Yachting in the Marlborough Sounds
Fishing in the Marlborough Sounds, NZ
Fishing in the Marlborough Sounds
Boating in the Marlborough Sounds
  • The Marlborough Sounds

    20% of NZ's coastline

  • Rivers & Lakes

    Fly & Spin Fishing

  • Know your limits

    Tips for fishing responsibly

  • Cruise

    Tours & charters

Guide

On the Water

Explore 1500km of winding coastline, secluded bays, historic sites, marine reserves and island sanctuaries, fostering kiwi and other native species.

Beautiful beaches and native bush surround the sunken valleys of water, and every bay beckons. Some can be reached by road, but the only way to really discover the sounds is by water. Kayak, sail or motor your way through the Marlborough Sounds and share in our beautiful treasure.

Cast for kawahai and salmon at the mouth of the Wairau River, or find trout in the tributaries of this beautiful braided river. Pull on your wetsuit to dive for crayfish and paua on Marlboroughs East Coast, in the currents of the Tory Channel and Port Underwood, or out of Okiwi and Elaine Bays to the west.

Go diving in secluded corners of the Queen Charlotte Sound or cast a line for blue cod and snapper in the Kenepuru and Pelorus. Some of Marlborough’s best sea fishing and diving is off d’Urville Island and French Pass, where fishing charters will ensure you find the right spots.

  1. Governors Bay
  2. Flipper Bay
  3. Kumototo Bay
  4. Blumine Island
  5. Ship Cove
  6. Dillon Bell Point
  7. Picton Marina
  8. Havelock Marina
  9. Waikawa Marina
Tash Luxton

Tash Luxton Conservation Kids Picton

“This is paradise. In so many parts of the world you have to be a millionaire to enjoy these things, but everyone can experience it here.”

My insider guide to Marlborough

Charters & boat hire

Choose to hire a boat, or charter one with a skipper and crew and explore the Marlborough Sounds.

Boat Hire

Embrace the freedom of hiring a bare boat or jetski to explore the intricate waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. It's important that you have had sufficient experience on a vessel of similar size to the one you are hiring. It is strongly reccomended that you brush up on boating safety and navigation before heading out. Visit the Cruise Guide to get started.

Chartered Trips

Charters are the perfect way to get out on the water. Having a skipper and crew allows you to put your feet up and relax while being provided with great local knowledge, and having the freedom to visit the best spots for your group.

Main photo by Daniel Forster

Charters & boat hire map

Search & book

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