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Day Walk Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge

South Island

Beachcomber Cruises

from
NZ$120
per adult
Book Now
Two women take a selfie with scenic ocean views behind them on Queen Charlotte Track

Experiences

Hiking & Walking Hiking & Walking Transfers and Shuttles Transfers and Shuttles Family-friendly Tours Family-friendly Tours Day Tours Day Tours

South Island

Start: Picton
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 9 hours
Distance: 17 kms
Difficulty: 3

Historic Trails and Scenic Vistas on the Queen Charlotte Track

Your journey begins with a cruise north from Picton through the Marlborough Sounds, passing secluded bays and inlets along the way. Skippers often share fascinating stories about the region’s history, geology, and wildlife, adding depth to the experience. If the timing is right, dolphins may appear alongside the boat, playing in the wake.

At Ship Cove, where Captain James Cook once anchored in the 1770s, interpretation displays reveal the cove’s significance for both Māori and Europeans. The walk then begins with a steady climb through regenerating forest filled with manuka, kanuka, and tree ferns. Native birds such as tui, fantails, and silvereyes create a lively soundtrack, while the occasional curious weka might wander across the path.

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Beachcomber Cruises boat cruising through Queen Charlotte Sound en route to Motuara Island from Picton.
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Drone shot of Ship Cove jetty stretching into the blue-green waters of Queen Charlotte Sound
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Signpost at Ship Cove marking Queen Charlotte Track distances in the Marlborough Sounds
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Panoramic coastal landscape on the Queen Charlotte Track with blue sea and lush hills
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Couple enjoying views from Ship Cove Lookout along the Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds
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Stone spiral artwork on the forest floor along the Queen Charlotte Track
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Māori wood carving next to a boardwalk at Ship Cove on the Queen Charlotte Track.
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Guests enjoying outdoor dining in the garden at Furneaux Lodge on the Queen Charlotte Track
  • Operates: Year Round
  • Check in time at Picton: 7:30am for 8am departure, 8:30am for 9am departure
  • Depart Picton: 8am October to April; 9am Year Round
  • Return trip pick up: 4-4:30pm
  • Arrive Picton: 5:30-6pm

Distance & Duration:

  • 17km, approximately 5 hours walking

Please note: that Furneaux Lodge is closed in June, July, and August, so there won't be a restaurant or café available then.

To help reduce our environmental impact, Beachcomber Cruises no longer uses single-use cups on any of our vessels. Reusable souvenir keep cups are available for purchase at the office before departure. We also provide complimentary tea and coffee for you to enjoy during the tour.

  • Adult: 15 years +
  • Children: 5-14 years
  • Infant: 4 years & under
  • 48 hours or more before travel: Full refund**
  • Less than 48 hours: No refund

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

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