14 Best Tours & Experiences In Picton

Picton is a lively hub for memorable tours and experiences—a place where nature, culture, and good food collide in the most satisfying ways. It’s not just about catching ferries or passing through; Picton offers a rich selection of activities that dive into its stunning surroundings. Whether you want to sip Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc, paddle across tranquil waters, or admire the rugged coast from the sky, this small port town packs a punch. We love the Beyond the Vines wine tour for its intimate tasting at five different vineyards or the Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise, which combines a scenic boat ride with a taste of remote Marlborough life. And for wildlife lovers, the bird watching and dolphin eco-tour offers a chance to spot rare seabirds and playful marine mammals.

Quick Overview

In this list, you’ll find wine tours like the Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tasting Tour, scenic boat cruises such as the Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise, and outdoor adventures including sea kayaking and scenic train rides. Each experience offers something unique—from tasting world-class wines to exploring the wild coast or flying over the sounds. Keep reading to find out which tours best match your style and interests.

1. Beyond the Vines – Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tasting Tour

For around $137, the Beyond the Vines hits the mark for its comprehensive look at Marlborough’s stellar wine scene. The tour spans about 6 hours, featuring visits to multiple local vineyards where you’ll sample Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format, which ensures a relaxed and personal experience. The visit to Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen for a relaxed wine tasting and delicious food is a highlight, often praised by visitors for its quality and setting. Tour guide Gavin, who is praised for his knowledge and humor, helps bring the region’s wine story to life.
This tour is perfect for wine lovers who want a deeper dive into Marlborough’s terroirs and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. It’s especially good if you’re keen on tasting diverse varietals and learning from a passionate guide.
Bottom line: A great choice for wine aficionados looking for a thorough, friendly experience with excellent variety.

2. Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise from Picton

At number 2, the Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise offers a delightful 4-hour journey into local life. This scenic cruise is not just about pretty views; it’s a window into how remote communities receive essentials by boat. The cruise delivers a slice of authentic Marlborough living, with an experienced skipper delivering commentary on the region’s history, wildlife, and ecology. Wildlife sightings like marine mammals and seabirds are common, making it a hit for nature lovers.
Travelers love how the boat stops at bays and coves inaccessible by land, giving you a sense of discovery. The relaxed pace and informative guides turn this into a memorable afternoon. It’s a perfect fit if you prefer a low-key, yet enriching experience that combines scenery with local stories.
Bottom line: An authentic, scenic boat ride that offers insight into the rural side of Marlborough with wildlife sightings to boot.

3. Discover Marlborough Wine – Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour

For about $118, the Discover Marlborough Wine provides a well-rounded 4 to 5-hour introduction to the region. This small-group tour includes transportation from Picton or Blenheim, making it flexible depending on where you’re staying. The highlight is visiting four vineyards and tasting a variety of wines, with a focus on the region’s distinct terroirs. The guide shares insights on New Zealand’s wine development, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
What makes this tour standout is its personalized approach, limited to just 11 people, and the inclusion of hotel transfers. Visitors often comment on the quality of wines and the knowledgeable guide, Glenn. Plus, the lunch stop at Saint Clair Vineyard Kitchen is a favorite for its relaxed atmosphere.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed wine experience, with personalized attention and good transport logistics.

4. Picton Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour

If you’re on a cruise and want to maximize your time, the Marlborough Wine Tour offers a seamless 4-6 hour experience with port pickup and drop-off. Visiting up to five wineries around Blenheim, you’ll get tastings and vineyard tours that showcase Marlborough’s reputation for world-class Sauvignon Blanc. The trip includes a visit to Saint Clair and other top wineries, with some guests praising the delicious lunch and friendly guides.
This tour is perfect for cruise passengers who want to sample excellent wines without the hassle of organizing their own transport. Limited to small groups, it ensures a more personal experience. The reviews highlight how the guide Bruce keeps things engaging and on schedule.
Bottom line: An excellent, hassle-free option for cruise travelers wanting a taste of Marlborough’s best wineries.

5. Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton

At just over $115, the Half-Day Wine Tour is perfect for those short on time but eager to sample Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc. This 3-4 hour excursion includes hotel transfers and visits three to four carefully chosen wineries. The relaxed pace lets you enjoy tastings and learn about New Zealand’s wine industry from guides like Chris, who provide informative commentary.
It’s especially suited for travelers who want a quick yet enriching experience, with reviews praising the friendly atmosphere and generous pours. The tour doesn’t include a lunch, so plan accordingly.
Bottom line: Ideal for a half-day escape into Marlborough’s wine scene with easy logistics and friendly guides.

6. Half day Sea Kayak Guided Tour from Picton

For $74, the Half day Sea Kayak Guided Tour offers a chance to paddle in Queen Charlotte Sound. This 4-hour trip is perfect for active travelers who want to see the Marlborough Sounds from a different perspective. You’ll explore sheltered coves, learn about the area from knowledgeable guides, and potentially spot eagle rays, cormorants, and other marine life.
This tour is highly rated by families and solo travelers alike, praised for its supportive guides and relaxed atmosphere. It’s suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity but also accessible for beginners. The scenic paddling and wildlife encounters make it a memorable outdoor experience.
Bottom line: Great for active travelers seeking a close-up view of Marlborough’s marine environment.

7. Full-Day Guided Sea Kayak Trip from Picton

For $105, the Full-Day Guided Sea Kayak Trip offers an immersive 7-hour adventure around Queen Charlotte Sound. It includes morning tea, lunch, and visits to remote bays and bush-clad shores. The focus is on getting active while soaking in the spectacular scenery. Guides share natural and cultural stories, and the trip caters to those wanting a full day of paddling with a mix of relaxation and exploration.
Reviewers note the well-planned itinerary and the breathtaking views from the water. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with longer outdoor activities and want a comprehensive, hands-on experience.
Bottom line: A top pick for active travelers who want to paddle all day and see the Sound’s hidden corners.

8. Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Picton to Christchurch

Priced at $164, the Coastal Pacific Train offers a 5-hour 40-minute scenic ride along the South Island’s east coast. With panoramic windows and open-air carriages, you’ll enjoy views of snow-capped mountains, beaches, and rolling hills. The on-board commentary ensures you won’t miss key sights like Kaikoura and the Pacific coastline.
This is ideal for travelers who prefer to relax and take in the scenery without the hassle of driving. Guest reviews highlight the comfort and stunning vistas, making it a memorable way to travel between these two cities. Keep in mind that while the scenery is beautiful, the trip includes some rolling green hills and cattle as well.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a scenic, comfortable journey with minimal effort.

9. Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise

As the 9th experience, the Queen Charlotte Sound Mail Boat Cruise is an excellent way to see the Sound’s remote bays and wildlife in a 4-hour trip. This cruise captures the essence of rural Marlborough, with a knowledgeable captain sharing stories about the area’s isolation and marine life. It’s a peaceful ride that offers chances to spot dolphins and seabirds, while also enjoying the scenery of untouched coves.
Guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to learn about local life beyond the tourist spots. If you’re interested in a serene cruise that showcases the quiet beauty of the sounds, this is a top pick.
Bottom line: A calm, scenic cruise that offers a genuine look at the Sound’s wilderness and remote communities.

10. Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Tour from Picton

At $149, the Marlborough Wine Region Shore Excursion is a great way for cruise passengers to sample four wineries including a tasting at a boutique chocolate shop. Limited to 11 passengers, this tour is praised for its well-curated winery visits and the delicious lunch option on your own. Guides like Marsley ensure the day runs smoothly, with stops at boutique wineries where you can experience Marlborough’s signature Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals.
This tour is excellent if you want a quick but quality-focused introduction to Marlborough’s wine scene with the convenience of cruise ship logistics. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and the carefully selected wineries as highlights.
Bottom line: A reliable, small-group option ideal for cruise itineraries with a taste of Marlborough’s best wineries.

11. Marlborough Half Day Wine Tour From Picton

For just $94, the Marlborough Half Day Wine Tour offers a quick yet satisfying opportunity to visit three or four vineyards in 4 hours. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a focus on relaxed tastings led by experienced guides like Chris. Visitors rave about the friendly atmosphere and the generous pours.
It’s a solid choice for travelers who want to fit a wine tour into a busy schedule without sacrificing quality or insight. The tour’s flexibility and focus on Marlborough’s key wines make it a dependable option.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick, no-fuss introduction to Marlborough wines with easy logistics.

12. Bird Watching and Dolphin Eco-Tour to Blumine Island

For €112, the Bird Watching and Dolphin Eco-Tour combines wildlife spotting with marine ecology in a 3-4 hour trip. Led by marine biologists, the tour takes you to predator-free Blumine Island, home to rare birds like the orange-fronted kakariki and king shags. Dolphins and other marine mammals are often seen, making this a perfect outing for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the success rate at spotting rare birds. The walk up Motuara Island offers great birding, and the boat ride is peaceful and scenic.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for wildlife lovers wanting a close-up look at seabirds, coastal dolphins, and protected island habitats.

13. Marlborough Sounds Greenshell Mussel Tasting Cruise

At number 13, the Marlborough Sounds Greenshell Mussel Tasting Cruise combines culinary delights with sightseeing in a 3-hour cruise. Enjoy freshly steamed greenshell mussels, salmon, and views of a mussel farm—all while learning about local aquaculture. The cruise departs and returns to the Picton Marina, making it easy to fit into any schedule.
Guests love the size and quality of the mussels and the informative commentary about Marlborough’s seafood industry. It’s a delightful experience for foodies, especially those interested in New Zealand seafood specialties.
Bottom line: A tasty, scenic cruise perfect for seafood lovers and those curious about Marlborough’s aquaculture.

14. Flight Experience our Water and Wilderness Scenic Tour

Finally, the Flight Experience offers a quick 1 hour 15-minute flight over the entire Marlborough Sounds area. Priced at $185, this scenic flight is an unbeatable way to see the vast landscapes, mountains, forests, and beaches from above. You’ll even make a quick stop on an isolated beach, adding an adventurous touch.
Guests rave about the breathtaking views and the friendly pilot who shares insights into the area’s geography and wildlife. This tour is ideal if you’re pressed for time but want a panoramic perspective that’s impossible to get from land.
Bottom line: A perfect short but spectacular scenic flight for those wanting a bird’s-eye view of Marlborough’s wilderness.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Picton

Picking the perfect experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. Want to maximize your wine tasting? The Beyond the Vines or Discover Marlborough Wine are excellent options. For wildlife and outdoor lovers, the Bird Watching and Dolphin Eco-Tour or the Sea Kayak trips offer active, immersive experiences.

Travelers short on time should consider the Half-Day Wine Tour or the Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region. If scenic travel is your priority, the Coastal Pacific Train and Flight Experience deliver unforgettable views.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular activities like the Full-Day Marlborough Wine Tasting Tour and cruise options, as they fill quickly during peak season.

Final thoughts

Picton offers a wide range of memorable tours and experiences—whether you’re after world-class wines, breathtaking scenery, or fascinating wildlife encounters. For wine lovers, the Beyond the Vines stands out with its diversity and intimate setting, while outdoor adventurers will find plenty of action in kayaking or wildlife tours. Scenic train rides and flights provide stunning perspectives if you’re short on time but want to see as much as possible.

Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated experiences. Picton is a seaside treasure chest—ready to reveal its secrets one unforgettable tour at a time.