This place is gat of the sun is shining. Take a boat tour to get the real experience. We did e mail boat run with beachcomber which is a very good choice.
As we did two years ago we travelled both Islands and with a campervan the boat is the only way to get from one to the other. We stayed in Picton carpark, sounds strange, but there are 10 allocated spots for self contained vehicles after 6pm. It is just so handy for the ferry. The trip across these magnificent waters is 3 hours and if you are lucky you may see dolphins. Most of the journey is fairly calm with only a short bit in the middle not surrounded by land where it can get a bit rougher. (I love sailing so no problem for me) The scenic view is just so amazing and very soothing. You can stay at Wellington Harbour in a campervan only park for $50. Another part of the sounds that is great is Mahau sound, on the way to Picton. A free site by the waters available for 6 only self contained vans, just beautiful.
we have visited the Sounds several times and iti is a most beautiful place on especially on a sunny day. This time we sailed through on the ferry to Wellington. Spectacular. Didn't see any dolphins this time sadly
We travelled on the sound numerous times and stayed for 3 nights. The weather helped hardly a cloud in the sky.
Had a fabulous cruise through the Sounds. Stunning views, bays and walks. We dropped anchor in different bays each night and enjoyed amazing sunrises.
We stayed with friends on an island in the sounds. No signal for phone or Internet but still worth it. The scenery is amazing. The water is crystal clear and swimming most enjoyable even with temps below 20*.
I don't know what else to say - it's a must see. Spectacular views. I only wish we had tried sailing - I was quite envious of all the boats on the sounds.
Mail cruise. Great commentary. Great fun seeing the locals and their dogs getting their doggie treat.
Sailed into Picton on the Radiance of the Seas, spent a lot of time on deck taking in the very beautiful vista's available. Very nice views all around the ship. Very peaceful and while we were told to look for Dolphins sadly none appeared on our visit. But, it was just so nice and serene on a spectacularly sunny day. The water looked so tempting that I wanted to jump in.... all in all a lovely place to visit
To get a good view you need to travel on the cook straight ferry and stay outside on the deck as you enter the sounds