Marlborough, New Zealand, is a top destination for wine lovers. Known worldwide for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, this region offers much more than just great wine—spectacular scenery, fresh seafood, and boutique breweries also make Marlborough a rich travel experience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed day sampling award-winning wines or a full immersion into Marlborough’s culinary scene, the options are plentiful.
Our list features a variety of tours, from comprehensive full-day winery visits to specialized craft beer and spirits adventures. For example, the Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour (see more) offers a relaxed six-hour journey through Marlborough’s finest vineyards, perfect for those wanting a taste of top-tier wines paired with local scenery. Meanwhile, the Marlborough: Full-Day Wine and Seafood Tour with Cruise (see more) combines wine with a scenic cruise, making it ideal for travelers wanting variety. If you’re into craft beers and spirits, the Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour (see more) delivers a mix of local brews and spirits for a more eclectic tasting experience.
Below, we break down each tour, highlighting what makes them stand out so you can choose the perfect fit.
1. Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour
At number 1, the Marlborough Full Day Wine Tour is a top-rated experience with a perfect 5/5 from 111 reviews. For just $129 per person, you get six hours of wine tasting, scenery, and relaxed travel in a luxurious minibus. The tour focuses on sampling award-winning Marlborough wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot, and Aromatics, so it appeals to anyone wanting to taste the best of the region.
What makes this tour special is its balance of quality and value. The knowledgeable guides share insights about Marlborough’s wine-making process and regional history, making each tasting more meaningful. The stop for lunch at a vineyard restaurant adds a relaxed, local flavor, giving you a chance to soak in the vineyard views. Reviewers often mention the friendly guides and elegant transportation as highlights.
This tour is best suited for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a straightforward, high-quality wine experience without extra fuss. It’s an excellent choice if you want to maximize your wine tasting in a short period.
Bottom line: Great value, friendly guides, and top-tier wines make this a perfect introduction to Marlborough’s vineyards.
2. Marlborough: Full-Day Wine and Seafood Tour with Cruise
Coming in at number 2 is the Marlborough: Full-Day Wine and Seafood Tour with Cruise (see more). Priced at $187 per person for seven hours, this tour elevates the typical wine day by adding a scenic cruise through the Marlborough Sounds—an area renowned for its marine life and seafood.
The tour starts with visits to two wineries, where you sample local wines, then transitions into an afternoon cruise that showcases the region’s marine farming industry. Participants enjoy a light lunch aboard the boat and get the chance to taste fresh seafood, making this tour ideal for foodies and nature lovers alike. The cruise offers tranquil views, and the focus on seafood sets it apart from other tours.
Reviews highlight the combination of wine, scenery, and marine experience as a winning trio. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a well-rounded day with variety, especially those interested in both land and sea activities.
Bottom line: This tour’s combination of wine, seafood, and scenic cruising offers a memorable, full-spectrum Marlborough experience.
3. Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour
At number 3, the Marlborough: Craft Beer, Roots Gin, and Whisky & Wine Tour (see more) is a more specialized experience aimed at those with an adventurous palate. For $498 per group (up to 2 people), this 7-hour tour takes you through Marlborough’s burgeoning craft beverage scene.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on local breweries, gin, and whiskey. You’ll start at Moa Brewery with a flight of six craft beers and ciders, then move on to taste three of Roots’ latest gin releases. Later, a visit to the Fancy Cow or Ant Moore Wine provides a chance to sample more craft beers, followed by three whiskies at the Cheese & Cheers Whiskey Tasting Room. The tour also includes a stop at a local shop to pick up regional food and crafts.
This tour is ideal for those interested in Marlborough’s innovative beverage scene rather than just wine. It’s perfect for groups or couples who enjoy tasting different spirits and beers in one day and want a more eclectic experience. The only caveat is the higher price point, but the inclusions justify it for connoisseurs.
Bottom line: For deep beer and spirits fans, this tour offers an engaging, all-in-one tasting adventure.
$498 per group up to 2
4. Marlborough Private Classic Wine Tour
Number 4 is the Marlborough: Private Classic Wine Tour (see more). Priced at $290 per person for six hours, this tour is meant for those seeking a personalized experience visiting Marlborough’s most renowned wineries.
What sets this tour apart is its exclusivity. You’ll visit the pioneering wineries like Cloudy Bay, Saint Clair, Hunters, Wither Hills, and Villa Maria—each a cornerstone of Marlborough’s reputation. The private nature of this tour means it’s tailored to your preferences, with the freedom to spend more time at certain wineries or explore specific interests.
Reviews suggest that the guides are well-versed in Marlborough’s wine history and production, making for a more in-depth visit. This tour is perfect for wine aficionados who prefer a relaxed, private setting and want to focus on Marlborough’s most historic and influential wineries.
Bottom line: A premium, private experience suited for wine lovers who value exclusivity and deep insights.
$290 per person
5. Nelson: Marlborough Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch
Rounding out the list is the Nelson: Marlborough Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch (see more). At 8.5 hours and $275 per person, this tour offers an immersive day starting from Nelson, exploring boutique wineries and hidden local gems.
What makes this experience stand out is its focus on discovering lesser-known wineries, giving you a chance to taste unique wines and learn winemaking secrets from passionate guides. The included vineyard lunch with scenic views makes this perfect for travelers wanting a more intimate, behind-the-scenes look at Marlborough’s wine scene.
The tour delivers a well-rounded day, combining tastings, scenic drives, and local storytelling—ideal for those who want to go beyond the well-trodden wineries. Reviewers appreciate the knowledge of the guides and the chance to sample diverse wines.
Bottom line: Perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a personalized, in-depth exploration of Marlborough’s boutique wineries.
$275 per person
How to Choose the Best Marlborough Wine Tour
When choosing your ideal tour, consider your budget, travel style, and interests. If you want a straightforward, high-value introduction, the Full Day Wine Tour (see more) offers excellent quality at a great price. For a mix of land and sea, the Wine & Seafood Cruise (see more) is perfect. Enthusiasts interested in spirits should check out the Craft Beer, Gin, and Whisky Tour (see more), while those seeking a private, personalized tasting experience will love the Private Classic Wine Tour (see more).
Lastly, if you’re based in Nelson or want to explore boutique wineries, the Marlborough Wine Tour with Tastings and Lunch (see more) offers a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
Marlborough’s wine scene is vast and varied, offering something for all—from casual tasters to dedicated connoisseurs. Whether you prefer a day focused solely on wine, want a seafood cruise, or are interested in craft spirits, the options listed above provide a good starting point. For an authentic, memorable experience, consider your interests carefully, and don’t hesitate to book your spot in advance. Cheers to discovering Marlborough’s best!