Getting to the Marlborough Sounds

Picton is nestled at the head of the Marlborough Sounds. One of the great things about getting to Picton is the journey. There is no doubt - no matter how you travel here - the scenery will be breathtaking.

The Interislander Ferry

If you are arriving in Wellington either by car or plane, then we recommend you take the leisurely three hour cruise from the North Island to the South Island.. The Interislander ferry travels across Cook Strait and through part of Queen Charlotte Sound, docking right in Picton. We can now book your Interislander ferry tickets for you. Please note that we have a standard rate for Interislander fares, available all year. There may be times where a cheaper fare is available from Interislander directly.

• Contact us if you would like us to book your ferry for you

Travelling by Car

Picton is a 25 minute drive from Blenheim. Blenheim is a four and a half hour drive from Christchurch, and a two hour drive from Nelson (allowing for rest-stops, road conditions and so on). All car rental companies have a terminal in Picton.

Travelling by Plane

Soundsair are a small local airline that operate from a small airport ten minutes from Picton. They have up to eight
departures a day between Wellington and Picton. They also have a shuttle bus that transfers directly into Picton.
You can fly into any of the major cities in New Zealand and take either a direct flight to Blenheim, or come via Wellington.
Air New Zealand is the only major airline to fly into Blenheim. From Blenheim a 25-minute shuttle/taxi ride is required to Picton, at a cost of around $70 per fare.

Travelling by Train

Transcenic have a train service from Christchurch to Picton. The train ride is indeed very scenic - at some points
travelling right next to the shoreline - as it journeys up the East Coast of the South Island.