Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge

Set out on a delightful cruise and savor a seasonal lunch at the renowned Furneaux Lodge. This scenic journey aboard the Cougar Line vessel promises captivating commentary from the captain as you take in the stunning Marlborough Sounds. With a maximum of 15 travelers, this intimate experience offers a memorable escape from the everyday. Depart from the picturesque London Quay in Picton and indulge in a 1-course meal, with options like a barbecue buffet. While the cruise may not be wheelchair accessible, the breathtaking views and culinary delights are sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 5 Best Lunch Experiences In Picton.

Key Points

• The cruise offers a 1-course lunch from a seasonal set menu during the voyage from Picton to Furneaux Lodge.
• The cruise departs from London Quay in Picton and includes roundtrip transportation to the lodge.
• The cruise experience features commentary provided by the captain in English.
• The cruise and lunch are not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are permitted onboard.
• The cruise has an overall rating of 2.5 out of 5 based on mixed customer reviews.

Overview of the Activity

The activity involves a cruise on the Cougar Line vessel from Picton, New Zealand to Furneaux Lodge, where participants enjoy a 1-course lunch from a set menu.

The cruise departs from the Cougar Line – Queen Charlotte Track Cruises’ meeting point at London Quay in Picton.

The journey features commentary provided by the captain in English.

Upon arrival at Furneaux Lodge, travelers are served a 1-course lunch, which may vary seasonally and could be a barbecue buffet.

The roundtrip transportation between Picton and the lodge is included in the package.

Location and Meeting Point

The cruise and lunch activity departs from the Cougar Line – Queen Charlotte Track Cruises meeting point at London Quay in Picton, New Zealand.

Picton is a town located at the head of the Queen Charlotte Sound, a scenic and sheltered inlet on the South Island’s northeastern coast. The meeting point at London Quay provides easy access to the Cougar Line vessel that will take guests on their cruise and lunch experience.

Picton’s picturesque harbor setting and proximity to the Marlborough Sounds make it an ideal starting point for this tour. Travelers can conveniently reach the meeting point, which is the designated location to board the cruise and begin their day’s adventure.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This activity includes a cruise on a Cougar Line vessel, return transport to Furneaux Lodge from Picton, and a 1-course lunch from a set menu that may vary seasonally, with the possibility of a BBQ buffet.

The cruise also features commentary provided by the captain in English.

However, beverages and any additional food not mentioned are excluded, and transportation to Picton is also not included in the package.

The exclusions for this activity include:

• Beverages
• Food not mentioned in the inclusions
• Transportation to Picton

Despite the inclusions, the overall experience has received mixed reviews, with no 5-star, 4-star, or 3-star ratings recorded, and all reviews being 1-star or 2-star.

Confirmation and Accessibility

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this activity. It’s important to note that the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge isn’t wheelchair accessible, although service animals are allowed. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

Travelers should also be aware that no serious medical conditions are allowed, as the safety and well-being of all participants are the top priority.

With these accessibility considerations in mind, the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic waterways of Picton, New Zealand, while enjoying a delicious one-course lunch in a picturesque setting.

Infant and Medical Considerations

Infants must sit on laps during the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge, as the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers.

Plus, guests with serious medical conditions aren’t allowed to participate, as the safety and well-being of all participants are the top priority.

Consider the following factors when deciding if this activity is suitable for you:

• Potential discomfort for infants during the cruise

• Limited space and seating capacity

• Suitability for those with mobility or health concerns

• Potential disappointment if unable to participate due to medical restrictions

• Need for alternative arrangements for infants and those with medical conditions

Cancellation Policy and Start Time

Travelers can cancel their booking for the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge up to 24 hours before the start time without incurring any charges. This free cancellation policy provides flexibility for customers who may need to change their plans.

The tour departs at 9:30 AM, so travelers should plan to arrive at the Cougar Line – Queen Charlotte Track Cruises in Picton with enough time to board the vessel.

The cruise and lunch experience lasts for the duration of the morning, with the return transport to Picton scheduled as part of the package.

Customers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed onboard.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

According to the available reviews, the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge experience has received mixed feedback from customers.

Specifically, one reviewer, Henry_F, reported feeling ‘scammed’ due to conflicting return time information between the Viator listing and the local tour operator, which led to a missed tour.

The overall rating based on reviews from Viator and TripAdvisor is 2.5 out of 5, with no 5-star, 4-star, or 3-star reviews recorded.

Customers have expressed the following sentiments:

• Disappointment with the overall experience

• Frustration over miscommunication and logistical issues

• Concerns about the quality of the food and service

• Feeling misled by the marketing or description of the tour

• Uncertainty about the reliability of the tour provider

Pricing and Booking Options

With a lowest price guarantee starting from €74.93, the Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge experience can be booked directly through the provider’s website.

Plus, customers have the option to reserve now and pay later for this tour. Checking availability for the selected time slot is easy, allowing travelers to plan their trip with ease.

The reasonable pricing and flexible booking options make this cruise and lunch package an accessible and convenient choice for those looking to explore Picton and the Furneaux Lodge. Customers can secure their spot ahead of time and pay later, ensuring a stress-free booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Cruise and Lunch?

There is no specific dress code mentioned for this cruise and lunch activity. However, it’s generally recommended to wear comfortable, casual clothing suitable for a boat ride and a relaxed meal. Guests should dress for the weather and be prepared for the possibility of cooler temperatures on the water.

Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements That Can Be Accommodated?

According to the information provided, special dietary requirements can be accommodated for this tour. Guests should inform the operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure their preferences are met during the 1-course lunch.

What Is the Duration of the Cruise and Lunch Experience?

The duration of the cruise and lunch experience is not explicitly stated in the provided information. However, based on the start time of 9:30 am, it’s likely a half-day or full-day activity, though the exact length is not specified.

Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Cruise?

Passengers generally can’t bring their own alcoholic beverages on a cruise. Most cruise operators don’t allow it, instead offering their own selection of alcoholic drinks for purchase. Bringing your own alcohol may be prohibited or result in additional fees.

Are There Any Photography or Video Recording Restrictions on the Tour?

There are typically no restrictions on photography or video recording during tours, unless explicitly stated by the tour operator. Guests are usually free to capture photos and videos throughout the experience, subject to any safety or privacy guidelines.

Recap

Set out on a scenic cruise through the stunning Marlborough Sounds, indulge in a delectable 1-course lunch at Furneaux Lodge, and enjoy captivating commentary from the captain.

This intimate adventure offers a memorable escape, though it’s important to note it’s not wheelchair accessible.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this cruise provides a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty.