some of the most delicious gourmet treats. Enjoy the wineries or mix and match the day with exciting options.

From the Port of Picton your local chauffeur/guide will meet you at the Picton Visitors Centre near the vehicle to take you on a scenic journey through to Blenheim and the famous wine region. Savour our local cuisine in a winery garden café or enjoy a wine with a cheese, meat, seafood platter overlooking our stunning Wairau Valley. Later, visit a chocolate boutique.

Ride with peace of mind with flexible drop off to suit your ships scheduled departure.

This tour has been created due to the demand for larger but small personal groups of a maximum of 11. A comfortable 11 seat Mini Tour Van is provided for your pleasure.

Available options

6-8 Seats Mini Private Group

Mini Van<br/>6-8 Seats Mini Group: Wine Gourmet and Scenic Mini Group Tour for 6-8 seats<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Snacks

Driver/guide

Basic wine tasting fees

Convenient complimentary bus shuttle to your tour vehicle and back to ship

Complimentary chocolates

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Detailed itinerary

Delectable tastings of this amazing treat. Always a popular stop before heading back to the ship

Award winning wines on tasting and sales. Savour the best of Marlborough's Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals or stop for a Michelin style platter of local cuisine.

A variety of many things for you. Whitehaven Wines, Roots Gin, a great brewery of Golden Mile Beer on tap. Cafe with wine and food match options and relax over looking a pretty lake towards the Vineyard hills.

Speciality Wines and a talented family of winemakers

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Lunch at own cost due to varying appetites

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cut off time for booking has been set for 4 hours prior to tour departure. Due to advance bookings being required for additional activities. However booking is flexible up to an hour prior to tour departure.

Minimum drinking age is 18 years

At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time

Your tour guide provides an 11 seat vehicle for these smaller private groups of 7 up to a maximum of 11.

Worry-free Shore Excursion: We will ensure your excursion ends with ample time for you to return to the Picton Port for your ship’s departure. In the extreme unlikely event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Important notes

• If you have not already specified, you MUST advise supplier as soon as possible your Ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and departure time so that appropriate arrangements can be made
• Minimum drinking age is 18 years

Your Local Chauffeur will meet you 15 minutes prior to Tour start time at the vehicle located in the Picton Visitors Centre car Park with a signboard "Your Local Chauffeur" and with your name. The Car Park is only 30 seconds walk from the bus stop. Feel free to call Your Local Chauffeur on +64 22018 2470.

If you dock at Waitohi Wharf (and there is no bus shuttle), it is a 2 minute walk to the Picton Visitors Centre where you will meet your chauffeur in the car park. Alternatively you may request the Wharf Security to call us to collect you at the ship if required.

About Picton

Picton is a charming coastal town in New Zealand's South Island, known as the gateway to the stunning Marlborough Sounds. It offers a unique blend of maritime history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Top Attractions

Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a network of ancient sunken river valleys and coastal bays, offering stunning scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to multiple days Free to Moderate

Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum houses the world's second-oldest surviving merchant sailing ship, offering a glimpse into Picton's maritime history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of New Zealand's Great Walks, offering breathtaking views, coastal scenery, and diverse wildlife.

Adventure 3-5 days Moderate to Expensive

Must-Try Local Dishes

Green-lipped Mussels

A New Zealand delicacy, these large, sweet mussels are often steamed or grilled and served with garlic and herbs.

Dinner Seafood, gluten-free options available

Sourdough Bread

Picton is known for its artisanal sourdough bread, made with local ingredients and traditional methods.

Breakfast/Lunch Vegetarian, gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Kayaking Hiking Whale watching Wine tasting Beach walks Café hopping Visiting museums Exploring historic sites

Best Time to Visit

December to February

Summer is the peak season with warm temperatures, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. However, it's also the busiest time with more tourists.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Maori
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Time Zone

GMT+12

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Picton is generally a safe destination, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable tour operators
• Be cautious of wildlife when hiking

Getting there

By air

Blenheim Airport • 30 km
Wellington Airport • 80 km

By bus

Picton Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Picton has a small local bus service that connects the town to nearby attractions and ferry terminals.

Taxis

Available • Apps: None available

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Picton Town Center Waikawa Bay

Day trips

Blenheim and the Marlborough Wine Region

30 km • Full day

Blenheim is the heart of the Marlborough wine region, offering world-class wineries, historic sites, and scenic landscapes.

Kaikoura

120 km • Full day

Kaikoura is known for its whale watching, dolphin encounters, and stunning coastal scenery.

Festivals

Marlborough Wine and Food Festival • February Picton Cruising Club Regatta • January

Pro tips

Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons
Rent a car for flexibility in exploring the Marlborough Sounds and surrounding areas
Pack layers as the weather can be unpredictable
Try local seafood and Marlborough wines
Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum for a glimpse into Picton's rich history