Cruise Ship Day Marlborough: How to Plan Your Picton Tour

Are you planning a tour in Picton, New Zealand during your cruise ship stop? Hop on Hop off Wine Tours Marlborough & Queenstown offers an exciting and informative Cruise Ship Day Marlborough tour that you won’t want to miss. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect Picton tour.

Overview

Cruise Ship Day Marlborough is a full-day tour that takes you through the scenic Marlborough wine region. You’ll have the opportunity to experience the area’s vibrant wine industry, as well as its breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine. The tour runs every day that a cruise ship is in port, so be sure to book early to secure your spot.

What’s Included

The tour comes with a number of inclusions to make your day as enjoyable and informative as possible. You’ll be travelling in an air-conditioned vehicle with knowledgeable and experienced drivers, who will be available to answer any questions you may have. You’ll also have the option of picking up discounts at selected locations on the tour, up to 10% off. Additionally, tastings and food will be provided at various locations.

Meeting and Pickup

You have the option of either heading directly to the meeting point or requesting a pickup. The meeting point is at the Picton iSite Visitor Information Centre, located at The Foreshore Picton 7220 in New Zealand. If you choose to request a pickup, the pickup point is at Port Marlborough, 14 Auckland Street in Picton. The tour will end back at the meeting point, and it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

What to Expect

During the Cruise Ship Day Marlborough tour, you’ll have various stops and activities to look forward to. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect:

Blue Penguin New Zealand Gifts

The Blue Penguin New Zealand Gifts store offers a variety of unique souvenirs that you won’t find anywhere else. Take some time to browse the store and purchase some keepsakes to take home with you.

Seymour Square

Seymour Square is a picturesque park in the heart of Blenheim, Marlborough’s largest town. Take a leisurely walk around the square and enjoy the charming scenery.

Vines Village

The Vines Village is a boutique winery that offers tastings of some of the region’s finest wines. You’ll also have the chance to explore the gift shops and wine cellar, and purchase some bottles to take home with you.

Makana Confections

Makana Confections is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The store offers a range of handmade chocolates, truffles, and other delicious treats. Be sure to sample some of their famous chocolate-covered macadamias.

Bladen Wines

Bladen Wines is a small, family-owned winery that produces some of Marlborough’s most highly-regarded wines. Led by the winemaker himself, the tour offers an intimate view of the wine-making process, and of course, tastings.

Additional Information

Confirmation of your booking will be received at the time of booking, and most travelers are able to participate in the tour. The tour can have a maximum of 60 travelers. It’s important to note that the tour is near public transportation and can be cancelled up to 24 hours before departure.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours before departure to receive a full refund.

Book Your Cruise Ship Day Marlborough Tour Here

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the stunning Marlborough region. Book your Cruise Ship Day Marlborough tour today by clicking the following link: Book the Tour Here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Picton

Picton is a charming little town in the South Island of New Zealand. The town is located in Marlborough Sounds, a region known for its scenic natural beauty and water-based activities. Picton is an ideal destination for tourists who want to explore the great outdoors, learn about the local Maori culture, and enjoy the laid-back Kiwi lifestyle.If you are planning a trip to Picton or are curious about this charming town, here are some frequently asked questions to help you get started:

1. How do I get to Picton?

Picton is located on the north coast of the South Island, about 25 minutes drive from Blenheim, the main town in Marlborough. The easiest way to get to Picton is by car or bus. Alternatively, if you’re arriving from the North Island or Wellington, you can take the Interislander ferry from Wellington to Picton. The journey takes around 3 hours and is considered one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world.

2. What are the must-visit attractions in Picton?

There are many things to see and do in Picton, depending on your interests. Some of the must-visit attractions include:- Queen Charlotte Sound: This stunning sound is famous for its clear blue waters, secluded bays, and untouched native bush. You can explore the sound on foot, by kayak, or by boat.- Edwin Fox Maritime Museum: This museum tells the story of the Edwin Fox, the world’s ninth oldest ship, which is now preserved in Picton Harbour.- Ekor Bookshop & Cafe: This unique bookshop and cafe is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. You can browse the shelves for rare books or enjoy a coffee and cake in the sunny courtyard.

3. What outdoor activities are available in Picton?

Picton is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to suit all ages and interests. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include:- Kayaking: You can hire a kayak and explore the scenic bays and coves of Queen Charlotte Sound.- Mountain biking: There are several mountain biking trails around Picton, including the Queen Charlotte Track, which offers stunning views of the sound.- Hiking: There are numerous hiking trails around Picton, ranging from short walks to multi-day treks. The Queen Charlotte Track is one of the most popular hikes, taking around 3-5 days to complete.

