Why the Marlborough Sounds Should Be Your Next Escape
As you chart your course to New Zealand’s South Island, the Marlborough Sounds offer a spectacular pause — not just to refuel, but to connect with nature, indulge in local flavours, and soak up the serenity that make this region unforgettable.
With over 1,500 km of forest-lined coastline and a maze of deep blue waterways, the Sounds are a sailor’s dream. Formed by ancient, drowned valleys, the trio of Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru, and Pelorus Sounds delivers secluded anchorages, bush-covered hills, and coves so peaceful they feel like secrets whispered by the sea.
Take refuge at Ship Cove (pictured above), a historic reserve that holds a special place in New Zealand’s history, being Captain James Cook’s favourite anchorage during his three Pacific voyages in the 1770s. It is now the gateway to the Queen Charlotte Track — a five-day hike through native forest, waterfalls, and panoramic ridgelines. Even if you’re not trekking the full trail, a short walk ashore offers a taste of Marlborough’s rich heritage.
Where the Sea Meets Hospitality
The Marlborough Sounds are sprinkled with breathtaking waterfront lodges and restaurants, many offering moorings and tender services for visiting boaties.
Furneaux Lodge
Bay of Many Coves
The Lodge at Te Rawa
Punga Cove Resort
A long-standing local favourite is the historic Furneaux Lodge, where you can dine on the sweeping lawns overlooking Endeavour inlet. They also offer accommodation ranging from contemporary suites to family-friendly cottages, all nestled around the original homestead built circa 1903.
Venture around to Wilson Bay in Pelorus Sound and you’ll discover The Lodge at Te Rawa, whose waterfront restaurant welcomes both guests and day visitors. The menu features a generous selection of seafood dishes—and if you’ve had a successful day on the water, they’ll even cook your catch while you sit back and unwind.
With so many stunning options to choose from, deciding where to visit first might be the hardest part. To help you plan your journey, here’s a link to some of our top picks:
Top Spots Archives – Marlborough Marinas
Exploring the Mainland & Marlborough
Oyster Saloon at MWF 2025
The nearest mainland township to the Queen Charlotte Sound is the charming port town of Picton. Just 20 minutes inland from here lies Marlborough’s famed wine region, responsible for 75% of New Zealand’s wine production. Whether you join a guided tour or pedal between cellar doors, you’ll find award-winning Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs waiting to be sampled alongside stunning local fare.
Join us in Marlborough this February for a feast of flavour and celebration—The Marlborough Wine & Food Festival returns on 14 February 2026, marking its 39th year as New Zealand’s longest-running wine and food event. It’s your perfect chance to savour the absolute best that the region has to offer
Waikawa Marina: Your Gateway to the Sounds
Marlborough Sounds Marinas operates three marinas in the region, with Waikawa Marina and the recently completed Waikawa North West extension being the perfect launchpad for exploring the Sounds. Proud recipients of the International Clean Marina accreditation, Waikawa Marina can accommodate single and multihull vessels in a range of berths from 10 to 30m on a long term or casual basis. It offers facilities from showers and laundry to fuel stations and 24-hour security; every detail is designed for comfort and convenience.
The on-site Waikawa Marine Centre adds another layer of support, with a full-service hardstand, a 35-tonne Marine Travelift, and a network of skilled marine professionals and chandlery for any repairs or supplies you may need.
And for those who love a bit of friendly competition, the Waikawa Boating Club hosts regattas and races that blend sport with social spirit—perfect for meeting locals and making unforgettable memories.
Waikawa Marina is ideally situated just five minutes from Picton and the Cook Strait ferry terminals, 15 minutes from the nearest regional airport, and 30 minutes from Marlborough Airport—making it a convenient gateway to the international airports of Auckland and Wellington.
The Waikawa Marina team is looking forward to welcoming you.
