Queen Charlotte Sound Activities

Set in sheltered Double Cove within Queen Charlotte Sound, Portobello Bach Double Cove offers easy access to a wide range of outdoor activities. The calm, protected waters are ideal for kayaking, swimming and snorkelling, while surrounding native bush and coastal tracks provide excellent walking and hiking opportunities. As part of the wider Marlborough Sounds, the area is renowned for its boating, wildlife encounters and outstanding natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for both relaxed exploration and active adventure.

Kayaking

Paddling has proven to be a favourite activity for our guests. The bay is fully protected from almost all wind directions making it easy to explore the two bays that make up Double Cove. A short paddle down the bay takes you to the tame fish feeding area.

The Cormorant nesting area is close by and can be viewed comfortably and close up from the kayak.

Sailing

If you know your way around a sailboat then we have a Sunburst Dinghy available for use. Originally designed as a two person boat, suitable for teaching people to sail, it quickly became a popular choice of sailing dinghy. Capable of handling 2 adults and a child in a gentle breeze it's a great way to explore the bay.

We supply life jackets for all on the water activities.

Walking & Hiking

There are numerous tracks in the Marlborough Sounds with The Queen Charlotte track recognised as one of the leading walks in New Zealand. There are two tracks behind the property, the Powerline Track and the Ridge Track.

The Powerline track runs the length of the bay offering spectacular views and is a gentle walk taking around an hour to complete.

The Ridge Track can be followed to meet the Queen Charlotte Track (QCT). This is a more challenging walk taking around an hour to reach the QCT.

Tame Fish Feeding

Fish feeding is a must activity whilst you're here. There are numerous species of fish which will come to the surface for feeding. It's a five minute paddle in the kayak or a two minute boat ride to the feeding area. Kids particularly enjoy the eruption of the water teaming with hungry fish, all within a few centimetres of your hand.

Spotting Wildlife (Photo Opportunities)

There is an abundance of wildlife on site. Our resident Weka's are ever present so be careful. These cheeky birds love to steal things, in particular anything shiny.

Tui are ever present as are the Kereru (Wood Pigeon). The swoosh of the Kereru lets you now its coming before its arrived and the song of the Tui is unmistakable.

On the dock you don't need to wait long to see a Stingray pass by. These graceful creatures follow the shallows in convoy and are always a pleasure to watch. They are gentle creatures and provided they are not antagonised are harmless.