Scenic water taxi access from Picton to a wildlife refuge with an underwater observatory, art trails, waterpark and paddling activities.
Short cruises, cruise-ship transfers, guided tours, waterpark days, dining and tailored relaxation packages in the Marlborough Sounds.
boat-chartersboat-charters · Picton
Cruise 20 minutes from Picton into the Marlborough Sounds, step into New Zealand’s only underwater observatory, and spend a few hours wandering native bush, sculptures, and conservation projects. This half-day trip pairs marine viewing with hands-on restoration work—ideal for curious travelers and families.
Lochmara Lodge is a wildlife refuge and visitor destination in the Marlborough Sounds, close to Picton. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the lodge operates scenic water taxi transfers and day experiences that combine wildlife encounters, conservation projects, outdoor art, and water-based activities. Visitors arrive by boat for short cruises or cruise-ship transfers, then explore native bush trails, view outdoor sculptures, visit New Zealand’s only underwater observatory, and take part in daily animal feedings.
The lodge's program of experiences includes self-guided and guided options for cruise-ship passengers, Short Cruise visits, water‑park days, and tailored packages such as Time for Two with private bathhouse access, waterfront dining, and complimentary kayak or paddleboard hire. Hikers can combine the Queen Charlotte Track with a packed lunch and return to Lochmara for paddling and wildlife viewing. Early-morning options and evening dinners are available for visitors seeking brief escapes or relaxed waterfront meals.
Lochmara keeps activities nature-focused, with on-site conservation efforts and interpretive trails that highlight local flora and fauna. Water transfers and outdoor facilities enable safe access to the reserve while preserving the natural setting. The combination of wildlife refuge, art trails, water activities, and on-site conservation makes Lochmara a trusted destination for travelers wanting authentic Marlborough Sounds experiences.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Gateway to the Marlborough Sounds
Boat transfers from Picton
Short cruises to full-day trips
Daily animal feedings and trails
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Lochmara Lodge listing.
Lochmara Lodge offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Book scenic water taxi transfers, guided or self-guided tours, waterpark days, or waterfront dinners — secure a spot for a Marlborough Sounds escape.
boat-chartersboat-charters · Picton
Board a short water transfer from Picton to Lochmara Lodge for an evening of free kayaking, short bush walks, and a waterfront dinner in the Marlborough Sounds. Perfect for a relaxed celebration or a low-key night on the water—book early, as departures require a minimum of four.
boat-chartersboat-charters · Picton
Step off your cruise and into the Marlborough Sounds with a self-guided day at Lochmara. A short water taxi from Picton, this flexible shore excursion mixes native-bush trails, outdoor sculpture and conservation projects with sheltered waterfront downtime.
boat-chartersboat-charters · Picton
Short on time but craving the Marlborough Sounds? Early Bird delivers a compact morning of water taxi crossings, wildlife sightings, short nature trails, and complimentary kayaking from Lochmara—perfect for travelers based in Picton.
land-adventuresland-adventures · Picton
Cycle the Queen Charlotte Track with a point‑to‑point water taxi: start or finish at Lochmara, ride through native beech forest and coastal ridgelines, and return to Picton by boat. A flexible, scenic six‑hour day ride ideal for e‑bikes and mixed groups.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Spend a day at Lochmara’s 11-acre wildlife refuge with return water transfers from Picton, complimentary kayak and paddleboard hire, art and nature trails, and daily animal-feeding talks. Perfect for a flexible six- or eight-hour introduction to the Queen Charlotte Track area.
boat-chartersboat-charters · Picton
Short on time but craving the Marlborough Sounds? This one-hour Lochmara water taxi from Picton includes a 20-minute shore stop for quick wildlife viewing, shoreline photos, and a brisk taste of coastal New Zealand. Ideal for ferry travelers or anyone with a tight schedule.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Escape to the Marlborough Sounds with a relaxed day trip from Picton: water transfer, lunch at Lochmara Café, and optional kayaking, paddleboarding, and a wildlife feeding tour. Perfect for families, photographers, and nature lovers seeking an easy coastal adventure.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Step ashore at Lochmara in Picton and peer beneath the waves without getting wet. This guided Underwater Observatory tour pairs shore walks with a submerged viewing room to reveal the Marlborough Sounds’ kelp forests, pāua and coastal birdlife.
land-adventuresland-adventures · Picton
Take a full-day walk on the Queen Charlotte Track from Picton, then return to Lochmara for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. Perfect for hikers who want coastal panoramas and a water-based cooldown.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Escape to the Marlborough Sounds for a private bathhouse soak, waterfront lunch and free kayak hire. Time for Two is an unrushed, seaside day designed for reconnecting and relaxing.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Spend a day at Lochmara’s 11-acre coastal property with return water transfers from Picton, free kayak or paddleboard hire, art trails, and daily animal feedings. Perfect for families and independent travelers who want a flexible, activity-rich introduction to the Marlborough Sounds.
water-activitieswater-activities · Picton
Spend a full day at Lochmara Wildlife Refuge from Picton—hike sculpture-lined trails, spot seals and birds, then cap it with an inflatable waterpark session in Queen Charlotte Sound. A family-friendly mix of natural history, art and high-energy play.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.