Queen Charlotte Track Walkers Drop Off and Motuara Island

South Island

E-ko Tours

from

NZ$100

per adult

Book Now

New Zealand bellbird perched on a forest branch, singing on Blumine Island

Experiences

Transfers and Shuttles

Hiking & Walking

Nature & Wildlife

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Picton

Finish: Ship Cove

Location: Picton

Travel Time: 2 hours

Minimum Age: 12 Years Old and Under

Details

Wildlife Cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound

Set out on a guided cruise through the stunning Queen Charlotte Sound, a place alive with wildlife and natural beauty. Along the way, you may spot Hector’s, bottlenose, or dusky dolphins playing in the water, as well as New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks. With knowledgeable guides on board, the journey is as educational as it is breathtaking.

The comfortable vessels provide fantastic viewing areas, giving you the perfect vantage point to soak up the incredible surroundings. Bird lovers will be delighted by the seabirds gliding above, while the commentary brings the history and conservation efforts of the region to life. It’s an experience designed to connect you with the unique ecosystem of Marlborough Sounds.

Jetty at Motuara Island surrounded by native bush in the Marlborough Sounds

Visitors walking along a native bush track on Motuara Island with coastal views in the Marlborough Sounds.

Fluffy South Island robin resting on the forest floor among native greenery.

Two yellow-crowned parakeets splashing and drinking in a forest stream.

New Zealand falcon with wings spread wide soaring through the Marlborough sky.

A native New Zealand bellbird perched beside a freshwater stream on Motuara Island.

Rare South Island saddleback perched on a branch in the Motuara Island forest.

View of boat wake as the tour departs from Motuara Island in the Marlborough Sounds.

Aerial view of Ship Cove Meretoto showing jetty, beach, forest and historic monument in the Marlborough Sounds.

Tour group walking along Ship Cove jetty in the Marlborough Sounds at sunrise

Māori carving greets visitors at the entrance to Ship Cove, Marlborough Sounds.

Dusky dolphins swimming beside the boat in clear Marlborough Sounds water.

Couple walking past Queen Charlotte Track sign near the water at Ship Cove

Couple viewing Captain Cook monument surrounded by native bush at Ship Cove

Visitors standing near a carved wooden post by the wharf at Ship Cove

Travellers admiring a tall Pouwhenua (Maori carving) on Queen Charlotte Track at Ship Cove

Hikers enjoying the view from Ship Cove Lookout on the Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds

Discovering Motuara Island and Track Drop Off

A highlight of the journey is stepping ashore on Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary for a guided one-hour nature walk. This predator-free island is home to rare bird species and thriving native bush, offering an intimate glimpse into New Zealand’s conservation success stories. It’s a peaceful and rewarding way to see wildlife up close before continuing your adventure.

After your island experience, the cruise carries you to Ship Cove, where your Queen Charlotte Track journey begins. From there, walkers set off into lush forest trails, surrounded by native flora and birdsong. With the sea behind you and the track ahead, this unique combination of cruise and hike creates a truly memorable start to the Queen Charlotte Track.

AGE INFORMATION

Adult: 16 years +
Children: 5-15 years
Infants: 4 years and under

CANCELLATION & REFUND

More than 24 hours prior to departure: Full Refund (less any booking or credit card fees).*
Within 24 hours of the tour departure: No Refund

Note: *Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Queen Charlotte Track Walkers Drop Off and Motuara Island

South Island

E-ko Tours

Experiences

South Island

Details

Wildlife Cruise through Queen Charlotte Sound

Discovering Motuara Island and Track Drop Off

AGE INFORMATION

CANCELLATION & REFUND

Booking Options