4. What is the local cuisine like in Picton?

Picton is located in the Marlborough region, which is known for its wine, seafood, and fresh produce. Some of the must-try foods in Picton include:- Green-lipped mussels: These mussels are unique to New Zealand and are considered a delicacy. You can sample them at one of the many seafood restaurants in Picton.- Marlborough wine: The Marlborough region produces some of the best Sauvignon Blanc in the world. You can visit the local wineries for a tasting or buy a bottle to enjoy with your meal.- Feijoas: These small green fruits are native to South America but are now grown in New Zealand. They have a sweet, tangy flavour and are often used in desserts and chutneys.

5. What is the best time of year to visit Picton?

Picton is a year-round destination, with something to offer in every season. The best time to visit depends on what activities you are interested in. The summer months (December-February) are ideal for outdoor activities and water sports, while the autumn months (March-May) are perfect for hiking and wine tasting. The winter months (June-August) are quieter but still offer plenty to see and do, including skiing in nearby Rainbow Ski Area. The spring months (September-November) are ideal for wildlife spotting and birdwatching.

Conclusion

Picton is a charming town with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, local cuisine, or learning about Maori culture, Picton has something to suit every taste. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope we’ve given you a good idea of what to expect and have helped you plan your trip to this beautiful part of New Zealand.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Picton

Picton, located in the Marlborough Sounds of New Zealand’s South Island, is a stunning destination that offers incredible views and a variety of activities to tourists. With impeccable scenery, diverse wildlife, and amazing wineries, Picton is a must-visit site. Here is a detailed guide of everything you need to know about spending your time in Picton.

Getting to Picton

Before exploring everything that Picton has to offer, it’s important to know how to get there. The most common way to arrive in Picton is by ferry from the North Island from Wellington. The InterIslander and Bluebridge ferries both have regular services running every day, which take about 3 hours to cross the Cook Strait. Alternatively, you can catch a flight to Blenheim, which is about a 30-minute drive from Picton, and hire a car or catch a bus to get to Picton.

Accommodation Options

Picton offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget. From fancy hotels to backpacker lodges, there is something for everyone. Some popular options include:

1. Bay of Many Coves Resort

The Bay of Many Coves Resort is a luxury five-star retreat that offers private apartments, a restaurant and bar, and access to spa and wellness facilities. The resort is located in the heart of the Marlborough Sounds, offering a stunning view of the bay.

2. The Picton Yacht Club Hotel

The Picton Yacht Club Hotel is another popular option that offers hotel rooms with ensuite bathrooms, a restaurant and bar, and stunning views of Picton Harbour.

3. Jugglers Rest Hostel

Jugglers Rest Hostel is a popular cheap option that offers dormitory-style rooms for backpackers, as well as private rooms for couples or individuals. The hostel has a communal kitchen, internet facilities, and a large outdoor area for socializing.

Exploring Picton

Once you have arrived in Picton and settled into your accommodation, it’s time to explore the town and its surroundings. Here are a few options:

1. Take a Picton Heritage and Scenic Tour

The Wakaterepapanui track that runs from the Picton foreshore over to Tirohanga is a 90-minute scenic and heritage trail. This trail showcases Picton’s history, the flora and fauna, and the stunning views of Marlborough Sounds.

2. Visit the Edwin Fox Maritime Museum

The Edwin Fox Maritime Museum is located in the heart of Picton and is the last remaining ship that carried prisoners to Australia. Visitors can learn about the history of the ship and view artifacts.

3. Picton Walkways

Picton has a variety of walking tracks that vary in difficulty and length. The Victoria Domain walkway and Bob’s Bay are two popular options that offer incredible views of the harbour.

Wining and Dining in Picton

Whether you are a foodie or a wine connoisseur, Picton has many options to indulge in. Here are a few recommendations:

1. Eat Seafood at Coory’s Restaurant & Bar

Located on Marlborough’s Waterfront, Coory’s Restaurant & Bar is a seafood restaurant that offers fresh seafood dishes and the local favorites fish and chips.

2. Visit the Waipara Springs Winery

Waipara Springs Winery is one of the Top rated Sauvignon Blanc producers in New Zealand. Besides wine tasting, the area provides amazing views of the hills and mountains surround the winery.

3. Try the Chocolates at the Makana Chocolate Factory

Makana Chocolate Factory offers handmade chocolates, chocolate truffles, and toffee, and it’s an excellent destination for all chocolate lovers.

Conclusion

Picton is a must-visit destination on New Zealand’s South Island. With breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and amazing wineries, there is something for everyone. Whether you are a foodie, a wine lover, or an adventurer, Picton has it all. So book your tickets today and explore this jewel of a town.