Queen Charlotte Sounds Scenic Flight: Water, Wilderness & Remote Beach Landing
Fly over Queen Charlotte, Kenepuru and Pelorus Sounds and step out onto a remote beach. In 75 minutes this scenic flight delivers dramatic geology, marine wildlife and a wilderness landing few other tours include.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for weight checks
Light aircraft require careful weight-and-balance; arrive 20–30 minutes early with your confirmation and any pickup arranged to avoid delays.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Low passes and light turbulence are possible—if you’re prone to airsickness, take medication beforehand and choose a window seat facing forward.
Dress in layers and windproof
Coastal weather changes quickly and the beach landing can be cool and breezy—pack a windproof jacket even in summer.
Carry a small daypack for the beach stop
You’ll have ~20 minutes ashore—bring water, camera and shoes that can handle sand and rocky edges.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Remote beach landing sites in the outer sounds where seals haul out and shells are abundant
- •Small sheltered bays off Kenepuru Sound ideal for private kayaks if you return by water
Wildlife
- •New Zealand fur seal
- •Dusky dolphin
Conservation Note
Many islands are predator-controlled sanctuaries and strict biosecurity is enforced—avoid introducing seeds, insects or animals on boots and gear.
Māori used the Marlborough Sounds for seasonal travel and seafood gathering; later European settlers established small coastal communities and islands that supported fishing and aquaculture.
Photographer's Notes
- • Low pass over Queen Charlotte Sound mouth
- • Descent to the remote beach
- • High sweep above the Kenepuru inlet
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Protects against cool sea breezes on the landing and in the aircraft.
Camera with zoom lensEssential
A 70–200mm or 24–105mm lets you capture islands, wildlife and shoreline detail from the air.
Motion-sickness medication
Helpful for sensitive flyers on low-altitude coastal runs.
Sturdy closed-toe shoesEssential
Needed for the short walk on the remote beach—avoid flimsy sandals.
Common Questions
How long is the flight?
The experience is 75 minutes from Koromiko (Picton Airport), including a 20-minute remote beach landing.
Can children or infants fly?
Yes—infants can travel but must sit on an adult's lap; specify ages when booking.
Is there a luggage limit?
Space is limited in light aircraft; bring a small daypack and confirm baggage rules with the operator before departure.
What happens in bad weather?
Flights are canceled if conditions are unsafe; full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours prior, and the operator may reschedule subject to availability.
Can I be picked up in Picton?
Yes—the operator offers pickups from the Picton i-SITE and can arrange other pickup points—confirm when booking.
Will we see wildlife on every flight?
Wildlife sightings are common (dolphins, seals, seabirds) but not guaranteed—visibility depends on time of year and sea conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
75 minutes
Location
Picton, Marlborough
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required—must be able to step into a small aircraft and walk short distances on uneven beach terrain.
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