Queen Charlotte Scenic Cruise

OVERVIEW

Cruise pristine Queen Charlotte Sound by catamaran, surrounded by beauty as you explore the rugged shoreline. Like the other sounds that combine to form the Marlborough Sounds network, Queen Charlotte was formed when deep river valleys filled with seawater at the end of the last ice age. The result is a meandering wonderland of azure separated by steep green hills and laced with alluring bays and coves. A few scattered settlements dot the otherwise-wild coastline, most of them so isolated they can only be reached by boat. In fact, this landscape hasn’t changed much at all since James Cook sheltered here during his exploratory voyages in the 1770s. And that’s the true beauty of it. Your own exploratory voyage begins right from the pier, aboard a comfortable catamaran designed for sightseeing on these typically calm waters. Rounding the bays, you’ll be treated to panoramic views bound to capture your imagination as few other places can. Along the way, you’ll loiter in Double Cove a while to feed the locals – who usually include hungry herring, mullet and cod. Don’t be surprised to see king shag cormorants swooping in to feast too; they’re highly skilled anglers. Your tour ends in downtown where you will have some time to explore on your own before taking the shuttle back to your ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Be immersed in natural beauty on a catamaran cruise around Queen Charlotte Sound.
• Gaze in wonder at this network of river valleys swamped by the sea some 10,000 years ago.
• Round a rugged shoreline little changed from when Captain Cook sheltered here in the 1770s.
• In a quiet cove, spend time feeding grateful herring, mullet and cod – and watch cormorants swoop in for their share.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.