Marlborough Sounds Must Do's

For stunning views of the Marlborough Sounds on a tight schedule, try the three-hour return Snout Track. Starting in Victoria Domain, every step presents a gorgeous vista.

SHIP COVE/MERETOTO Sheltered Ship Cove was a favourite anchorage bay for Captain James Cook. It also marks the start of the 72km Queen Charlotte Track. Day cruisers depart Picton, enjoying short stopovers and quick dips in the warm, inviting water.

Ship Cove/Meretoto, Marlbororough Sounds © MarlbororoughNZ

QUEEN CHARLOTTE TRACK Hike or bike this 72km/three to five-day track skimming native bush and coastline. There are many entry points accessible by boat, which can also transport kayaks and bikes.

MOTUARA ISLAND SCENIC RESERVE Sail, kayak or join a scenic cruise from Picton to this predatorfree motu, where visitors are greeted by a symphony of birdsong. Walk to the elevated lookout for startling views.

FRENCH PASS The drive to French Pass is easily one of the country’s most picturesque.

D’URVILLE ISLAND The French Pass’ body of water separates D’Urville Island from the mainland. Book a water taxi and spend the day on the island. Overnight stays are also available.

DOLPHIN SPOTTING TOURS depart from Picton. Between October and November, orca whales are also spied in the water.

UNDERWATER OBSERVATORY AT LOCHMARA BAY Part of Lochmara Lodge, a permanent underwater observatory monitors aquatic comings and goings. Fully guided 40-minute tours run four times a day (once a day in May) and include stingray feeding. Check ahead for changes to tours.

FISHING Quiet, sheltered bays and calm water allow for smaller vessels such as kayaks and dinghies as well as larger fishing charters. The fish are year-round ample, simply let the skipper take you to the best spots. The wharves are also teeming with smaller fish – ideal for fishing with kids.

KATABATIC CHARTERS Jump aboard for a culinary cruise, with seafood sourced directly from your surroundings – guests can help collect the clams and dive for mussels. Skipper Grant Orchard is also a chef and serves home-made sourdough with your daily catch.

MOUNT STOKES Climb to the highest point in Marlborough Sounds. A steep, demanding tramp which leads to the mount’s 1203m summit, allow five to six hours to complete.

THE SOUNDS BY SKY Possibly the best way to admire every bay, historic site, vineyard and island is from above. Scenic flights and heli-packages make the most of every inch.

Queen Charlotte Track, Marlbororough Sounds © BareKiwi

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