Wildlife Motuara Sanctuary Tour and Dolphin Cruise from Picton

Highlights

Spot native and rare birds that are threatened on New Zealand's mainland
Hike and bird-watch on Motuara Island, and refuel with hot drinks on board
Group size capped at 15 travelers for a more personalized experience

Summary

Make your way to the Picton waterfront, where you board a vessel bound for the Queen Charlotte Sound, navigating past a maze of inlets and channels. Keep your camera ready throughout the cruise, as you will likely spot fur seals, seabirds, and native dolphins on the scenic trip to Motuara Island. Here and throughout the tour, the onboard marine biologists share facts and background on the wildlife you encounter. At Motuara Island, stretch your legs on a guided nature hike and seek out some of the island’s blue penguins, saddlebacks, bellbirds, robins, native pigeons, and kakariki, or yellow-crowned parakeets. This is a great chance to see rare New Zealand species, as the birds of Motuara Island are able to nest and breed without interference from invasive predators. Following the nature hike, enjoy the return cruise to Picton, with tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and cookies served along the way.

Tour info

Duration

4 hours

Why take this tour?

Discover Marlborough’s native wildlife on a half-day, small-group Queen Charlotte Sound cruise from Picton that includes a nature walk on the Motuara Island bird sanctuary. Marine biologist guides share insights into Marlborough’s fascinating critters as you watch for seals and five species of dolphin, then get a glimpse of a pristine New Zealand forest on predator-free Motuara Island—home to native blue penguins, saddlebacks, bellbirds, and more.

What’s included?

Professional guide
Live commentary on board
National Park fees
Beverages and snacks
Tea, coffee, hot chocolate and chocolate biscuits on the return journey
Complimentary Local Wine and Mussel Samples of the PM Tour
FREE Binoculars to help you spot wildlife and Species ID cards
Entry/Admission - E-Ko Tours
Entry/Admission - Marlborough Sounds
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Things to know

Before you book

Duration: 4h
Mobile tickets accepted
Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operator Website

Operated by:

E-Ko Tours

About operator:

We provide award-winning, wildlife and conservation focused guided cruises and dolphin swimming experiences through the beautiful Marlborough Sounds. Those looking for the thrill of a lifetime can join us for our Dolphin Swim or View Experience or you could take part in our fully guided cruises to your choice of bird sanctuary islands or Historic Ship Cove. A clean green paradise of bush and sea full of natural beauty, history and wildlife is waiting to be explored and experienced. E-Ko Tours is Qualmark Enviro-Gold certified and the only local operator able to actively search for Dolphins. We provide degree qualified, professional guides on all our Tours.