Unseen Queen Charlotte Sound

Discover the tranquil waterways, wildlife and rich history of New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds on an unforgettable, intimate 5-day Kiwi walking adventure exploring Queen Charlotte Sound aboard our luxurious 18-guest expedition yacht Heritage Explorer. Specially designed for more active travellers looking to explore these remote waterways, coves and coastlines only accessible by sea, this voyage gives walking and hiking enthusiasts the opportunity to trek sections of the iconic Queen Charlotte Walkway, discover the rich whaling history of Perano, and experience thrilling island explorations of renowned conservation success stories Motuara and Blumine Islands, the latter also featuring WWII military ruins.

In addition to excellent opportunities to explore one of New Zealand’s wildest, most remote and beautiful destinations by foot, your adventure includes daily Zodiac cruises, opportunities to explore by kayak and, for avid fishers, the chance to try your luck fishing. 

Formed by a system of submerged valleys carved out following the last ice age around 10,000 years ago, the scenic playground of Marlborough Sounds encompasses some 1,500-kilometres of forested coastline, sheltered inlets and bays awaiting exploration, many only accessible by sea. The union of three main bodies of water - Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds - Marlborough Sounds has more than 50 Department of Conservation managed reserves including several predator-free wildlife sanctuaries.

Join us as we discover the breath-taking beauty of Queen Charlotte Sound’s winding cobalt waterways, iconic landscapes, lush native forests, wildlife and remote coastlines rich in early New Zealand history and the location of some of the country’s most important conservation efforts.