How to Experience the Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise

If you are planning a trip to Picton, New Zealand, you cannot miss the opportunity to experience the Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing cruise. This exhilarating journey takes you through the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds where you can also spot local wildlife and seabirds along the shores and dolphins in the water. This ultimate guide will give you everything you need to know about the tour, from highlights to booking details.

Highlights

Here are some of the highlights of the Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise that you should know before booking:

Discover the Beauty of the Queen Charlotte Sounds

The Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise is the perfect way to discover the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. You will see some of the most scenic ecosystems in the South Pacific, with lush greenery, pristine waters, and a diverse range of wildlife.

Look for Local Wildlife and Seabirds

During the cruise, keep an eye out for New Zealand fur seals, penguins, dolphins, and seabirds. The Marlborough Sounds region is home to many rare and unique species, and you may even spot some that you’ve never seen before.

Learn About the Queen Charlotte Sounds from Your Skipper

The knowledgeable local skipper will explain the significance of the Queen Charlotte Sounds on this trip, which makes it easy to understand the importance of this area. You can learn about the history, ecology, and geology of this region, which will enhance your experience.

Cruise into Double Cove Lochmara Bay and Onahau Bay in Queen Charlotte Sounds

The tour includes a cruise to Double Cove Lochmara Bay and Onahau Bay in Queen Charlotte Sounds. These sheltered harbors are surrounded by lush vegetation, attractive vacation homes, and lively local fish.

Great Option for Those Short on Time or Stopping in Picton on a Cruise Ship

If you have limited time in Picton, the Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise is a fantastic option. The tour is designed not to take too much time while you discover the beauty and serenity of the Marlborough Sounds.

Experience

The Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise is an hour-long boat ride from Picton, which crosses the main reach of Queen Charlotte Sounds. You will be able to take in stunning views of the surrounding area on the journey. Once you arrive at Double Cove, the boat will navigate through the picturesque harbor where you can feed fish from onboard the boat. The skipper will also provide a wealth of information about the area’s history, ecology, and geology during the cruise.

What’s Included and Not Suitable for the Tour

The tour includes a sightseeing cruise, hotel/cruise ship pickup and drop-off, and food and drink, making it a comprehensive and unforgettable experience. However, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the need to climb on or off the boat.

How to Book

Booking the Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise is easy. Follow the link to get started: Book the tour here. The link takes you to a page where you can learn more about the tour, its availability and pricing, and then easily book online.

Book Your Tour Now

The Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise is a must-have experience while in Picton, allowing you to truly experience the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds. From stunning sights to incredible wildlife and a knowledgeable skipper, there is so much to enjoy in just an hour. If you are looking for the best way to discover the beauty and serenity of the Marlborough Sounds, be sure to book your Picton Queen Charlotte Sounds Sightseeing Cruise today.

Frequently Asked Questions about Picton

If you’re planning a trip to Picton or are already there, you might have some questions about the city. Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions.

1. What is Picton?

Picton is a small waterfront town located in Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada. It is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions.

2. How do I get to Picton?

The easiest way to get to Picton is by car. It is located approximately 2 hours east of Toronto and 3 hours west of Montreal. If you don’t have access to a car, you can take a bus or train to nearby Belleville and then take a taxi or shuttle to Picton.

3. What are the best things to do in Picton?

There are many fun and interesting things to do in Picton, depending on your interests. Some popular attractions include:

• Visiting Sandbanks Provincial Park
• Taking a wine tour of the local wineries
• Exploring the historic Crystal Palace
• Visiting the Mariners Park Museum
• Going on a boat tour of the Bay of Quinte
• Shopping at the weekend farmer’s market

4. When is the best time to visit Picton?

The best time to visit Picton is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is warmest and there are the most outdoor activities and events happening. However, if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience, you might enjoy visiting during the fall or spring when there are fewer tourists around.

5. What are some good restaurants in Picton?

Picton has a great food scene, with many excellent restaurants serving up delicious dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Some popular options include:

• The Acoustic Grill
• The County Canteen
• Flame & Smith
• The Vic Café
• The Courage Bar
• Hartley’s Tavern

6. Where is the best place to stay in Picton?

There are many great places to stay in Picton, depending on your preferences and budget. Some popular options include:

• The Waring House
• The Manse Boutique Inn
• The Ferg
• The Edwardian Inn
• The Drake Motor Inn
• The Prince Edward County Inn

7. How can I explore Picton?

One of the best ways to explore Picton is on foot or by bike. The town is small enough to walk around, and there are many scenic bike routes to enjoy. Another option is to take a guided tour of the area by car or bus. Many local tour companies offer wine, food, and sightseeing tours.

