The 7 Best Tours & Experiences In Marlborough New Zealand

Marlborough, New Zealand, isn’t just about stunning scenery — it’s a place where you can truly taste the land and sea. Known worldwide for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, this region offers a range of tours that cater to wine lovers, seafood enthusiasts, and craft beverage connoisseurs alike. Whether it’s sipping award-winning wines on a relaxing full-day wine tour or cruising the Marlborough Sounds with a seafood platter in hand, there’s an experience here to match every interest. We’re particularly fond of the Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour for its rich tasting and scenic stops, and the Craft Beer, Gin, and Whisky Tour for those who prefer a more spirited adventure.

Marlborough’s combination of lush vineyards, rugged coastlines, and friendly local producers makes its tours memorable. These experiences aren’t just about tasting wine or seafood—they’re about understanding what makes Marlborough special. From private tastings to lively brewery visits, each tour offers a different slice of this vibrant region. Below, we’ll walk you through the best options to help you pick the perfect adventure.

1. Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour

At number one, the Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour offers a comprehensive look at the region’s famed vineyards. Over 6 hours, you’ll visit multiple award-winning wineries, taste a variety of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and aromatic whites, and enjoy a relaxed lunch at a vineyard restaurant. What sets this tour apart is the combination of expert guides and scenic drives through Marlborough’s rolling hills. The luxury minibus makes the day comfortable and stress-free, allowing you to focus on the wine and scenery.

Reviews highlight the tour’s balance of learning and tasting — “The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, and the wines are spectacular,” comments one visitor. This tour is perfect for those who want a full immersion into Marlborough’s wine culture without rushing. It’s suitable for wine buffs or travelers looking for a relaxed, all-in-one experience. The value here lies in the variety of wineries visited and the personal attention from guides.

Bottom Line: If you want a well-rounded, enjoyable day tasting Marlborough’s best wines with expert guidance, this tour delivers.

2. Marlborough: Full-Day Wine and Seafood Tour with Cruise

Number two on our list combines Marlborough’s renowned wineries with a cruise through the Marlborough Sounds. Over 7 hours, you’ll start with tastings at 2 local wineries, then switch gears to a boat cruise that showcases the region’s marine beauty. Along the way, you’ll sample fresh seafood, learn about the marine farming industry, and enjoy stunning water views.

This tour’s real highlight is the seamless blend of wine and sea — for example, the 3-hour Marlborough Sounds cruise offers a peaceful break from land-based activities. The itinerary includes a light lunch and visits to prominent wineries, making it ideal for those who want variety. The boat cruise is particularly special, offering a different perspective on Marlborough’s landscape.

Reviews note the well-organized schedule and the added experience of the cruise, with one traveler saying, “The seafood and scenery made this a day to remember.” It’s best suited for those who appreciate both wine and marine environments and want a full, scenic experience.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers craving a mix of land and sea, with wine and seafood in equal measure.

3. Marlborough: Wineries Visit and Tasting Session

Coming in at number three is a focused afternoon tour of Marlborough’s top wineries. The 4-hour experience emphasizes quality over quantity, visiting select wineries known for their history, customer service, and distinctive wines. You’ll learn directly from the winemakers, gaining insights into the region’s winemaking process.

This tour is ideal for those who want a taste of Marlborough’s wine scene without a long day of touring. The highlights include carefully curated tastings of some of the best local wines, with guides sharing stories behind each bottle. The intimate setting allows for questions and personalized experiences.

Reviews mention the friendly guides and excellent wines, with one saying, “It’s a great way to understand what makes Marlborough wines special.” It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and in-depth tasting.

Bottom Line: If you’re after quality wine education in a smaller group, this session hits the spot.

4. Marlborough: Wineries Visit with Tastings and 2-Course Lunch

Number four offers a full-day exploration of 4 top wineries, combined with a delicious 2-course lunch. This tour provides a deeper dive into Marlborough’s wine production, with guides explaining how the region’s climate and soil influence flavor profiles.

