Wilderness Guides – Kayak, Walking & Bike Trips in the Marlborough Sounds
Guided Kayak Trips on the Marlborough Sounds
Embark on an unforgettable journey with Wilderness Guides, offering expertly led kayaking, walking, and mountain biking trips through the awe-inspiring Marlborough Sounds, one of New Zealand’s most pristine and diverse natural environments.
Located at the top of the South Island, the Marlborough Sounds boasts a unique combination of sheltered bays, lush native bush, and stunning coastlines, providing the perfect backdrop for adventurers of all levels.
Whether you’re new to outdoor exploration or a seasoned adventurer, Wilderness Guides cater to your needs, delivering unforgettable experiences that connect you with nature.
Kayaking Adventures
Our guided sea kayaking tours take you through the tranquil waters of Queen Charlotte Sound and beyond, offering the chance to paddle through secluded bays, encounter local marine life such as dolphins, seals, and penguins, and explore hidden coves.
Whether you’re seeking a half-day kayak adventure or a multi-day expedition with overnight stays at scenic campsites or comfortable lodges, Wilderness Guides has the perfect kayaking experience for you.
Enjoy the peace and serenity of the Marlborough Sounds as you glide through the water, taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
Walking Tours
Explore the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds on foot with our expertly curated walking tours, including the famous Queen Charlotte Track. This 70km trail meanders through lush native bush, along ridgelines offering panoramic views of the sounds, and past historic landmarks.
With multi-day guided hikes, you’ll experience the full length of this iconic track, staying at eco-friendly campsites or lodges along the way.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely day hike or a multi-day trek, Wilderness Guides’ walking tours allow you to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the region while learning about its rich history and ecology.
Mountain Biking Adventures
For thrill-seekers, Wilderness Guides also offers exhilarating mountain biking trips through the Marlborough Sounds.
The Queen Charlotte Track is not only a premier hiking destination but also a world-class mountain biking trail.
With sections suitable for riders of varying skill levels, it’s the perfect way to experience the rugged beauty of the region on two wheels.
Our guided mountain biking tours take you through lush forests, over rolling hills, and along ridgelines, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the sounds below.
Whether you’re looking for a day ride or a multi-day biking adventure, our guides ensure a safe and exciting journey through the scenic landscapes of the Marlborough Sounds.
Tailored Experiences and Local Expertise
At Wilderness Guides, we pride ourselves on creating small-group, personalized adventures that allow you to experience the beauty of the Marlborough Sounds in a meaningful way.
Our experienced local guides are passionate about the region, sharing their in-depth knowledge of the area’s wildlife, ecosystems, and history as they lead you through your chosen adventure.
Whether you’re kayaking, hiking, or biking, our guides ensure that your journey is safe, fun, and unforgettable.
Discover the Marlborough Sounds
Let Wilderness Guides be your gateway to the Marlborough Sounds, where you can paddle through turquoise waters, hike along ancient trails, or ride through lush forests and rolling hills.
Our range of guided kayaking, walking, and mountain biking tours offers the perfect escape into the wild beauty of this unique region. Whether you’re seeking a half-day outing or a multi-day expedition, our tailored adventures ensure you experience the very best of the Marlborough Sounds.
Book your next Marlborough Sounds kayaking, walking, or mountain biking adventure with Wilderness Guides and discover the wonders of this iconic New Zealand destination with passionate local experts committed to eco-friendly tourism and sustainable practices.
Our Kayak & Walking Tour Options on the Marlborough Sounds:
Half Day Queen Charlotte Sound Guided Kayak
Price: $110 per person
Departs: 8:30 am & 12:30 pm
Duration: 4 Hours
Meet us at the Picton Waterfront at either 8:30am or 12:30pm, where we’ll take care of a bit of paperwork before heading to our launch point at Ngakuta Bay, a scenic 20-minute drive from Picton.
We aim to take you to the western end of Queen Charlotte Sound, away from the busier harbour, where you’ll explore stunning bays and coves, while encountering wildlife in their natural habitat. On calmer days, we may start directly from Picton Harbour to maximize your time on the water.
After a thorough safety briefing, we’ll embark on a memorable half-day kayak adventure. Our experienced guide will ensure your comfort and share local knowledge as you paddle through the crystal-clear waters. The route will vary depending on conditions, allowing us to cater to all abilities and make the most of the sea breezes.
During your tour, you’ll likely spot stingrays, eagle rays, sea birds like cormorants, and possibly even little blue penguins, seals, or dolphins.
Return times are approximately 12:30pm for the morning tour or 4:30pm for the afternoon tour.
Book your half-day kayaking adventure with us and explore the natural beauty of Marlborough Sounds!
One Day Queen Charlotte Sound Guided Kayak
Price: $165 per person
Departs: 8:30 am
Duration: 8 Hours
Join us at the Picton Waterfront at 8:30am before we head to Ngakuta Bay, just a 20-minute scenic drive away. From here, we’ll set off for the less-traveled western end of Queen Charlotte Sound, where you can explore stunning bays, hidden coves, and experience the natural beauty away from boat traffic.
