Very scenic and breathtaking views. The Town of Picton is lovely and quite quaint almost depict of a English seaside town. There are Lots of straight roads with Scottish names and the trees almost make you think you are in Scotland, albeit, your not. The coastline is amazing to watch with the volcanic peaks emerging from the water.

Cruising in a self drive boat free to do what you want 2 hours just went like that the sounds was awesome the views the clear waters we had great fun we will be back

We arrived in Picton from Wellington by the ferry. The views from the boat are just stunning. Every time the vessel turns a corner in the sound the landscape just overwhelms your emotions with color and the mountains around the sound.
There are many ways to see the sound other than the ferry once you arrive. There are kayaks, and boats to hire and there are also hiking trails around the Picton area that you can spend the day enjoying the land. The town of Picton is wonderful little place to spend the day. There are many shop and places to eat at along the street. There is also a museum and an aquarium by the ferry terminal to spend time at.

I took the long trip to Doubtful Sound from Wakefield last week, and wish I had not bothered. The mail boat cruise of Queen Charlotte Sound is much prettier and very interesting. I chose the Beachcomber line and the boat was very comfortable, with free tea and coffee. The commentary was very interesting and amusing. We stopped for a short time at Ship Cove, which is lovely, then went to various houses or little villages, dropping off the mail.
Picton is a delightful little port and the Marlborough Sounds are jaw-droppingly beautiful. The price was NZ$91 per adult. Worth every cent!