Family owned and operated

The Mail Boat Cruise has been operating for over 150 years, in 1865 Royal Mail Line was established in Picton, the contract was fulfilled by two whaleboats, Swiftsure and Alabama. The company was sold and renamed Red Funnel Launches.

The local Kenny family operated this contract for many years before selling to new owners who renamed the company to Beachcomber Cruises which passed through a few more hands before been sold to 5th Generation New Zealand fisherman Tony and his wife Margaret.

After living in Australia for 26 years raising their family, they looked for an opportunity to return to New Zealand and continue to live by the sea. In 2006 Tony and Margaret purchased Beachcomber Cruises willing to put their heart and souls into the business.

Daughters Jess and Lora work in the family business, and you will often see a granddaughter or 4 eating peppermints out of pops lolly jar.

We are proud to be passionate about family life and the ocean. They have since joint Picton Water Taxis into the business operating on demand private water taxi services within the Queen Charlotte Sound.

“Join us for a trip of a lifetime”

Our fleet is made up of eight vessels operating throughout the Queen Charlotte Sound. These boats vary in size and can cater for groups, functions and weddings. We also offer a range of cruises including our New Zealand Post Mail Run and a  private water taxi service operated under the Picton Water Taxis brand.

Beachcomber Cruises are proud to work within an environment as stunning and naturally beautiful as the Marlborough Sounds. When you cruise with us, you cruise in safety and comfort, aboard vessels designed to highlight the fantastic scenery and surroundings. Our skippers have a comprehensive knowledge of the Sounds which they enjoy sharing with you. The friendly office staff ensure the smooth operation of our services and are Queen Charlotte Track itinerary specialists.

"When you buy from our family owned business, you are not helping a CEO buy a third holiday home. You are helping our granddaughters get dance class, allowing our grandsons to get swimming lessons, getting a student through school and putting food on a family's table. Our customers are our shareholders and are the ones we strive to make happy. Thank you for supporting our family business."