Picton Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing & Cruises You Won’t Forget
Planning a visit to Picton, that lovely New Zealand town? Well, getting out on the water is something you absolutely have to do! Picture this: calm, turquoise waters, amazing views of green hills, and maybe, just maybe, a dolphin or two swimming alongside your boat. So, let’s have a chat, and I will let you know my top picks for tours, sightseeing spots and some fantastic cruises!
1. Explore the Queen Charlotte Sound
Taking a cruise on the Queen Charlotte Sound is very much a must. Think of it almost as a relaxing day where the world just floats away. Lots of cruises actually will take you through pretty bays and past spots filled with native birds. Also, so you know, some tours even take you to remote resorts, where you can hop off for a fancy lunch. Like your typical scenic drive, only, so much better ’cause you’re on the water.
Look into a full-day cruise. They typically involve everything you need for the ultimate Queen Charlotte Sound viewing! From on deck amenities, lunch options or catering, to opportunities to visit the remote spots along the shore.
2. Dolphin Watching Adventure
Alright, who does not love dolphins? Several tours specialize in dolphin watching, where, if you’re lucky, you can see these wonderful animals playing in their habitat. That is so cool. Responsible operators, so they are, respect the dolphins’ space, to it’s almost ensuring that these excursions are fun, while still causing as little trouble as possible to these amazing animals. Usually, too, the crew shares some seriously awesome knowledge about marine life; a science class, like your, on a boat!
So, keep in mind the seasonality here. Also, you should always book in advance, specifically if traveling with a group. Another suggestion: many operators provide you with an option to swim with the dolphins too. Check this out!
3. Mail Boat Cruise: A Unique Experience
Okay, for a different twist, how about a Mail Boat Cruise? Yeah, I know it sounds kind of weird. These aren’t just, like your, normal sightseeing cruises; they actually deliver mail and supplies to residents who live in very secluded spots around the Sounds. This is very much a chance to see a slice of local life that you wouldn’t normally experience. As a matter of fact, these cruises take you into little bays, offering great photo opportunities, and they really let you appreciate the peace and quiet of the area.
You will want to make some bookings! Because the mail boat tour typically fills up quickly, with so many curious and intrepid vacationers. Also, keep an eye on tour durations. Tours sometimes can take half a day, or run all the way till after lunch!
4. Hike and Cruise Combo
Feeling a little active? A ‘hike and cruise’ trip is, perhaps, right for you. Basically, these packages often drop you off at one of the many walking trails along the Queen Charlotte Track. From there, that lets you hike a piece of it, and later, the boat will come pick you up from another spot. So, imagine stretching your legs surrounded by some gorgeous nature, before gently sailing back to Picton. Not bad, alright?
I would recommend that you look closely at the trail conditions when booking. As well, your experience level and fitness are very important! In addition, some portions of the trails, like your typically hike, will take a lot out of you. Always bring the essentials: snacks, water, and appropriate attire.
5. Wine Tour by Boat
Wine lover alert! Being so close to the Marlborough wine region, you could easily find tours that blend cruising with wine tasting. The Marlborough Sounds, incidentally, is wine country! Yes, wine by boat. What a thing! These tours typically take you to vineyards that you can reach by boat, so, too it’s almost, where you can sample a lot of local wines with lovely views. Could be very fancy if you’re looking for it!
Bear in mind that some packages may emphasize particular food choices. If you like food. So, find one that takes you to an area that also specializes in gastronomy as well as good grapes!