Making port for a day in Picton? Unsure how to see the best of the region? Hop On one of our commercial or private tours!
Hop on and discover the wonders of Marlborough – Museums, Activities, Breweries, Shopping, Restaurants and of course lots and lots of Wineries. With over 25 stops available – Hop Off at whichever Stop you’d like best to suit your needs.
If you are travelling on a smaller cruise ship, please BOOK onto our regular Marlborough Tour. Because your ships departure time might not line up with the end of the tour, we offer a shuttle from Blenheim back to Picton in relation to your ship’s schedule ($20pp please select the option when booking). Click here for the regular Marlborough tour map and timetable.
Email: enquiries@hoponhopoffwinetours.com
Duration: 5-8 Hours (approx.)
Location: Picton
Times: This tour is decided by you, from 5 hrs – 8 hrs approx. – you decide!
Please be aware that this tour is only available on days Cruise Ships come into Port!
Click here for the Map and Timetable
Pick Up: Picton i-SITE: Tourist information centre (our office and buses are just across the road). Your cruise courtesy shuttle bus will drop you at the iSite.
Cruise-ship Yealands and Marlborough Wine Tour
Hop on Hop off wine tours is now offering a new experience at one of the most unique wineries in the world. Join us on the Seaview Vineyard tour, the home of Yealands Wines and enjoy some of New Zealand’s finest, award winning, and flavourful wines while at the lookout point where you can relish in a cliff top view looking out over the Marlborough Sounds.
Once you have finished the Yealands tour, you have the choice to finish up your day by departing the bus at I site and carry on back to picton or you are welcome to continue on the hop on hop off run and visit more fabulous wineries.
Cruise FAQS
Do I need to pre book a tour with Hop on Hop off?
We always recommend to pre book any of our tours to avoid disappointment. This is especially true when it comes to cruise ship dates as we are always in demand and can only host so many clients in one day.
What’s included in the tour?
Included in your ticket you will receive:
- A driver/guide for the day, this driver has expert knowledge about the region and can offer you advice on where to go according to your tastes in addition to some helpful local information!
- Also included in the ticket is a handy map and bus timetable (paper or downloadable)
- Transport to over 19 of Marlborough’s best wineries/breweries and points of interest.
How many others will be on the tour?
Our buses can hold up to 20 clients. We advise no more than 8 hop off at any one stop in order to provide the most enjoyable and unique experience for everyone.
Do I need to pre book my stops?
Yes, we recommend you pre book lunch in order to avoid disappointment on the day. We also recommend you pre book any wine tastings. You can book times in accordance with our map and timetable. As a rule of thumb leave 3 ‘stops’ for lunch and 2 ‘stops’ for a tasting. You should not need to book attractions such as Omaka Aviation, Classic Cars and Makana Confectionary. There should also be no need to pre book a brewery, cafe or a tavern.
Where is the pick up location?
The pick up spot could not be any easier! Once you dock in Picton, your cruise courtesy shuttle bus will transfer you to the Picton iSite. Our office and buses are just across the road (a 1 minute walk).
What if I get lost?
You can call us on +64 3 573 5508 or 0800 6937 2273. One of our friendly HoHo team members will be able to assist you. We also take every client’s contact details so we can call you if needed.
What’s the HoHo wristband?
When you board the bus you will receive your HoHo wristband to replace your ticket. This is how we know you have purchased a ticket and can help us identify you throughout the day. This is also how you gain access to a collection of unique HoHo specials throughout the day.
How do I know where to Hop off?
As we stop at over 25 different locations throughout the Marlborough region we would recommend some forward planning. Tastings and lunch bookings fees are not included in your bus ticket. We therefore recommend having a look at some of the local vineyards/breweries and stops prior, see what takes your fancy and booking ahead as much as possible. You can pencil in where you’d like to go in our easy to read, timesaving bus timetable. Our timetable has been carefully planned in order to minimise drive times between locations and to maximise the amount of time you may spend in each vineyard.
What if I miss the bus?
Not to worry – check your timetable and catch the next one. Our buses run every 30 mins. Please call +64 3 573 or 0800 6937 2273.
Can I purchase wine?
Absolutely! Most vineyards waiver their tasting fee should you purchase a bottle of wine. You can also leave your purchases with our HoHo drivers rather than carry them with you in other vineyards.
Will I be back to the dock in time?
Yes! We plan our cruise ship dates around your time of departure. Just make sure you hop back on the bus when you’d like to return.
What should I bring on the day?
- Your best self and your taste buds!
- A note of your intended stops and any reservation details
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and water (please drink lots of water on the day)
- Passport for ID* if under 25 years of age
Do you offer private tours?
We certainly do! Get in touch today for more information. Prices start from $2550 (not including lunch and tastings).
What if I have further questions or would like to book on the tour?
You can contact us at enquiries@hoponhopoffwinetours.com or call +64 3 573 5508. One of our friendly HoHo staff will be happy to help.
