Queen Charlotte Track - Ultimate one Day Walk and Cruise
4.9 / 5 · 10 traveler reviews
We are the only Marlborough Sounds Guided Walk company with our own boats. Your day starts with the Ultimate Wildlife Cruise through the calm sheltered waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound. You get on board binoculars for viewing wildlife and species ID cards with a WCA Qualified Guide. Dolphins 95% of the time :-) Spend 1 hour on Motuara Island with its stunning views and range of Endangered Species where you can get close-up encounters with Rare Birds. The lookout has an amazing panoramic view. We pay DOC your access fee. E-ko started Guided Walks on this island 25 years ago. After you visit Motuara - Sanctuary Island, then head to the famous Ship Cove. There you can Walk the BEST of Queen Charlotte Track in a Loop. Trees up to 1500 years old only with us, Hidden in the bush. Self Guided with a Map showing you where the hidden gems are :-) Re-live History and embrace nature. Walk the BEST 5km, relax at Ship Cove with a complimentary glass of Pinot Gris, and enjoy the return cruise.
Your experience
Stop 1
Picton is a major hub in New Zealand's transport network, connecting the South Island road and rail network with ferries across Cook Strait to Wellington and the North Island. The Picton urban area has a population of 4,800 (June 2022), making it the second-largest town in the Marlborough Region behind Blenheim.
Stop 2
Embark on a fully guided wildlife and dolphin cruise like no other. Travel from Picton through the Marlborough Sounds on a scenic journey to Motuara Island Bird Sanctuary. Our comfortable vessels and expert team take you on a conservation-focused, wildlife adventure for your soul. Expert commentary and fantastic viewing areas allow you to enjoy playful Hector’s, Common, Bottlenose or Dusky Dolphins (90% encounter rate!). We also see NZ fur seals and numerous seabirds before landing on Motuara Island for a 1-hour nature lover’s walk to remember – great for adults and kids alike.
Stop 3
Welcome to Motuara Island Motuara Island is 100% predator-free and is home to some rare species such as the yellow-crowned Parakeet and Saddleback. Explore the island on your own or go with our knowledgeable guide who will point out and describe the resident blue penguins, rare saddleback, melodic bellbirds, cheeky robins, native pigeons and yellow-crowned parakeets (kakariki). If it’s a clear day, you will also be able to spot the North Island in the distance. The view from the Cook Strait lookout is absolutely spectacular! Friendly Birds The birds on this predator-free island are fearless, plentiful and very vocal. It’s not unusual for you to be able to get very close to these amazing creatures – there’ll be plenty of photo opportunities. Our expert guides will be with you all the way – our team are passionate about the local environment and love to share its unique aspects with our small groups. Historical Significance as Captain Cook planted a FLAG ontop in 1771 - Amazing views
Stop 4
Experience the spectacular Marlborough Sounds by walking or biking the Queen Charlotte Track. The track stretches 73.5 km from historic Meretoto/Ship Cove through to Anakiwa in Queen Charlotte Sound.
Stop 5
Meretoto/Ship Cove was James Cook’s favourite New Zealand base during his three voyages of exploration. It is also part of the rich history of Polynesian navigation and has great significance for local Māori. Meretoto/Ship Cove has a significant history for early inhabitants Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Kuia and Rangitāne, the later Ngāti Toa, and the current guardians Te Ātiawa.
What’s included
- anding and/or facility fees
- FREE Images from our Online Photo gallery of Wildlife
- Use of Onboard binoculars and Species ID cards
Not included
- Lunch
Meeting and pickup
Look for the Seal and the Dolphin at the Corner of Wellington street and London Quay , check in at E-ko Tours :-)
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Must be fit enough to Walk 5 km
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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