14 Must-Try Tours In Picton

Picton is a fantastic base for exploring New Zealand’s Marlborough region. Its compact port area, scenic waterfront, and proximity to vineyards and nature reserves make it ideal for a variety of guided tours. Whether you’re a wine lover, wildlife enthusiast, or seeking scenic views, Picton offers options that make the most of its stunning surroundings. We love how some tours combine activities—like the Beyond the Vines full-day wine tour—with others providing unique wildlife encounters or spectacular flights over the area. For instance, standing on the deck of a boat watching dolphins or soaring above the sounds by plane gives a different perspective on this rugged landscape. Whatever your interest, Picton’s tours promise memorable experiences with a personal touch and local expertise.

Quick Overview

Picton’s tours are remarkable for their mix of wine tasting, wildlife viewing, and adventure activities. You can spend full days exploring Marlborough’s renowned vineyards, or opt for shorter half-day options that still include visits to top wineries like Saint Clair or Forrest. Wildlife lovers will appreciate eco-tours to see dolphins, fur seals, and rare birds, as well as adventurous sea kayaking trips. Scenic flights give a breathtaking aerial view of the sounds, and even a half-day kayak offers a peaceful encounter with nature. Below, we walk through each of our top choices, highlighting what makes them special.

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

At number 1 is a true deep dive into Marlborough’s world-famous wine culture. This full-day tour takes you through several local vineyards, tasting Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. The highlight is the relaxed visit to Saint Clair Family Estate Vineyard Kitchen, where you can enjoy wine and food in the vines. It’s perfect if you want an intimate, small-group experience—most tours limit to about 12 people—allowing you to ask questions and get personalized attention. Tour guide Gavin is praised for his knowledge and friendliness, making the day both educational and fun. The cost of $136.53 per person reflects excellent value given the number of wineries visited—5 in total—and the included tastings.

Guests frequently comment on the friendly atmosphere and well-chosen wineries, with many noting Gavin’s top-notch hosting. This tour suits wine enthusiasts eager to explore Marlborough’s diverse varietals and scenery in depth. The only downside might be the full-day commitment, but for lovers of wine and scenic vineyards, it’s well worth it.

Bottom line: Ideal for serious wine fans wanting a comprehensive, relaxed experience with expert guides.

2. Discover Marlborough Wine – Afternoon Marlborough Wine Tour

If you prefer a shorter, more flexible experience, this afternoon tour is perfect. It lasts about 4 to 5 hours and includes visits to 4 different wineries, with tastings at each location. The tour covers the development of New Zealand wine and offers a personalized, small-group experience limited to 11 people. For around $117.91, you get transportation from Picton or Blenheim, making it easy and convenient. Guides like Glenn or Gavin receive high praise for their local knowledge and engaging style.

Guests love the way this tour balances wine education with tasting opportunities, and it’s a great choice if you’re short on time but still want to sample Marlborough’s best. Some reviews mention that the stop for sparkling wine was a bit rushed, but overall, the consensus is it offers excellent value and a memorable day.

Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a focused, high-quality wine experience without a full day commitment.

3. Picton Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour

For cruise passengers, this compact 4-6 hour tour is designed for maximum efficiency. Starting right from Picton port, it visits up to five wineries with tastings and vineyard tours included. The tour is limited to 11 people, ensuring a personalized experience, and the port pickup and drop-off make logistics easy. At $155.14 per person, it’s a great way to get a taste of Marlborough without missing your ship.

Guests appreciate the smooth organization and interesting winery visits, especially the opportunity to learn about Marlborough’s significance in the global wine industry. The tour’s flexibility means it can include a quick vineyard walk and wine tasting, along with a visit to Saint Clair or other top wineries. The reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge and the quality of tastings.

Bottom line: Excellent for cruise travelers who want a well-organized, intimate wine experience in limited time.

4. Half-Day Wine Tour from Picton

Ideal for those who want a leisurely afternoon among the vines, this 3-4 hour tour visits 3-4 wineries at a relaxed pace. The tour includes tastings and hotel transfers from Picton or central accommodation. It’s a flexible option that offers a good overview without the full-day commitment. The tour typically visits wineries like Sounds Connection, which hosts tastings in picturesque vineyard settings.

