Marlborough Sounds: Pelorus Mail Boat Cruise & Remote Delivery

Summary

Mail boat cruise through Marlborough Sounds delivering essentials

You’ll join real mail deliveries by boat through Marlborough Sounds, stopping at remote jetties where locals greet you with stories or even home-baked treats. With live commentary from your guide and hot drinks onboard, you’ll experience both wild scenery and small-town warmth—plus that odd feeling of being part of something ongoing.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I thought “mail boat” sounded a bit old-fashioned — but standing on the dock in Havelock, watching our guide wave to a farmer waiting for his groceries, I got it. The Pelorus Mail Boat isn’t just a tour; it’s actually how people out here get their stuff. The engine hummed low as we pulled away, and the water smelled briny and cold. There was this odd mix of excitement and calm — maybe because you’re not just passing through, you’re part of someone’s routine for the day.

Our guide, Dave (who seemed to know every dog by name), pointed out tiny houses tucked into folds of green hills. No roads, no power lines — just mailboxes nailed to jetty posts. We’d stop, someone would hop off with a parcel or a loaf of bread, and sometimes a local would come down for a quick chat. At one stop, an older woman handed us fresh scones through her gate — warm and crumbly, tasted faintly of lemon. I tried not to drop crumbs on my jacket but failed completely. The commentary wasn’t scripted; Dave just told stories as they came up. He laughed when I asked if he ever lost packages overboard (“Only socks!”).

The weather kept shifting — one minute sun on the water so bright you squint, next minute mist rolling off the hills like someone shaking out a blanket. You get coffee or tea onboard (I went for tea; it felt right), and there’s space to sit outside if you want wind in your face. It’s not fast-paced at all — more like drifting through someone else’s everyday life. I still think about that quiet moment when all you hear is water lapping against the hull and maybe a tui calling from somewhere up in the bush.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Mail boat cruise in Marlborough Sounds

• Depart from Havelock
• Deliver mail to remote residents
• Deliver groceries and freight
• Tour Marlborough Sounds inland waterway
• Return to Havelock

Top questions

Is the Pelorus Mail Boat cruise suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Does the Marlborough Sounds mail boat tour operate in bad weather?

Yes, the tour runs in all weather conditions—just dress appropriately for rain or wind.

Is there wheelchair access on the Pelorus Mail Boat?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and service animals are allowed.

Are drinks included during the mail boat cruise?

Coffee and tea are included onboard during your cruise.

Where does the mail boat cruise start from?

The cruise departs from Havelock in Marlborough Sounds.

Can you swim during the day trip on Pelorus Mail Boat?

You may be able to swim but must review and acknowledge their swimming waiver online first.

What’s included

Your day includes guided commentary from local crew as you travel by historic mail boat from Havelock through Marlborough Sounds, delivering real mail and supplies to remote residents along the way—with hot coffee or tea served onboard before returning in the afternoon.