Pelorus Sound Mail Run Cruise from Havelock
Highlights & inclusions
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May 2026
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Highlighted reviews
The boat on Friday was pretty much empty which meant we had an awesome intimate experience with Ross and the crew. We were told we were going to be doing 175km on the Sounds . Cooler but sunny weather meant that as I'd arrived on motorcycle with jackets etc still on topdeck outside for me was the perfect place to view the journey and see the wildlife- birds , seals, 3 different dolphins species. We met dogs n pigs on our deliveries and were treated to local knowledge commentary all the way. I certainly would recommend to anyone- i live in Nelson and learnt a lot from the skipper. Try it you'll love it.
We had a wonderful day in spite of the weather. The crew were lovely, really friendly. It’s a really spectacular coast and we were given lots of information. We thought we had to take a packed lunch, but you can order a lunch from the hotel before leaving ( this was the Monday trip, I’m not sure that this is possible on all days as they do different routes.) Those of us with packed lunches went to the farm. We stayed in the barn as it was raining but the owners wife was lovely and she told us all about the farm and living on the sound. There was free tea and coffee on the boat which was great. If we come again I’d do one of the other days so see different parts of the sound. We really enjoyed it.
What you can expect
Join the Pelorus Sound ‘sea postie’ on a full day Marlborough Sounds cruise onboard the Pelorus Mail Boat from Havelock. Delivering post since 1918, the Pelorus Mail Boat is a historic experience combining scenery, wildlife and local stories on a 5-6 hour cruise. Discover remote jetties and beaches as you cruise the Pelorus Sound mail boat’s route, with the chance to greet locals and furry friends along the way.
Pelorus Sound and Kenepuru Sound is the largest and most untouched part of the Marlborough Sounds in New Zealand’s South Island. Departing from Havelock Marlborough, the Pelorus mail run begins just a 30 minute drive from Blenheim or 1 hour from Nelson. After checking in at the Havelock Marina, embark on the Pelorus Mail Boat cruise to deliver mail, parcels and supplies to residents who live far off the beaten track.
Throughout the Pelorus Mail Boat cruise, the local crew offer a fascinating commentary on the history of the Marlborough Sounds and life in this far-flung area of New Zealand. Enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee onboard, while admiring the scenery and keeping an eye out for marine wildlife such as dolphins, penguins, seals and stingrays. At midday, the Pelorus Mail Boat makes a stop for lunch, so be sure to bring your own picnic to tuck into by a secluded bay or remote farm. Depending on the day’s delivery route, you may also have the chance to go on a beautiful bush walk, cruise past a king shag colony or visit a mussel farm.
Location
What you need to know
- 5-6 hour Pelorus mail run
- Expert commentary from local crew
- Complimentary tea & coffee onboard
- Allow 6 hours
- 10:00am
- Departs from Havelock Marina - Pier B
- Operates Friday all year
- Child rates apply (5-15yrs)
- Infants (0-4yrs) travel free of charge
- Lunch is not included in this tour, please bring your own picnic lunch
- Please bring a packed lunch, sunscreen, hat, camera, a warm later & swimwear
- There are cafes, a bakery & supermarket in Havelock if you need to purchase picnic supplies beforehand
- Minimum numbers required for tour to go ahead
- Paid car park available when you arrive at Havelock Marina
- Friday route (Outer Sounds): Inner Pelorus Sound, Pohuenui Island, Whakatahuri, Forsyth Island, Port Ligar, Bulwer, Homewood, Waitata Bay and Hopewell Lodge
Recent reviews
The boat on Friday was pretty much empty which meant we had an awesome intimate experience with Ross and the crew. We were told we were going to be doing 175km on the Sounds . Cooler but sunny weather meant that as I'd arrived on motorcycle with jackets etc still on topdeck outside for me was the perfect place to view the journey and see the wildlife- birds , seals, 3 different dolphins species. We met dogs n pigs on our deliveries and were treated to local knowledge commentary all the way. I certainly would recommend to anyone- i live in Nelson and learnt a lot from the skipper. Try it you'll love it.
We had a wonderful day in spite of the weather. The crew were lovely, really friendly. It’s a really spectacular coast and we were given lots of information. We thought we had to take a packed lunch, but you can order a lunch from the hotel before leaving ( this was the Monday trip, I’m not sure that this is possible on all days as they do different routes.) Those of us with packed lunches went to the farm. We stayed in the barn as it was raining but the owners wife was lovely and she told us all about the farm and living on the sound. There was free tea and coffee on the boat which was great. If we come again I’d do one of the other days so see different parts of the sound. We really enjoyed it.
Very enjoyable trip. Lots of dolphins.
Need help?
- Email us at plan@everythingnewzealand.com
- Product ID: 25249
- This experience is supplied by Marlborough Tour Company