Departing from the Picton I-Site, this guided Jade Wine Tour transfers you by air-conditioned minibus to the Wairau Valley for a personalised tasting experience. Visit a selection of large and family-run wineries to sample Marlborough’s famous Sauvignon Blanc and other varietals, learn about barrel maturation in the cellars, and enjoy scenic photo stops.
Each tour is planned around the specific arrival and departure times of your cruise ship, allowing for a flexible itinerary that makes the most of your time ashore while ensuring a comfortable return to port. The tour includes a stop for lunch at a vineyard restaurant (own cost) and, time permitting, a visit to a chocolate factory and a lookout with views of your ship.
Free shuttle buses take passengers from the quay to the Picton i-site (or a short walk from the small berth terminal).
Our Jade Tours vans and guides will be waiting in the carpark. The default tour start time is 9.30am. Please make an effort to get off the ship early to be at the carpark just after 9.00am. Some ships arrive later and you will be advised of the appropriate departure time.
Meet your guide at the Picton i-Site after your cruise ship docks. Then board a luxury minibus and enjoy the drive through the Koromiko mountain pass to the Marlborough wine region while your guide points out ecological and historical places of interest; this small-group tour is limited to 11 people to ensure a more intimate atmosphere. You will visit four or five cellar doors (time permitting) around the Marlborough vineyards. Taste their award winning wines and learn how Marlborough's Sauvignon Blanc has reached the pinnacle of sophistication, then take a stroll through a vineyard and learn how climate, soil, and skill combine to make these incredible wines. Marlborough is not all about Sauvignon Blanc - we have stunning Rieslings, crisp and fruity Pinot Gris, oaked and unoaked Chardonnay and our renown Pinot Noir. A stop will be made for lunch (own expense), featuring delicacies such as mussels, salmon, venison or beef when available. Alternatively, a light meal of gourmet local cheeses to pair with your wine might suffice. On the way back to the port, we stop at the chocolate factory for a nibble of hand-made gourmet chocolates. You will return to the Picton wharf at least 90 minutes before your cruise ship departs.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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