Cruise Ship Day Marlborough – How to Plan Your Tour in Picton

If you’re cruising to Picton, New Zealand, and looking for the perfect way to explore the Marlborough region, the Cruise Ship Day Marlborough tour is an ideal option. In this guide, we’ll show you the best way to plan your tour, from what’s included to what you can expect.

Overview

The Cruise Ship Day Marlborough is an all-encompassing tour that takes you through some of the region’s top spots, particularly the Marlborough Sounds. You’ll get to experience world-class wine and food, as well as picturesque views of the coastline.

What’s Included

With the Cruise Ship Day Marlborough, you’ll ride in an air-conditioned vehicle with experienced and knowledgeable drivers. You’ll receive discounts at some of the locations on the tour, up to 10%, and get to enjoy wine tastings and food pairings.

Meeting and Pickup

If you’re in Picton, you can head directly to the meeting point, which is the Picton iSite Visitor Information Centre on The Foreshore. Alternatively, you can request a pickup from the Port Marlborough New Zealand, which is located at 14 Auckland Street in Picton.

End Point

The tour ends back at the meeting point, so you won’t have to worry about finding your way back from an unfamiliar area.

What to Expect

During the tour, you can expect to visit many different stops along the way, including:

Blue Penguin New Zealand Gifts

Located in the heart of Picton, Blue Penguin New Zealand Gifts offers a unique shopping experience. You can pick up locally made gifts, souvenirs, and mementos for family and friends back home.

Seymour Square

Seymour Square is a beautiful park in Blenheim that’s perfect for a leisurely walk. It offers plenty of green space, picnic areas, and features an impressive fountain at its centre.

Marlborough Museum

The Marlborough Museum is located on the outskirts of Blenheim and showcases the region’s rich history. Here, you’ll find exhibits on early Māori and European settlements, as well as insights into the local te ao Māori, or Māori world.There are many more stops along the way, with something for everyone.

Additional Info

Confirmation of your tour booking will be received at the time of booking, and the activity is not wheelchair accessible. However, it’s close to public transportation and most travellers can take part. The tour can accommodate up to 60 travellers and is operated by Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Marlborough & Queenstown.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before departure on the Cruise Ship Day Marlborough tour.

Conclusion

Overall, the Cruise Ship Day Marlborough is a fantastic way to explore the Marlborough region of New Zealand. It offers knowledgeable drivers, discounts at locations on the tour, wine tastings, and food pairings. By booking your tour, you’ll get to experience some of the most attractive features of the coastline, from Seymour Square to Marlborough Museum.To book your tour, make sure to visit the following link: book the tour here.

Everything You Need to Know About the City of Picton

If you’re planning a trip to the city of Picton, located in the northern part of the South Island of New Zealand, you may have some questions about your upcoming trip. In this post, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about the city of Picton to help make your trip planning a little easier.

1. What Is Picton Known For?

Picton is best known as the gateway to the Marlborough Sounds and the Queen Charlotte Track. The Marlborough Sounds is a collection of drowned river valleys that create a unique landscape of bays, coves, and inlets. The Queen Charlotte Track is a 70-kilometer hiking and mountain biking trail that runs along the ridgeline between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. In addition to outdoor activities, Picton is also home to some great restaurants, bars, and cafes. The town has a laid-back, coastal vibe that draws in visitors looking for a relaxing vacation.

2. How Do I Get to Picton?

Picton is accessible by road, sea, and air. The most common way to get to Picton is by taking the Interislander ferry from Wellington, which takes around 3.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Bluebridge ferry from Wellington, which takes around 4 hours. If you’re driving, Picton is around 25-minutes from Blenheim, the largest town in the Marlborough region, and around 1 hour and 45 minutes from Nelson.If you prefer to fly, the closest airport is Marlborough Airport, which is around 15 minutes from Picton. The airport offers regular flights to Wellington and Christchurch.

3. What Are the Best Things to Do in Picton?

There are plenty of things to do in Picton, from outdoor activities to cultural experiences. Here are a few of the best things to do in Picton:

a. Take a Cruise of the Marlborough Sounds

One of the best ways to experience the Marlborough Sounds is by taking a cruise. There are plenty of cruise options available, from eco-tours to wine-tasting cruises.

b. Hike the Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is a 70-kilometer hiking and mountain biking trail that runs along the ridgeline between Queen Charlotte and Kenepuru Sounds. The track is one of the most scenic walks in New Zealand, with stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds.

c. Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox is the world’s oldest surviving merchant ship and is now home to the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of the ship and the maritime history of the Marlborough region.

d. Take a Winery Tour

The Marlborough region is home to some of the best wineries in New Zealand. A winery tour is a great way to sample some of the region’s best wines and learn about the winemaking process.

