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Queen Charlotte Track Walkers Drop Off or Pick Up (One Way)

South Island

E-ko Tours

from
NZ$80
per adult
Book Now

Experiences

Transfers and Shuttles Transfers and Shuttles Hiking & Walking Hiking & Walking

South Island

Start: Picton or Ship Cove
Location: Picton
Duration: 1.5 hour

Details

Wildlife Encounters on the Sound

Sailing through Queen Charlotte Sound is an unforgettable way to start your track adventure. The waters are home to playful dolphins, seabirds, and other rare marine life, creating magical moments before you even set foot on the track. With degree-qualified guides sharing fascinating insights, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich natural heritage.

The cruise also offers glimpses of history woven into the landscape, from early Māori settlement sites to Captain Cook’s explorations. As you relax on board, every stretch of coastline reveals something new and captivating. It’s a journey that blends nature, culture, and storytelling into one seamless experience.

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A Bottlenose dolphin leaps out of the water with a splash during a dolphin cruise in Marlborough Sounds.
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A Hector’s dolphin breaks the surface, its sleek body reflecting sunlight in the Marlborough Sounds.
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White-capped Albatross floats calmly on the sea, yellow-tipped beak in view.
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A Dusky dolphin releases a burst of bubbles while swimming in the Marlborough Sounds.
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A Bottlenose dolphin breaks the surface with a splash in the Marlborough Sounds.
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A White-fronted Tern flies across the sky with a small fish in its beak.
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Aerial view of Ship Cove Meretoto showing jetty, beach, forest and historic monument in the Marlborough Sounds.
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Tour group walking along Ship Cove jetty in the Marlborough Sounds at sunrise
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Māori carving greets visitors at the entrance to Ship Cove, Marlborough Sounds.
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A native Weka bird walking through grass at Ship Cove.
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Travellers admiring a tall Pouwhenua (Maori carving) on Queen Charlotte Track at Ship Cove
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Couple walking past Queen Charlotte Track sign near the water at Ship Cove
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Two children enjoying a swim at Ship Cove Waterfall on the Queen Charlotte Track
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Hikers enjoying the view from Ship Cove Lookout on the Queen Charlotte Track, Marlborough Sounds

Starting Your Queen Charlotte Track Walk

At Ship Cove, walkers can be dropped off to begin their trek along the Queen Charlotte Track. This picturesque location is steeped in history and provides a stunning starting point surrounded by native forest and wildlife. From here, you’ll follow well-marked trails that showcase the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.

For those seeking an extra layer of discovery, a guided visit to Motuara Island can be added before beginning the walk. This predator-free sanctuary is home to rare birds and offers sweeping views across the Sound. It’s the perfect way to enrich your Queen Charlotte Track experience before setting out on your adventure.

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.*

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