After a thorough safety briefing, you’ll begin a full day of paddling with one of our expert guides, who will share local insights and ensure a comfortable, enjoyable experience. Our flexible routes take advantage of daily weather conditions, so we can cater to all skill levels and make the most of the sea breezes.
During your journey, you might spot stingrays, eagle rays, cormorants, little blue penguins, and possibly even seals or dolphins. Along the way, we’ll take a break for a delicious, locally sourced lunch—one of the best kayaking lunches in Marlborough Sounds.
All gear, including double kayaks (singles available on request), life jackets, spray decks, and dry bags, is provided. Return to Picton is around 4:00pm.
Book your full-day kayaking adventure and experience the stunning Marlborough Sounds with us!
One Day Kayak & Walk Adventure
Price: $150 per person
Departs: 8:30 am
Duration: 8 Hours
Start your day at the Picton Waterfront at 8:30am before we head to Ngakuta Bay, a scenic 20-minute drive away. This tour takes you to the tranquil western end of Queen Charlotte Sound, far from the busy harbour, where you’ll explore beautiful bays and coves, spotting wildlife along the way.
After a safety briefing, begin your guided sea kayaking adventure along the stunning coastline. Paddle past the lush shoreline, spotting stingrays, sea birds, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the Marlborough Sounds. Your kayak tour ends at Anakiwa, where you’ll swap your paddle for hiking boots.
From Anakiwa, embark on an independent 11km hike along the Queen Charlotte Track to Mistletoe Bay, one of the most scenic sections of the track. The 3-4 hour walk offers beautiful views, native bush, and serene beaches.
At the end of the hike, you’ll be picked up by a water taxi at 4pm for a scenic ride back to Picton, with stunning views of the route you’ve just explored. Return to Picton by approximately 4:30pm.
Book your one-day kayak and walk adventure for an unforgettable exploration of Marlborough Sounds!
Full Day Guided Walk in the Marlborough Sounds
Price: $550 per person
Departs: 7:30 am
Duration: 9 hours
Begin your adventure with a morning pick-up from your Picton accommodation and meet your Wilderness Guide. You’ll board a scenic water taxi for a one-hour journey from Picton to Ship Cove, passing salmon farms and spotting sea birds along the way. Ship Cove is a significant historical site, once frequented by Captain Cook and an early settlement for Maori.
Your guided walk along the Queen Charlotte Track starts at Ship Cove and ends at Endeavour Inlet. This premier section of the track showcases stunning native bush including podocarp, beech forest, and punga ferns, offering spectacular views over the Queen Charlotte Sound. Along the way, your guide will share insights into the area’s European and Maori history, as well as the unique birds and plants of the region.
Enjoy a freshly packed lunch and a cup of coffee or tea while taking in the breathtaking views of the Marlborough Sounds. At the end of the walk, relax at the historic Furneaux Lodge, where you can purchase a refreshing drink before your water taxi ride back to Picton in the late afternoon.
Book your full-day guided walk on the Queen Charlotte Track and explore the natural beauty and rich history of the Marlborough Sounds!
Three Day Hike, Bike & Kayak Combo Adventure
Ensuite style Standard accommodation
Price: $1080 per person
Departs: 7:30 am
Duration: 3 Days
This three-day adventure is the ultimate way to experience the best of Queen Charlotte Sound, combining hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking, with nights camping under the stars.
Day 1: Hike from Ship Cove to Furneaux Lodge
After a pre-tour briefing at the Wilderness Guides office, you’ll take a water taxi to historic Ship Cove, where your Queen Charlotte Track hike begins.
Explore the lush native bush and significant sites of Captain Cook and early Maori settlement.
Your hike ends at Furneaux Lodge, followed by a water taxi across Endeavour Inlet to Punga Cove.
Day 2: Mountain Bike from Punga Cove to Torea Saddle
Start the day with a mountain bike ride along the Queen Charlotte Track, enjoying breathtaking views of both Kenepuru and Queen Charlotte Sounds.
The track features ridgeline paths, undulating terrain, and scenic stops like Bay of Many Coves. For a less challenging ride, the Kenepuru Road is a scenic alternative. Finish at Torea Saddle and descend to Portage Bay.
Day 3: Kayak from Torea Bay to Ngakuta Bay or Picton
Today, you’ll embark on a kayaking adventure around the Queen Charlotte Sound, paddling through tranquil bays and coves. Spot wildlife like dolphins, little blue penguins, and fur seals.
Enjoy a beachside lunch at a secluded spot before concluding your trip at either Ngakuta Bay or Picton Harbour, depending on the weather.
Book this three-day hike, bike, and kayak adventure for the ultimate outdoor experience in the stunning Marlborough Sounds!
