Cruise Ship Shore Tour – Discovery Wine Tour Picton Marlborogh

The Discovery Wine Tour in Picton, Marlborough offers cruise ship passengers a chance to explore the renowned wineries of the Wairau Valley. With a maximum of 11 travelers, the tour provides personalized wine tastings of exquisite sauvignon blancs and pinot noirs, along with a delightful chocolate sampling at a boutique factory. Seamless transportation from the cruise ship drop-off ensures a hassle-free and enriching adventure that showcases the stunning Marlborough scenery and local viticulture. For those seeking an immersive winery experience during their shore excursion, this tour promises an unforgettable taste of the region’s world-class wines and local delicacies.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Picton.

Key Points

• A small-group wine tour designed for cruise ship passengers, showcasing Marlborough’s premier wineries with tastings and chocolate sampling.
• Pickup and return transportation provided from the Picton cruise ship drop-off point, aligned with arrival and departure times.
• Knowledgeable tour host and air-conditioned vehicle for a personalized and comfortable experience.
• Opportunity to sample a variety of Marlborough’s renowned wines, including crisp sauvignon blancs and bold pinot noirs.
• Positive customer reviews highlighting the tour’s quality, knowledgeable host, and immersive winery experiences.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Discovery Wine Tour in Picton, Marlborough is a cruise ship shore excursion designed for passengers to explore the region’s top wineries.

During this tour, visitors will get to visit around five premier wineries in the Wairau Valley, sampling a variety of wines along the way. Wine tastings are included, and you can also purchase lunch if desired.

The small-group setting, with a maximum of 11 travelers, ensures a personalized experience with the knowledgeable tour host. Participants will also have the opportunity to sample chocolate at a boutique factory, adding a delightful treat to the wine-focused itinerary.

With transportation provided from the cruise ship drop-off and alignment with arrival and departure times, this tour offers a seamless and enriching shore excursion experience.

Meeting and Transportation Details

Participants meet at the Picton Information Centre in Picton 7220, New Zealand, where the tour host will provide transportation from the cruise ship drop-off at the Picton I-Site.

The air-conditioned vehicle will take guests on the discovery wine tour through the Wairau Valley in the Marlborough region.

At the end of the tour, travelers will be returned to the Picton I-Site.

The tour schedules are aligned with the cruise ship arrival and departure times, ensuring a seamless experience for the passengers.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to explore the local vineyards, this shore excursion offers a convenient and personalized way to experience the best of Marlborough’s wine scene.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

This wine tour includes all standard tasting fees at the participating wineries, as well as the GST (Goods and Services Tax).

Plus, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable tour host to provide local commentary throughout the experience.

However, the cost of any lunch or platters is at the guest’s own discretion.

The tour doesn’t include:

• Lunch/platter costs
• Gratuities
• Anything not explicitly listed as an inclusion

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted.

Tour Restrictions and Accessibility

The Discovery Wine Tour in Picton, Marlborough isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate. Service animals are permitted on the tour.

The tour is designed for adults only, with no children allowed. This ensures a personalized experience in a small-group setting, with a maximum of 11 travelers.

While the tour locations and transportation may pose some accessibility challenges, the tour provider aims to accommodate travelers to the best of their ability. Guests should communicate any special needs or concerns prior to booking to ensure the tour is a suitable fit.

Positive Customer Reviews

Reviewers have consistently praised the Discovery Wine Tour’s knowledgeable guides and welcoming winery experiences, contributing to the tour’s impressive 5.0 overall rating from 15 reviews.

Highlights from the feedback include:

• Toni, the tour host, was lauded for her deep knowledge that enhanced the overall experience.

• Guests appreciated the friendliness and hospitality shown by the wineries visited, making the tour a truly memorable outing.

• The beautiful Marlborough scenery complemented the high-quality wine tastings, leaving travelers with a well-rounded appreciation for the region.

With personalized attention in a small-group setting, the Discovery Wine Tour provides cruise ship passengers an exceptional introduction to Picton’s renowned vineyards.

Winery Experiences

The Discovery Wine Tour’s winery experiences introduce guests to Marlborough’s renowned viticulture, showcasing the region’s welcoming hospitality and world-class wines. Visitors are greeted by passionate winemakers who share the stories behind their vineyards and vintages. Whether sampling crisp sauvignon blancs or bold pinot noirs, guests delight in the flavors that have made Marlborough a premier wine destination. The tour’s carefully curated winery stops provide a personalized touch, allowing travelers to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the dedication that goes into each bottle.

Winery Highlights
Boutique Charm	Friendly Staff	Award-Winning Wines
Picturesque Views	Intimate Tastings	Sustainable Practices
Educational Tours	Artisanal Pairings	Memorable Experiences

Boutique Chocolate Sampling

Aside from the celebrated wines, the Discovery Wine Tour also treats guests to a delightful chocolate sampling experience at a boutique factory in the Marlborough region.

Nestled amidst the picturesque vineyards, the factory offers a unique opportunity to savor handcrafted chocolate creations. Guests can:

• Observe the artisanal chocolate-making process

• Sample a variety of flavors, from classic dark chocolate to unique infusions

• Learn about the rich history and sustainable practices of the boutique operation

This chocolate indulgence perfectly complements the wine tasting, providing a well-rounded sensory adventure for cruise ship passengers exploring the flavors of Marlborough.

Tour Schedule and Alignment

The Discovery Wine Tour’s schedule is meticulously aligned with cruise ship arrivals and departures, ensuring seamless transportation and a hassle-free experience for guests. Passengers are picked up from the Picton I-Site, located conveniently near the cruise ship drop-off, and returned to the same location after the tour. This coordination allows the tour to operate seamlessly, maximizing the time guests have to explore the picturesque Marlborough region. The tour’s schedule is designed to accommodate the schedules of various cruise lines, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a curated wine tasting experience during their shore excursion.

Meeting Point	Transportation	Return
Picton Information Centre	From cruise ship drop-off at Picton I-Site	To Picton I-Site
Picton 7220, New Zealand	Air-conditioned vehicle	After the tour

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Wine Can I Sample During the Tour?

Participants can sample wine at each of the approximately five wineries visited during the tour. The tour includes all standard tasting fees, allowing travelers to enjoy a variety of wines in a personalized small-group setting.

Is Photography Allowed at the Wineries?

Photography is generally allowed at the wineries during the tour. However, guests are advised to check with staff at each winery for any specific policies or restrictions regarding photography. Respectful photography that doesn’t disrupt operations is typically permitted.

Can I Purchase Wine to Take Back to My Ship?

Yes, guests can purchase wine at the wineries to take back to their cruise ship. The tour allows time for guests to browse and purchase wines they sampled during the tastings.

Are There Any Discounts for Cruise Line Passengers?

Yes, cruise line passengers often receive discounts on shore excursions like wine tours. The Discovery Wine Tour in Picton, Marlborough offers special rates for cruise ship passengers, making it an affordable and enjoyable experience.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves visits to multiple wineries and outdoor activities. There are no formal dress requirements for participants.

Recap

The Discovery Wine Tour in Picton, Marlborough offers cruise ship passengers a captivating exploration of renowned local wineries and a delightful chocolate sampling.

With personalized tastings, seamless transportation, and stunning scenery, the tour provides an enriching and hassle-free experience that highlights the exceptional viticulture of the Wairau Valley.

This specialized tour is an unforgettable way for visitors to enjoy the region’s acclaimed wine and culinary offerings.