Waikawa Marina, Picton

Welcome to Waikawa Marina, one of the crown jewels of the Marlborough Sounds, New Zealand. A bustling hub for recreational and commercial boating, Waikawa Marina offers an inviting mix of tranquillity, adventure, top-tier facilities, and friendly community spirit. Being one of the largest marinas in New Zealand, Waikawa Marina is an integral part of the regional maritime ecosystem and is a perfect base for exploring the stunning Marlborough Sounds.

Location

Situated in the town of Picton, at the head of the picturesque Queen Charlotte Sound, Waikawa Marina is strategically located near the heart of New Zealand’s South Island. The Marina boasts spectacular views and provides immediate access to the diverse waterways of the Marlborough Sounds. Its prime location makes it an ideal starting point for journeys along the coast or further afield.

Approach to the Waikawa Marina

Navigating to Waikawa Marina is a straightforward and scenic journey. From the open sea, follow the well-charted Queen Charlotte Sound towards Picton. The entrance to Waikawa Bay is just to the east of Picton Harbour. As you enter the bay, you will see the marina on the starboard side. Navigation aids including buoys and beacons are present throughout the route to guide vessels safely. Boaters are advised to monitor their charts and heed local maritime regulations.

Specifications of the Marina

Waikawa Marina is an expansive facility, with over 600 berths that can accommodate vessels of varying sizes. It has a combination of floating and pile berths, catering for vessels from 8 metres to 30 metres in length. The berths are well-fitted with water supply, electricity (both single and three-phase), and free Wi-Fi. Fuel (both diesel and petrol) is available at the fuel jetty.

Infrastructure, Services, and Distinctive Features

Waikawa Marina is more than just a place to moor your boat; it is a comprehensive maritime hub equipped with a vast array of services. The Marina offers a range of infrastructure including boat repair and maintenance facilities, a haul-out yard, travel lift, hardstand area, and a slipway. A broad selection of marine trades operates onsite, providing services from engineering and painting to rigging and electronics.

One of the marina’s distinctive features is its commitment to sustainability, with environmental initiatives like recycling stations and an oil disposal facility. Other facilities include modern ablution blocks, laundry services, and a dedicated visitor berth area for transient yachts.

Amenities in the Marina and Nearby

Waikawa Marina has a vibrant on-site community, complete with a café, restaurant, and bar. Within walking distance, you will find convenience stores for provisioning, a children’s playground, and picnic areas. A short drive away is the town of Picton, offering a wider range of services including supermarkets, retail stores, restaurants, and accommodation options.

Events in Marina

Waikawa Marina is home to the Waikawa Boating Club, which organizes a variety of events throughout the year. These include club racing, cruising events, fishing competitions, and social activities. The marina also hosts various maritime training courses and safety workshops.

How to Get There

Reaching Waikawa Marina is convenient by air, road, or sea. Picton is well connected by road to the rest of the South Island, with State Highway 1 passing through the town. Those travelling by air can fly into Wellington and take the ferry across the Cook Strait to Picton. The ferry terminals are a mere 10-minute drive from the marina. For the sea route, Picton is a regular stop for coastal and international cruise ships.

Attractions Nearby

The region around Waikawa Marina is full of natural and cultural attractions. You can explore the stunning Marlborough Sounds, visit the Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre, or indulge in wine tasting at the Marlborough vineyards. The scenic Queen Charlotte Track, offering spectacular vistas of the Sounds, is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts.

What are the operating hours of Waikawa Marina?

The Marina office is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM during weekends and public holidays.

What kind of vessels can be accommodated at Waikawa Marina?

Waikawa Marina can accommodate a wide range of vessels, including sailing yachts, motorboats, and catamarans. It has berths ranging in sizes to accommodate various boat lengths.

What amenities are available on the berths at Waikawa Marina?

Each berth typically comes with fresh water, electricity, and Wi-Fi access. The marina also provides shower and laundry facilities for berth holders.

What repair and maintenance facilities does Waikawa Marina offer?

The Marina offers a range of maintenance and repair services including a boatyard with haul-out facilities, marine engineers, electricians and boat chandlers.

What are some nearby attractions or places of interest around Waikawa Marina?

Nearby attractions include the Queen Charlotte Track, local vineyards, the Marlborough Sounds, and the Picton town center.

What are the transportation options to reach Waikawa Marina?

The Marina is easily accessible by road, with Picton's Interislander ferry terminal just a few kilometers away. The closest airport is in Blenheim, approximately a 30-minute drive away.

Does Waikawa Marina have any environmental or sustainability initiatives?

Many marinas are involved in sustainability initiatives, such as recycling programs, waste management, and efforts to protect local marine life. The specifics would need to be confirmed with Waikawa Marina.