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Sound · Picton, Marlborough
Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui
Arm of sea of the Marlborough Sounds that links Picton to Cook Strait, through which ferries from Wellington pass. Bays covered in forest, islands and Meretoto (Ship Cove), the cove where James Cook anchored on his three voyages.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui
Queen Charlotte Sound, also known by the Māori name Tōtaranui, is one of the arms of sea that make up the Marlborough Sounds: valleys flooded by the sea that today form a maze of coves, peninsulas and islands. Picton sits at its head, and ferries from Wellington travel much of the sound after entering via the Tory Channel.
At the northern extreme, near the exit to Cook Strait, is Meretoto, Ship Cove. It was the preferred anchorage of navigator James Cook, who sheltered there on all three of his Pacific voyages; a monument commemorates those visits. Opposite, Motuara Island is a predator-free reserve where people land to see native birds that have disappeared from much of the mainland.
The best way to explore the sound is by boat. From Picton there are several-hour tours, boats delivering mail to isolated houses, and transport for the Queen Charlotte Track, which runs along the ridges above the water. Kayak rentals are also available in the bays closest to town. Dolphins often appear in the sound, but sightings cannot be guaranteed.
By car, the Queen Charlotte Drive leaves Picton to the west and follows the coves to Havelock, with viewpoints along the way. It is a route of about 35 km with many bends, an alternative to the main highway for those heading to Nelson.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 4 hours on a boat tour; a full day when combining a boat and a section of the track.
Best time
From December to March, with more boat departures and long days. Mornings tend to have calmer water. In winter there are fewer departures; book ahead.
How to get there
Boats depart from the marina and Picton wharf in the town centre. Queen Charlotte Drive begins on the west side of Picton, heading to Havelock.
Tip
To see Meretoto and Motuara Island, choose a tour that stops at both. On Motuara Island follow biosecurity instructions: check you are not carrying seeds or soil on your clothing or in your backpack.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Queen Charlotte Sound / Tōtaranui
How to take a boat trip on Queen Charlotte Sound?
Several-hour boat trips depart from Picton, some stopping at Meretoto (Ship Cove) and Motuara Island. There are also boats that deliver mail to isolated houses and carry passengers. Book in advance in summer.
What is Ship Cove (Meretoto)?
It is the cove at the northern end of Queen Charlotte Sound where the navigator James Cook anchored on his three Pacific voyages in the 18th century. There is a monument and it is the start of the Queen Charlotte Track. It is only reached by boat.
Can you see dolphins in Queen Charlotte Sound?
Dolphins commonly appear in the inlet, even near sightseeing boats, but sightings cannot be guaranteed. Dedicated dolphin-watching trips depart from Picton.