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Queen Charlotte Track - Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise

11 Reviews 4.91 out of 5 stars Based on 11 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Picton, New Zealand
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from $209.01 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Ultimate Kupes Trail Walk -only 5km . The BEST part of Queen Charlotte Track and Motuara Island and Gourmet Meal - provided at the End - Just Carry a Day bag and Camera :-) All Inclusive Price
Walk the BEST 5km instead of 17km :-) This 5km is the BEST stand of Native Forest Giants- you can Touch , Rimu, Matai, beach and mighty Totara up to 50m tall. All marked out on a Walking Guide for you
Enjoy a COLD Wine and Antipasto Lunch at Ship Cove
See Rare and Endangered Species on Guided Motuara Island Tour
See King Shags - only 730 left - Critically Endangered Species on Water Tour included
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.
9 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

We are the only Marlborough Sounds Guided Walk company with our own boats. Your day starts with the Ultimate Wildlife Cruise through the calm sheltered waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. You get on board binoculars for viewing wildlife and species ID cards with a WCA Qualified Guide. Dolphins 95% of the time :-)
Spend 1 hour on Motuara Island with its stunning views and range of Endangered Species where you can get close-up encounters with Rare Birds. The lookout has an amazing panoramic view. We pay DOC your access fee. E-ko started Guided Walks on this island 25 years ago.
After you visit Motuara - Sanctuary Island, then head to the famous Ship Cove. There you can Walk the BEST of Queen Charlotte Track in a Loop. Trees up to 1500 years old only with us, Hidden in the bush. Self Guided with a Map showing you where the hidden gems are :-) Re-live History and embrace nature. Walk the BEST 5km, relax at Ship Cove with a complimentary glass of Pinot Gris, and enjoy the return cruise.

What's Included

  • Landing and facility fees
  • FREE Images from our Online Photo gallery of Wildlife
  • Use of Onboard binoculars and Species ID cards
  • Lunch
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

1 London Quay
Picton 7220, New Zealand

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Picton

Picton is a major hub in New Zealand's transport network, connecting the South Island road and rail network with ferries across Cook Strait to Wellington and the North Island. The Picton urban area has a population of 4,800 (June 2022), making it the second-largest town in the Marlborough Region behind Blenheim.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Queen Charlotte Sound

Embark on a fully guided wildlife and dolphin cruise like no other. Travel from Picton through the Marlborough Sounds on a scenic journey to Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary. Our comfortable vessels and expert team take you on a conservation-focused, wildlife adventure for your soul. Expert commentary and fantastic viewing areas allow you to enjoy playful Hector’s, Common, Bottlenose or Dusky Dolphins (90% encounter rate!). We also see NZ fur seals and numerous seabirds before landing on Motuara Island for a 1-hour nature lover’s walk to remember – great for adults and kids alike.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Motuara Island

Welcome to Motuara Island Motuara Island is 100% predator-free and is home to some rare species such as the yellow-crowned Parakeet and Saddleback. Explore the island on your own or go with our knowledgeable guide who will point out and describe the resident blue penguins, rare saddleback, melodic bellbirds, cheeky robins, native pigeons and yellow-crowned parakeets (kakariki). If it’s a clear day, you will also be able to spot the North Island in the distance. The view from the Cook Strait lookout is absolutely spectacular! Friendly Birds The birds on this predator-free island are fearless, plentiful and very vocal. It’s not unusual for you to be able to get very close to these amazing creatures – there’ll be plenty of photo opportunities. Our expert guides will be with you all the way – our team are passionate about the local environment and love to share its unique aspects with our small groups.Historical Significance as Captain Cook planted a FLAG ontop in 1771 - Amazing views
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1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Queen Charlotte Track

Experience the spectacular Marlborough Sounds by walking or biking the Queen Charlotte Track. The track stretches 73.5 km from historic Meretoto/Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in Queen Charlotte Sound.
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4 hours Admission Ticket Included

ShipCove

Meretoto/Ship Cove was James Cook’s favourite New Zealand base during his three voyages of exploration. It is also part of the rich history of Polynesian navigation and has great significance for local Māori. Meretoto/Ship Cove has a significant history for early inhabitants Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Kuia and Rangitāne, the later Ngāti Toa, and the current guardians Te Ātiawa.
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3 hours Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Must be fit enough to Walk 5 km
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Q: Will I get seasick on Queen Charlotte Track – Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise?

A: If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy. Read more Feb 2023

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-29441P8

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.91
11 reviews

Average 4.91 out of 5 stars based on 11 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
10
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 16 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: Will I get seasick on Queen Charlotte Track – Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Queen Charlotte Track – Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (NZDT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Landing and facility fees.
  • FREE Images from our Online Photo gallery of Wildlife.
  • Use of Onboard binoculars and Species ID cards.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Queen Charlotte Track - Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise is as follows:

  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Must be fit enough to Walk 5 km
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Queen Charlotte Track – Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Landing and facility fees
  • FREE Images from our Online Photo gallery of Wildlife
  • Use of Onboard binoculars and Species ID cards
  • Lunch

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Must be fit enough to Walk 5 km
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

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