Beautiful beaches and native bush surround the sunken valleys of water, and every bay beckons. Some can be reached by road, but the only way to really discover the sounds is by boat. Kayak, sail or motor your way around the Marlborough Sounds and share in our beautiful treasure.

One fifth of New Zealand’s coastline winds its ways through the Marlborough Sounds, where blissful beaches, beautiful bush and pristine waters are everywhere you look. We’ve included a few of our top bays for boating, perfect for an overnight stay or day trip.

The sheltered waters of the Marlborough Sounds are paradise for cruising, with countless bays to drop an anchor, sit back with a glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and watch the evening close over the bush clad hills. Wake to the sound of a rowdy dawn chorus, before setting sail to the next beautiful bay. Pack a picnic and head to Governors Bay, pack your water skis and cruise to Ruakaka Bay, pack your fishing rod and head to D’Urville Island, or pack your tent and cruise to Blumine Island. Better yet, pack them all, and see what the Marlborough Sounds can offer.
Marlborough has three of the best marinas in New Zealand, each with its own unique identity. Picton and Waikawa marinas are gateways to the Queen Charlotte Sound, and Havelock sits at the edge of the magical Kenepuru and Pelorus.