4. What Are the Best Places to Eat and Drink in Picton?

There are plenty of great restaurants, bars, and cafes in Picton. Here are a few of the best places to eat and drink in Picton:

a. Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen

Oxley’s Bar & Kitchen is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. The restaurant serves up a variety of dishes, from seafood to burgers, and has a great selection of local wines and craft beers.

b. The Sugarcube

The Sugarcube is a cozy cafe that serves up great coffee and delicious breakfast and lunch dishes. The cafe has a laid-back, coastal vibe and is a great place to relax and unwind.

c. The Barn at Allan Scott Family Winemakers

The Barn at Allan Scott Family Winemakers is a great spot for a winery lunch or dinner. The restaurant serves up a variety of dishes, from seafood to pasta, and has a great selection of local wines.

5. When Is the Best Time to Visit Picton?

Picton is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The summer months (December to February) are the busiest and offer the best weather for outdoor activities. The shoulder seasons (March to May and September to November) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds. The winter months (June to August) can be cold and rainy but are a great time to visit if you prefer indoor activities like wine-tasting and museum visits.

Conclusion

Picton is a charming town that offers plenty of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and great food and drink. We hope this post has answered some of your questions about the city of Picton and helps you plan your upcoming trip.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Picton

Picton is a picturesque coastal town located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand’s South Island. There are plenty of activities and sights to see for tourists in Picton, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.In this guide, we’ll cover all the essential things to see and do as a tourist in Picton. From scenic trails and nature reserves to historic sites and cultural experiences, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

1. Explore the Queen Charlotte Track

The Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular walking tracks in New Zealand, and for good reason. This 71-kilometer trail takes you along the stunning Marlborough Sounds, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.There are various ways to explore the Queen Charlotte Track, ranging from a one-day hike to a multi-day adventure. You can also book guided tours and transport services to make your journey more comfortable.

How to get there:

Starting from Picton, you can take a water taxi or ferry to various points along the Queen Charlotte Track, such as Anakiwa or Ship Cove. You can also drive to the start of the trail and park your car there.

What to bring:

Make sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy walking shoes and warm clothing.

2. Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum is an iconic attraction in Picton, featuring the world’s oldest surviving merchant sailing ship. Built-in 1853, the Edwin Fox has traveled the world, and its history is brought to life through interactive exhibits and guided tours.You can explore the ship’s decks and cabins, learn about life at sea during the 19th century, and see artifacts and displays showcasing the ship’s many voyages.

How to get there:

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum is located on Waikawa Road, a short distance from the center of Picton. You can walk, bike, or drive there.

What to bring:

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera to capture the stunning views from the ship.

3. Take a Wine Tour

The Marlborough region is known for its world-class wines, particularly its Sauvignon Blanc. Taking a wine tour is an excellent way to explore the vineyards and learn about the winemaking process.There are several wine tour operators in Picton, offering guided tours and tastings at some of the region’s most iconic wineries, such as Cloudy Bay, Brancott Estate, and Allan Scott Wines.

How to get there:

Most wine tours will pick you up from your accommodation in Picton or arrange a meeting point.

What to bring:

Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring a hat and sunscreen if you plan to spend time outdoors.

4. Visit the Picton Foreshore

The Picton Foreshore is a beautiful waterfront area dotted with cafes, restaurants, and gift shops. You can take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, relax on the beach, or watch the boats coming and going from the harbor.There are also several public art installations and sculptures to admire, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some of the local marine life, such as seals or dolphins.

How to get there:

The Picton Foreshore is located in the town center, making it easily accessible on foot, bicycle, or car.

What to bring:

Make sure to bring your camera, sunscreen, and hat if you plan to spend time outdoors.

5. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Center is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. This museum features a world-renowned collection of classic aircraft, including replicas of historic planes and modern jets.You can take a guided tour, watch historical reenactments, and explore the museum’s many interactive exhibits and displays.

How to get there:

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Center is located about 5 kilometers south of Picton, and you can drive or take a taxi there.

What to bring:

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the museum’s many exhibits and displays.

Conclusion

Picton is a wonderful destination for tourists looking to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re into hiking, wine tasting, or history, there’s something for everyone in this charming coastal town.From exploring the Queen Charlotte Track to visiting the Omaka Aviation Heritage Center, make sure to add these essential activities to your itinerary for an unforgettable trip to Picton.