Guests praise the informal, friendly atmosphere and the knowledgeable driver-guide, with some mentioning how the driver, Chris, shared great local tips. Its value lies in its simplicity and focus on quality tastings with ample time to enjoy each stop.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a short, relaxed wine experience with local insights.

5. Half Day Sea Kayak Guided Tour from Picton

For active travelers, paddling into Queen Charlotte Sound is a must-do. This 4-hour guided sea kayak takes you from the Picton waterfront into sheltered waters, where you can spot dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds. The guides are expert naturalists who share insights into the area’s ecology, making it both an educational and physically rewarding experience.

Guests rave about how supportive Madison & Jake are, especially with first-timers, noting the opportunity to see stingrays, jellyfish, and birdlife. The small group size enhances the personal nature of this tour, and the scenery is breathtaking. The $74.47 price makes it a good value for the active adventure it provides.

Bottom line: Perfect for nature lovers who want a hands-on wildlife experience with a bit of exercise.

6. Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Tour from Picton

This half-day shore excursion combines wine tasting with chocolate sampling. Visiting four wineries, including a boutique chocolate shop, it offers a tasty and relaxed way to see Marlborough. The tour is limited to 11 people and includes some of the region’s best wineries, such as the boutique Forrest Wines. The $148.94 fee includes tastings and chocolate, making it a delightful combo.

Reviews highlight the professionalism of the guide and the quality of wineries visited. The inclusion of a chocolate stop appeals to those with a sweet tooth, and the small group size ensures a personal touch. Lunch is at your expense, giving flexibility to the schedule.

Bottom line: Great for travelers wanting a mix of wine and chocolate, with a small-group experience.

7. Marlborough Half Day Wine Tour From Picton

This 4-hour tour offers a relaxed, flexible way to taste Marlborough wines. Visiting 3-4 wineries, the tour emphasizes informal yet informative experiences. The driver/guide, Rose, is praised for her local knowledge and friendly manner, making the day enjoyable. The tour includes tasting fees and free pickup from Picton or Blenheim.

Guests note that the tour is perfect for those who want to avoid rushing and prefer a more personal, intimate setting. It’s especially suitable if you want to fit in a wine tour during a busy cruise day or short stay.

Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, friendly wine experience on a short schedule.

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

Wildlife enthusiasts will love this half-day eco-tour into the Marlborough Sounds. Led by marine biologists, you’ll cruise out to Blumine Island, a predator-free bird sanctuary home to rare kakariki and king shags. The tour also includes wild dolphin sightings, with a high success rate of 98%. Expect to see seabirds, marine mammals, and other unique species in their natural habitat.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to observe rare birds like the orange-fronted kakariki. The scenic boat cruise and nature walk combine to create an authentic wildlife experience. Light refreshments are included, and the tour is perfect for active, nature-loving travelers.

Bottom line: Excellent for bird watchers and dolphin fans, combining wildlife and scenic cruising.

9. Flight Experience our Water and Wilderness Scenic Tour

Seeing Marlborough’s sounds and mountains from above is unforgettable. This 1 hour 15-minute scenic flight offers aerial views of Queen Charlotte Sound, the tidal rips, and over 40,000 tuatara at the home of prehistoric reptiles. For those short on time, it’s an easy way to get a rundown of the landscape.

Guests are blown away by the gorgeous views and the pilot’s commentary. Onboard, you might even land on a remote beach or fly over the rugged coastlines. The price of $185.55 reflects a premium experience, but many say it’s worth every penny for the perspective it offers.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a quick, spectacular overview of Marlborough’s landscapes from the sky.

10. Motuara Wildlife Sanctuary Tour and Dolphin Cruise from Picton

This full 4.5-hour wildlife cruise combines dolphin sightings with a walk on Motuara Island. During the cruise, you’ll look for dolphins, fur seals, and seabirds, while the guided walk on the sanctuary offers a peek at rare land birds like the kakariki. Light refreshments keep you energized during the adventure.

