Lunch in Picton combines Marlborough region’s famous seafood and wines with breathtaking coastal views. The standout experience is cruising Queen Charlotte Sound, which pairs fresh-caught fish with panoramic water vistas. For wine enthusiasts, guided winery tours showcase the region’s world-class Sauvignon Blanc, complete with intimate lunches at family-owned estates. Active travelers will love kayak excursions with packed gourmet picnics, while those seeking comfort can enjoy waterfront dining at Punga Cove resort. Our favorite spots blend great food with unforgettable New Zealand scenery. Check out these top lunch experiences in Picton.
Key Points
- The Shore Excursion Wine Tour offers a personalized winery lunch experience in Marlborough’s scenic wine region, starting from Picton.
- The Queen Charlotte Sound Scenic Cruise provides a 6.5-hour sightseeing trip with a local seafood lunch.
- The Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort, while offering scenic views, has received mixed reviews regarding the quality of the lunch.
- The Queen Charlotte Sound Cruise With Lunch features a 1-course meal at a 3-star lodge with stunning vistas, though some guests reported issues with weather and boat conditions.
- The Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge offers a journey through the Marlborough Sounds with a seasonal menu or BBQ buffet lunch option.
Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton
Exploring the picturesque Marlborough wine region, this shore excursion from Picton showcases the area’s premier wineries and offers a delectable lunch.
Starting at the Picton i-SITE, travelers can take a short shuttle or walk to the meeting point. The tour visits multiple wineries, providing wine tastings and insights from knowledgeable guides.
A highlight is the lunch at the scenic St Clair winery. Limited to just 10 travelers, this intimate experience ensures personalized attention.
With clear directions, flexible cancellation policies, and glowing reviews, this tour is an excellent way to savor the flavors of Picton’s vibrant wine country.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Wine Tour Including Lunch From Picton Review
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Queen Charlotte Sound: Scenic Cruise & Lunch
Visitors can embark on a scenic cruise through the serene Queen Charlotte Sound, savoring a delectable lunch along the way.
The Queen Charlotte Sound Cruise with Lunch offers a 6.5-hour experience, providing stunning vistas of the picturesque waterways and an opportunity to indulge in local seafood.
Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8 reviews, this tour allows travelers to explore the natural wonders of the region while enjoying a satisfying meal.
Priced at $79.17, this excursion offers a well-rounded and immersive experience for those seeking to combine sightseeing and dining in Picton.
Read our full review: Queen Charlotte Sound: Scenic Cruise & Lunch Review
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Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort
What does the Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort entail? The experience includes a scenic cruise and lunch service, available through the Viator platform. The product code is 58484P8, and it’s located at Punga Cove Resort.
While the overall rating is 2.0 based on 1 review, the customer highlighted difficulties with steep hill climbing and criticized the lunch quality, mainly consisting of pizza.
Viator’s customer support is accessible through their Help Centre, addressing booking inquiries and issues. The experience is governed by Viator’s terms and conditions, emphasizing safety guidelines for participants.
Read our full review: Day Cruise & Lunch at Punga Cove Resort Review
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Queen Charlotte Sound Cruise With Lunch
Traversing the pristine waters of the Queen Charlotte Sound, this scenic cruise whisks visitors away on a captivating journey.
Priced from Kč 1,882 per person, the 6.5-hour experience includes a delightful lunch at a 3-star lodge with stunning views. Guests can choose to dine on the veranda, lawn, or in the cozy historic lodge, savoring a delicious 1-course meal from the all-day casual sharing menu.
While the cruise generally receives positive feedback for its fabulous food, wine, and great service, some guests have reported unpleasant experiences due to weather conditions and boat issues.
The opportunity to witness the local marine wildlife during this scenic Marlborough Sounds adventure remains a highlight.
Read our full review: Queen Charlotte Sound Cruise With Lunch Review
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Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge
The Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge takes visitors on a captivating journey through the Marlborough Sounds.
Travelers can expect confirmation upon booking and should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour has a maximum of 15 travelers.
The captain serves as the guide and speaks English, and lunch is ordered from a seasonal menu, with a BBQ buffet sometimes offered.
While travel time is included, those with serious medical conditions like heart problems won’t be allowed to participate.
Cancellation policies allow full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance, but no refunds after.
Read our full review: Cruise and Lunch at Furneaux Lodge Review
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Marlborough Sounds: Full-Day Guided Kayak Tour With Lunch
Adventurous travelers can enjoy the stunning Marlborough Sounds through a full-day guided kayak tour.
This 7-hour excursion provides the perfect opportunity to explore the breathtaking waterways and lush native forests. Paddlers will glide through the tranquil bays and inlets, spotting diverse wildlife along the way.
The tour includes a delicious lunch, ensuring guests can refuel and recharge amid the picturesque surroundings.
With a 4.7-star rating from 42 reviews and a price of $161.28 per person, this guided kayak adventure offers an unforgettable way to experience the natural beauty of the Marlborough Sounds.
Read our full review: Marlborough Sounds: Full-Day Guided Kayak Tour With Lunch Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Options Available?
Vegetarian and vegan lunch options are widely available in Picton. Many local restaurants offer diverse plant-based dishes, catering to those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Visitors can easily find satisfying meatless meals during their lunch break.
How Much Time Is Allocated for the Lunch Experience?
Most lunch experiences allocate between 60-90 minutes for diners to enjoy their meal. This allows sufficient time to order, savor each course, and not feel rushed. Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate various dietary preferences.
Is the Lunch Menu Curated or a Set Menu?
The lunch menu is typically a curated selection, not a set menu. This allows the restaurant to showcase its best seasonal offerings and cater to guests’ individual preferences. The flexibility of a curated menu enhances the overall dining experience.
Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated on the Tour?
Most tour providers can accommodate dietary requirements, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Guests should communicate their needs when booking to ensure the tour can cater to their preferences.
Is the Lunch Experience Included in the Tour Price?
The lunch experience is typically included in the tour price. Tour operators generally accommodate dietary requirements, but it’s best to confirm this with the specific tour provider before booking.
The Sum Up
Picton offers a range of lunch experiences that allow visitors to explore the stunning Marlborough Sounds. From scenic cruises to guided kayak tours, these excursions provide the opportunity to savor local cuisine while taking in the area’s natural beauty. Whether seeking a relaxing afternoon or an adventure-filled day, Picton’s lunch experiences cater to a variety of interests and preferences.