Duration: 2-3 hour kayak plus 11 km 3-4 hour walk or 2-3 hours bike
Travel Time: 8 hours
Difficulty:
2
Minimum Age: 8
Details
Sea Kayaking and Scenic Hiking Combo
Experience the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds with a one-day kayaking and hiking adventure from Picton. This tour is perfect for those seeking an active yet relaxed way to explore the natural wonders of Queen Charlotte Sound. Begin your day with a scenic paddle from Ngakuta Bay, where calm waters, hidden coves, and native bush provide a peaceful backdrop for spotting local wildlife like stingrays and seabirds.
After your guided kayaking tour, stretch your legs on a self-guided hike along the Link Pathway—an immersive trail rich with native forest, historic bridle paths, and remnants from World War II. With no need to rush, you’ll enjoy a flexible and rewarding experience that showcases the best of land and sea in one of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions.
Minimum number of persons: 2
INCLUSIONS
Double kayaks, PFDs (lifejackets), splash jackets, spray decks and dry bags (including for your camera)
Lunch for you to take with you on your walk or bike ride
Kayak guide
AGE INFORMATION
Child: 8-15 years
Minimum Age: 8 years
CANCELLATION & REFUND
More than 24 hours prior: Full refund**
Within 24 hours: Non refundable
Note: **Excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
Itinerary
This trip takes you from the busy Picton Harbour to the breathtaking western end of Queen Charlotte Sound. With fewer boats and countless bays, coves, and wildlife to discover, this peaceful area offers the perfect escape into nature.
After a thorough safety briefing, your day begins with a guided sea kayaking tour through the scenic western arm of Queen Charlotte Sound. Glide along the shoreline, spotting rays, seabirds, and the lush native bush that lines the water's edge. A few hours later, your kayak adventure wraps up at Ngakuta Bay, where you'll receive instructions for the next leg of your journey.
From Ngakuta Bay, set off on your independent hike along The Link Pathway back to Picton. This stunning track, winding through beautiful bush with sweeping views of the Sound, takes 3-4 hours to walk or 2-3 hours (11 km) to cycle. Along the way, you'll encounter sections of historic bridle paths from the 1860s and remnants of World War II signal stations, making the experience both scenic and rich with history.
By 4:30 pm, you’ll arrive back in Picton, having experienced the best of the Marlborough Sounds in a single, unforgettable day.