Close
Shipping schedules Marinas

Sail through pristine waterways as you arrive in the spectacular Marlborough Sounds – one of the world’s most breathtaking cruise destinations. Wake up to awe-inspiring scenery as your vessel berths in Picton, where the natural beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound surrounds you.

Picton is where authentic small-town New Zealand meets rich culture and natural wonder. Located just minutes from the berth, the town’s vibrant foreshore is lined with boutique cafés, waterfront dining, artisan galleries, and welcoming local markets and retailers. From here, guests can explore our region their way – on foot or by boat, bike, car, helicopter or plane – unlocking a world of experiences across Marlborough’s diverse landscapes.

Port Marlborough’s purpose-built infrastructure supports vessels of all sizes – including Oasis Class ships – with two cruise berths available:

  • Waimahara Wharf, designed for large international vessels, offers berthage up to 350m with a 13.5m draft, just minutes by shuttle to the town centre and connections

  • Waitohi Wharf, ideal for mid-sized and boutique ships, offers a 240m berth in a central town-side location

Marlborough is home to New Zealand’s largest and globally awarded wine-producing region and has a proud maritime heritage shaped by both Māori and European voyagers. Cruise visitors can venture into island bird sanctuaries, relax in secluded bays, enjoy luxury lodge retreats, or take on parts of the world-renowned Queen Charlotte Track.

From immersive shore excursions to world-class natural beauty, Port Marlborough offers cruise passengers an unforgettable port of call – and a seamless connection to the very best of Aotearoa.

Strategic Location

Picton sits at the northern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, making it a convenient and attractive call for South Pacific cruise itineraries.

With overnight cruising connections to Wellington and Christchurch, and short transit times from other major ports, Picton enables efficient itinerary planning with high guest satisfaction ratings.

Cruise Facilities

Port Marlborough offers two primary cruise berths, purpose-built and maintained to support vessels of all sizes, including the largest cruise ships visiting New Zealand.

Waimahara Wharf
Our deepwater cruise berth, suitable for up to Oasis Class vessels, offers high-capacity infrastructure and efficient operations:

  • Wharf Length: 200 m | Wharf Width: 29 m | Height: 4.5 m above MLWS
  • Berth Pocket: 380m x 70m x 11.5m / 380m x 40m x 15.0m
  • Max Draft: 13.5 m | Max LOA: 350 m (assessment required >200 m)

Waitohi Wharf
Ideal for mid-size vessels and boutique cruise ships, Waitohi Wharf offers central access to Picton township:

  • Wharf Length: 240 m | Wharf Width: 20 mBerth Pocket: 245m x 50m x 9.0m
  • Max Draft: 8.0–10.0 m (varies by berth position)
  • Max LOA: 245 m (assessment required >200 m)
  • Fendering and Bollards: 30–100t SWL bollards at approx. 10 m spacing

Towage Support

Port Marlborough operates three capable harbour tugs to support safe and efficient cruise operations:

  • Kaiana – 50t bollard pull Damen Azimuth Stern Drive tug
  • Maungatea – 28t azimuth tractor tug
  • Monowai – 28t Voith Schneider tractor tug
  • A new Damen tug is on order and due to enter service in 2026.

Each vessel is equipped for flexible, high-capacity towage, supporting safe berthing for vessels of all classes.

Why Choose Port Marlborough?

Proven infrastructure for large vessel operations
Close proximity to town, amenities, and shore excursions
Dedicated cruise team and streamlined port services

Breathtaking scenic sailing route through the Marlborough Sounds – a highlight for every South Pacific itinerary.

Let us help you to make Picton the most memorable stop on your New Zealand cruise itinerary.  For enquiries, cruise logistics, or port agent support, contact our Cruise Operations Team

Ryan Lock, GM Port and Marine ryan.lock@pmnz.co.nz