Picton’s world-famous Marlborough wine region offers an array of expertly guided excursions from the cruise port.
The most practical and enjoyable options include intimate small-group tours visiting 4-5 excellent wineries with generous tastings and local treats.
I especially love the half-day small-group tours – they provide the perfect mix of wine education and relaxed sightseeing without feeling rushed.
For better value, the 5-hour group tours hit all the highlights while keeping costs reasonable.
Private tours, though pricier, allow families or small groups to explore at their own pace, mixing vineyard visits with stops at gardens and museums.
Check out these top-rated tours that showcase the best of Picton’s wine country.
Key Points
- The Marlborough wine region shore excursion offers a personalized experience with visits to 4-5 award-winning wineries and a chocolate tasting.
- Small-group tours (maximum 18 participants) provide a more intimate experience with insights from knowledgeable guides and stops at a chocolate factory.
- A highly recommended wine tour experience includes visits to 5 wineries, an Asian salmon salad lunch, and a maximum group size of 11 for personalized attention.
- A 5-star rated shore excursion explores the Marlborough wine region with visits to 4 local wineries and a Marlborough Platter lunch, with a maximum group size of 10.
- Private shore excursions offer a comprehensive and flexible experience, including wine, food, scenic views, and visits to award-winning gardens and the Omaka Aviation Museum.
Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour
The Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour offers a delightful opportunity for cruise passengers to explore the renowned wine region of Marlborough.
With a maximum group size of 11 travelers, this 5-star rated tour takes guests to 4-5 award-winning wineries for tastings and a vineyard tour. The experience also includes a chocolate tasting, all led by a knowledgeable local guide.
While the lunch is an additional cost, the tour provides port pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this shore excursion is an excellent way to take in the region’s wine and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Picton CRUISE SHIP Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Picton Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Small-Group Tour
A 5-hour Picton shore excursion takes travelers on a small-group tour through the renowned Marlborough wine region. The tour includes visits to 4-5 wineries where participants can sample Sauvignon Blanc, reds, rosés, and sparkling wines.
Along the way, they’ll also stop at a chocolate factory. With a maximum of 18 travelers, the tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide.
While most reviews are positive, citing beautiful scenery and informative insights, some travelers noted issues with communication about tour timing changes.
Read our full review: Picton Shore Excursion Marlborough Wine Region Small-Group Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Small-Group Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Wineries
Discover the renowned Marlborough wine region on this small-group shore excursion from Picton.
Recommended by 93% of travelers, this award-winning tour takes you to explore the best local wineries. You’ll visit 5 wineries, enjoying all standard tasting fees, and savor a delightful Asian salmon salad for lunch.
With a maximum group size of 11, you’ll receive personalized attention from your knowledgeable tour host, who provides local commentary.
Departing at 10 am from the Picton Information Centre, this 5-star experience returns to the starting point, making it easy to continue your Picton adventure.
Book now for $143.92 and take advantage of the free cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Small-Group Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Wineries Review
Book now: Check availability
Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton
Explore the renowned Marlborough wine region on this shore excursion from Picton. Conducted by Marlborough Wine Tours, this 5-star rated tour takes you to 4 local wineries for tastings and a delightful Marlborough Platter lunch.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from knowledgeable guides who provide historical insights. The tour includes all wine tasting fees and a glass of wine with lunch.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a newcomer, this small-group experience offers a fantastic opportunity to discover the flavors of Marlborough.
The tour concludes back at the Picton i-SITE Visitor Information Centre, with transportation provided from the port or ferry terminal.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton Review
Book now: Check availability
Cruise Excursion – Wines of Marlborough Tour
The Wines of Marlborough Tour offers visitors a chance to enjoy the renowned Marlborough wine region, renowned for its world-class Sauvignon Blanc and other acclaimed varietals.
Operated by Explore Marlborough Wine Tours, this shore excursion takes guests to boutique wineries, where they can sample wines with all cellar door charges included.
The tour also includes a scenic drive through the Koromiko Valley and a visit to a local chocolate factory.
While lunch isn’t included, options vary in price.
With a maximum group size of 11 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides who can answer questions about wine and winemaking.
Read our full review: Cruise Excursion – Wines of Marlborough Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Private Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Highlights
This private shore excursion from Picton takes travelers on a comprehensive exploration of the renowned Marlborough region.
Priced at $1,171.65 for up to 8 participants, the 5-hour tour offers an exclusive experience, including wine tasting and gourmet food options.
Visitors can enjoy a flexible itinerary, mixing wine, food, scenic beauty, art galleries, and local attractions.
The tour also includes visits to award-winning gardens, the Omaka Aviation Museum, and opportunities to sample local seafood, boutique chocolates, and other regional delights.
With a confirmed start time aligned to your ship’s schedule and a comfortable vehicle accommodating up to 9 passengers, this shore excursion promises an immersive and memorable Marlborough experience.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion From Picton: Marlborough Highlights Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Picton offers an array of exciting shore excursions for cruise ship passengers. From Marlborough wine tours to private highlights experiences, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. With small-group options and opportunities to indulge in local cuisine, these excursions provide an immersive and memorable way to explore the region’s natural beauty and renowned vineyards.