Picton Waterfront Walk

OVERVIEW

Take a scenic walk along Picton’s waterfront as your local guide provides color on the city’s cultural, natural and architectural landmarks. You’ll shuttle from the pier to the heart of town and the white-arched War Memorial dedicated to locals lost in the battles of World War I. Strolling the waterfront from here, you’ll learn about Picton’s whaling history and its ongoing efforts to protect these magnificent mammals. A walk around the marina’s jumble of private yachts and commercial fishing vessels puts a spotlight on how intertwined this community is with the sea. Crossing a picturesque pedestrian bridge and ascending to a lookout point, enjoy spectacular views out into Queen Charlotte Sound – part of a vast network of ancient river valleys now covered by ocean water. Separated by steeply forested peaks, these Marlborough Sounds collectively comprise a fifth of the entire New Zealand coastline. Arriving at the crafts market and the walk’s end, enjoy a complimentary coffee, tea or a uniquely Kiwi treat – a scoop of vanilla ice cream with lumps of honeycomb toffee known as a hokey pokey. Afterwards, explore Picton further at your leisure or shuttle back to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a relaxed Picton walk, taking in natural beauty, waterfront landmarks and historical commentary.
• Ascend to a lookout point for fabulous views of Queen Charlotte Sound, a river valley flooded with sea water 10,000 years ago.
• Walk the bustling city marina and see a craft market where talented artisans display their creations.
• Sip a complimentary coffee or tea, or slurp a cool, gooey Kiwi ice cream treat known as a hokey pokey.
• Stay in town for exploring on your own or return straightaway to the pier via complimentary shuttle.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat, sturdy walking or athletic shoes; regular street shoes are not suitable.
• Bring a hat, a bottle of water from the ship, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.