Guests love the personalized experience and the chance to see marine mammals and birds in their natural habitat. The guides’ expertise in wildlife identification makes this tour stand out, and many comment on the high success rate of spotting rare species.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for wildlife lovers interested in both marine and birdlife in a small-group setting.

11. Full-Day Wine Tour from Picton

This 7-8 hour tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Marlborough’s hidden wine gems. It includes round-trip transport and visits to boutique wineries where you can sample local, hard-to-find wines. The itinerary is customizable, giving you flexibility based on your interests.

Guests find it a stress-free way to indulge in Marlborough’s wine scene, praising the relaxed pace and expert guidance. The cost of $155.14 offers good value considering the length and personalized attention. Many mention the chance to enjoy lunch at Saint Clair or other top spots, making it a full indulgence day.

Bottom line: Perfect for wine aficionados eager to discover lesser-known wineries in a relaxed setting.

12. Full Day Guided Sea Kayak Tour from Picton

For the most immersive experience, try this full-day sea kayaking trip. Departing from Picton, you paddle through Queen Charlotte Sound with a knowledgeable guide pointing out marine life and seabirds. The trip includes a beachside lunch of seasonal ingredients—an added treat.

Guests describe it as a must-do for active travelers. The guides, like Jamie, are praised for their local knowledge and safety orientation. You might see seals, dolphins, and eagle rays, with opportunities for snorkeling and wildlife spotting along the way.

Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting active engagement and a full day of exploring the sounds by water.

13. Marlborough Wine Tour – Picton Cruise Ship Shore Excursion Tour

Designed for cruise ship visitors, this 4-5 hour tour focuses on top wineries in the Wairau Valley. It includes visits to 5 wineries, with tastings and optional lunch. The small group method and Picton port pickup make it a hassle-free way to maximize limited time on land.

Guests mention the high quality of wineries visited and the engaging guide. The tour also includes a stop at a boutique chocolate shop, adding a sweet touch. Many appreciate the personalized experience and the opportunity to learn about Marlborough’s wine industry without feeling rushed.

Bottom line: Best for cruise travelers with limited time who want a curated, intimate wine experience.

14. Marlborough Wine Region Tour from the Port of Picton

This 4-6 hour shore excursion offers convenient transport and a guided visit to Marlborough’s wine country. Visiting 4 wineries and a boutique chocolate shop, it combines tasting, sightseeing, and local treats. The tour is limited to small groups, ensuring a personal feel.

Guests praise the expert guides, the variety of wineries, and the relaxed pace. The inclusion of basic wine-tasting fees and the flexible itinerary make it a practical choice for cruise visitors wanting a well-rounded experience.

Bottom line: A flexible, easy, and enjoyable way to taste Marlborough’s wines during a port visit.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When picking the best tour in Picton, consider your main interests: Are you a wine connoisseur looking for a full immersion? Try the Beyond the Vines full-day tour. Want a quick taste of Marlborough’s best? The Half-Day Wine Tour hits the mark. For wildlife lovers, the Dolphin Eco-Tour offers a unique peek into the natural world.

If you’re short on time during a cruise, opt for the Picton Cruise Shore Excursion, which combines convenience with quality. For adventure seekers, the Sea Kayak or scenic flight provide memorable ways to see the area from different perspectives.

Booking early is smart, especially during peak seasons. Think about your interests—whether it’s wine, wildlife, or scenic flights—and pick a tour that matches your pace and curiosity level.

Final Thoughts

Picton’s tour options are diverse and tailored to different tastes. For a comprehensive wine experience, the Beyond the Vines delivers a full day of tastings and vineyard visits. Wildlife fans will get their fix with the Motuara Sanctuary tour, while adventure lovers can explore the sounds by kayak or air.

No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance ensures you’ll get your spot in these small-group experiences. With options ranging from half-day tastings to full-day adventures, Picton makes it easy to turn a visit into a memorable highlight of your trip to New Zealand.