8. What is the weather like in Picton?

Picton has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in the summer range from 18-26°C (64-79°F), while average temperatures in the winter range from -3-3°C (27-37°F). It is important to pack appropriate clothing for the season if you plan to visit.

9. Is Picton family-friendly?

Yes, Picton is a great destination for families. There are many activities and attractions that kids will enjoy, such as Sandbanks Provincial Park, the Prince Edward County Farm Centre, and the Picton Splash Pad. Many restaurants also offer kid-friendly menus.

10. What is the currency used in Picton?

The currency used in Picton is Canadian Dollars (CAD). It is recommended to exchange currency before arriving or withdrawing it from a local ATM. Most businesses also accept credit cards, but it is always best to have cash on hand for smaller purchases.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Picton

Located in the Marlborough region in the northern part of the South Island of New Zealand, Picton is a charming seaside town that offers a range of activities and attractions for tourists. From cultural tours to outdoor adventures, you’ll never run out of things to do in Picton. In this article, we’ve put together a guide on how to spend your time in Picton as a tourist.

1. Take a Scenic Hike

Picton has many picturesque hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One of the most popular trails is the Queen Charlotte Track, which is a 70km hike through native forests and along the coastline. You can hire a guide or do the hike independently over several days, staying in overnight accommodation along the way. Other enjoyable hikes include the walking tracks at the Victoria Domain, including the Snout Track and the Tirohanga Track.

2. Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox is the world’s second-oldest surviving merchant ship and is now a museum located in Picton. You can take a tour of the ship and learn about its long and varied history, which includes transporting convicts to Australia, carrying troops to India, and being used as a freezer ship in New Zealand. The museum also has a collection of maritime artefacts and exhibits about the history of shipping in New Zealand.

3. Explore the Marlborough Sounds

The Marlborough Sounds are a network of sea-drowned valleys that offer some of the most scenic boating and kayaking opportunities in New Zealand. You can join a guided boat tour or hire a kayak to explore the sounds independently. There are also several secluded bays and beaches where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

4. Take a Wine Tour

The Marlborough region is known for its world-class wines, especially Sauvignon Blanc. There are over 40 wineries in the area, many of which offer cellar door tastings and tours. You can join a guided wine tour or rent a bike and explore the vineyards at your own pace.

5. Visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre

The Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre is a world-class museum that showcases the history of aviation in New Zealand. The centre has a collection of over 30 vintage aircraft, including replicas of World War I planes, as well as exhibits about the pilots who flew them. The museum is also home to a collection of movie props from director Sir Peter Jackson’s film productions.

6. Enjoy Local Cuisine

Picton has a range of restaurants and cafes that offer delicious local cuisine. Seafood is a specialty, with dishes such as green-lipped mussels, salmon, and crayfish being popular choices. You can also sample local cheeses and olives, as well as sip on award-winning wines from the Marlborough region.

7. Take a Whale Watching Tour

The waters around Picton are home to a variety of marine life, including whales, dolphins, seals, and penguins. You can join a whale watching tour to see these incredible creatures up close. Many tours guarantee sightings of humpback whales, orcas, and other species.

8. Visit the Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum

The Picton Heritage and Whaling Museum displays the town’s history and heritage, including its whaling industry. You can learn about the old whaling station and the techniques used to hunt whales, as well as see relics and artefacts from the past.

9. Relax on the Beach

Picton has several beautiful beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. Shelley Beach is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking, while Bob’s Bay is a secluded beach that can only be accessed by boat or foot.

10. Take a Fishing Trip

Fishing is a popular activity in Picton, and there are many charter boats available for hire. You can fish for snapper, kingfish, and other species, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing for marlin and tuna.

Final Thoughts

Picton is a charming town that offers a range of activities and attractions for tourists. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural tours, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s something for everyone in Picton. We hope this guide has given you some ideas on how to spend your time in this beautiful part of New Zealand. Happy Travels!