Tucked at the top of the South Island, the Marlborough Sounds is a breathtaking mix of sheltered bays, lush forested hills and sparkling blue water. This region feels like a secret pocket of Aotearoa – one where life slows down, nature surrounds you and adventure is waiting around every headland. From world-class hiking tracks to unforgettable cruises, there are so many ways to experience the magic of the Marlborough Sounds.
1. Mailboat Cruise
Hop aboard the historic Mailboat Cruise, one of the most unique ways to see the Marlborough Sounds. For over a century, this service has delivered mail and supplies to remote coastal communities and today you can join the journey. It’s an immersive mix of scenery and storytelling, as the skipper weaves in tales of local life while dolphins often leap alongside the boat.
⭐ Highlights
- Watch dolphins, seals and seabirds up close
- Learn about remote community life directly from the crew
- Visit hidden bays and isolated homesteads rarely seen by travellers
2. Queen Charlotte Track
Lace up your boots for the Queen Charlotte Track, one of the South Island’s most celebrated hikes. Stretching 73 km between Ship Cove and Anakiwa, the track combines panoramic ridgelines, native bush and bays so inviting you’ll want to dive straight in. You can walk shorter sections or tackle the full multi-day adventure. The track is well-serviced, with water taxis to drop you off and pick you up—making it an accessible yet rewarding experience in the Marlborough Sounds.
⭐ Highlights
- Choose from day hikes or the full multi-day trek
- Stay at lodges, campsites or eco-accommodation along the way
- Panoramic views of Queen Charlotte Sound from high ridgelines
- Easy water taxi transfers for flexible walking options
👉 For more inspiration, check out our guide to the Best Hiking Trails in Marlborough Sounds.
3. Scenic Flight – Water and Wilderness by Air
For a perspective that few ever see, take a scenic flight over the Marlborough Sounds. From the air, the vast network of inlets, peninsulas and islands unfolds like a giant jigsaw. You’ll witness how the forested hills tumble into turquoise waters, and on a clear day, you can even glimpse the snow-capped peaks of the Kaikōura Ranges. It’s a breathtaking way to appreciate just how expansive and untouched the Marlborough Sounds really are.
⭐ Highlights
- Aerial views of the intricate coastline and islands
- Spot dolphins, whales and boats from above
- Clear-day views of the Kaikōura Ranges and Cook Strait
- Flight options range from short scenic hops to extended tours
4. Cruise the Sounds
Whether you choose a wildlife cruise, a seafood and wine experience or a private charter, nothing beats getting out on the water. Glide through sheltered bays, spot rare birds and fur seals and maybe even encounter pods of playful dolphins. Many cruises offer freshly caught local delicacies like green-lipped mussels paired with Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc—making the journey as delicious as it is scenic. Cruising is the perfect way to truly feel the rhythm of the Marlborough Sounds.
⭐ Highlights
- Seafood cruises featuring freshly harvested green-lipped mussels
- Birdwatching opportunities with rare species like king shags
- Relaxed sightseeing cruises or luxury charters available
- Combine with wine tasting for the ultimate Marlborough experience
🛥️ Explore Marlborough Cruises
5. Tirohanga Track – Hike to a Hilltop Lookout
For something shorter yet just as rewarding, take the Tirohanga Track from Picton. It’s a steady climb through native bush to a lookout that offers sweeping views over the town, harbour and Queen Charlotte Sound. The track is well-marked, relatively quick and a great option if you’re looking to stretch your legs before or after a day on the water. At the top, the payoff is a picture-perfect panorama of the Marlborough Sounds.
⭐ Highlights
- A 45–60 minute return walk from Picton’s town centre
- Shady forest track with native birdlife
- Stunning hilltop lookout with harbour and sound views
- Great option for families or travellers short on time
Final Thoughts
The Marlborough Sounds is a place that invites both adventure and stillness. Beyond these highlights, you can spend time exploring the harbour town of Picton, with its cafés, galleries, and relaxed seaside charm. Or venture inland for a classic Marlborough wine tour, where world-famous Sauvignon Blanc is poured straight from the source
👉 To plan the perfect pairing of food and wine, see our guide to the Best Wineries in Marlborough Sounds.
Whether by boat, on foot\ or in the air, the Marlborough Sounds will leave you with memories as deep and lasting as the waters themselves.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
- 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
- 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.
🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.
He moana pukepuke e ekengia e te waka
A choppy sea can be navigated by a canoe.