Motuara Island bird sanctuary attracts bird lovers from all over the world. All introduced pests were removed in the early 1990's and the island is now home to a variety of native species having struggled to survive, or died out on the mainland. These include saddleback (tieke), NZ robin (toutouwai), bellbird (korimako), tui, grey warbler (riroriro), NZ pigeon (kereru), silver eye (tauhou), fantail (piwakawaka), the endangered South Island Saddleback, the very rare king shag, Maud Island frog and the Marlborough green gecko. Follow the track which winds up to the highest point of the island and there awaits you fantastic views across to Ship Cove. There is a spectacular view to the North Island from the Cook Straight lookout.

From October to April, our 8am departure will allow one and a half hours ashore on Motuara Island. With a pickup time of 10.30am this will enable you to have the choice of continuing your cruise back to Picton which includes a 15 minute stop at Ship Cover or choose to day walk or mountain bike on the Queen Charlotte Track.

On arrival, from May to September, at this magnificent island you will disembark for a 30 minute chorus of song from the local inhabitants. Life the lid on one of many wooden nestling boxes along the track and a sleepy Little Blue Penguin may just glance up to see who is watching over them.

Motuara Island is a predator free island administered by the Department of Conservation.

Tour highlights (Allow approximately 3 hrs)

• Viewing the resident wildlife and marine mammals such as New Zealand Fur Seals and visiting Dolphins.
• Learn the history of the Queen Charlotte Sound from your friendly skipper.
• Sit back and relax with complimentary tea & coffee.

Prices and Important information

Adults - $73.00 Child - $35.00 (5 to 14 years) Infant - Free (up to 4 years) The Bird Watchers Bonus is additional $5.00 per person From 1st October to 30th April, our 8am departure will allow one and a half hours ashore on Motuara Island. With a pickup time of 10.30am this will enable you to have the choice of continuing your cruise back to Picton which includes a 15 minute stop ashore at Ship Cove or choose to day walk or mountain bike the Queen Charlotte Track. From 1st May to 30th September our 9.30am departure will allow thirty minutes ashore on Motuara Island. Prices effective from October 1, 2009 to September 30, 2010. PLEASE NOTE: While you are ashore, you are responsible for your own health and safety.