What makes this experience stand out is the balance of education, tasting, and scenery. Guests can soak up panoramic vineyard views while sampling a wide range of wines, from crisp whites to bold reds. The included lunch is a highlight, pairing local wines with fresh, well-prepared dishes. This tour is perfect for wine lovers who want a comprehensive day out without feeling rushed.

Reviews praise the “beautiful views and knowledgeable guides,” and the opportunity to sample a variety of wines that show off Marlborough’s diversity. The value is excellent for a full-day experience that combines tasting, scenery, and food.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to explore multiple wineries with engaging food and wine pairing.

5. Nelson: Marlborough Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch

Starting from Nelson, the Marlborough Wine Tour from Nelson takes about 8.5 hours, making it a great option for travelers based in Nelson or nearby. The tour includes visits to boutique wineries, with tastings of wines from Sauvignon Blanc to Pinot Noir, and a scenic lunch with views.

The itinerary features a 2-hour drive from Nelson, with a couple of stops along the way, making it a full-day adventure. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to explore Marlborough’s hidden gems beyond the more commercial wineries. The guide provides insights into the region’s terroir and winemaking secrets, adding depth to the tasting experience.

While reviews are not available, the tour’s structure suggests it’s suited for those interested in discovering smaller wineries and enjoying scenic drives. It fits well for travelers who are already in Nelson and want a day immersed in Marlborough’s wine scene.

Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors based in Nelson seeking a comprehensive, full-day wine experience with scenic drives.

6. Marlborough Private Classic Wine Tour

Number six offers a private, tailored experience for those who prefer exclusivity. For $290 per person, this 6-hour tour visits Marlborough’s oldest and most recognized wineries, including Cloudy Bay, Saint Clair, Hunters, Wither Hills, and Villa Maria.

What makes this private tour special is the ability to customize the itinerary to your preferences, with the privacy of traveling in your own group. This is perfect for celebrating a special occasion or for travelers who want an intimate wine adventure. The focus is on quality and exclusivity, with guides sharing detailed stories about each winery and the region’s history.

Reviews are not available, but customers who value privacy and personalized service will find this option appealing. It’s best suited for small groups, couples, or anyone looking for a bespoke wine tour experience.

Bottom Line: A great choice for those who want a private, customized Marlborough wine experience with VIP treatment.

7. Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour

Rounding out the list, this 7-hour tour appeals to those who want more than just wine. It combines craft beer, gin, whiskey, and wine tastings, visiting Moa Brewery, The Gin Shack, and Whiskey Tasting Room. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample local food and crafts at a shop and enjoy a selection of 24 craft beers on tap at Dodson Street Ale House.

This tour is perfect for adventurous drinkers eager to explore Marlborough’s craft beverage scene. The itinerary offers a variety of tastings, with a focus on local distilleries and breweries. It’s a lively and interactive experience, ideal for those who like a bit of variety.

Reviews emphasize the fun atmosphere and quality of tastings, with one reviewer noting, “This was a great way to taste Marlborough’s craft drinks all in one day.” It’s best suited for groups who want a full-bodied experience of the region’s brewing and distilling culture.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a lively, comprehensive tasting tour of Marlborough’s craft drinks, this is a top pick.

How to Choose

When deciding which tour is best, consider your interests, budget, and time constraints. For instance, if wine is your main focus, the Full Day Wine Tour offers excellent value with a broad selection. Want a mix of wine and the sea? The Wine and Seafood Cruise provides a unique water-based perspective. If exclusivity appeals, the Private Classic Wine Tour offers tailored experiences.

For those with a passion for craft drinks, the Craft Beer, Gin, and Whisky Tour features multiple tastings in one day. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter, focused options like the Wineries Visit and Tasting, while those wanting a more private experience should consider the Private Classic Wine Tour.

Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (September to March), to secure your preferred date.

Marlborough’s tours cover everything from world-famous wines to exciting craft beers and scenic boat cruises. Whether you’re a wine aficionado, seafood lover, or craft beverage enthusiast, these experiences offer a taste of what makes Marlborough special. Take your pick, and don’t forget to book ahead — these adventures fill up fast. Cheers to your Marlborough journey!