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All 27 Blenheim Attractions »

The River Queen

Horton Street, Blenheim, New Zealand
0064 3 5775510
Ranked #3 of 8 tours in Blenheim
5.0 of 5 stars 29 Reviews
Type: Boat Tours
Owner description: Discover another world on Marlborough's River Queen, a classic riverboat, styled for comfort. Relax as you cruise through the vineyards, enjoying...... more » Owner description: Discover another world on Marlborough's River Queen, a classic riverboat, styled for comfort. Relax as you cruise through the vineyards, enjoying local food and drink - boutique wines and beers available from the on-board bar.Complimentary pick-up service available around Blenheim town. « less
Useful Information: Wheelchair access, Bathroom facilities
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29 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
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Date Rating
Peter C
Blenheim, New Zealand
Reviewer
5 reviews
4 of 5 stars Reviewed February 14, 2012

A graceful slice of history on SH1 as you drive sounth off the Ferry. Signage is a bit sketchy but you'll find it-just ask a local! Fantastic personal service from Peter & Sandra (owner operators) and Dylan the Skipper. It's not the most spectacular stretch of river in NZ to be honest but it makes a relaxing start to your... More

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Mike C
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed February 11, 2012

Having spoken to Peter the day before we booked for an afternoon tea/pre-dinner drinks and nibbles cruise (we went with drinks and nibbles), hoping they had room for 3 more. We were in luck - mid week of the first week of school we were the only passengers! We sat up top, out the front. This meant no recorded commentary,... More

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Paul S
Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 24, 2012

A wonderful and tranquil cruise down the Opawa river on board a classic paddlesteamer. Travelling past the vineyards and farm land we were given an excellent platter of food and a bottle of the local white wine as we listened to historical information about the area. Our host Peter was very friendly and exceptionally knowledgable about the area and it's... More

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Canterburyvisitor
Canterbury
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 23, 2012

The River Queen, River boat cuise in Blenheim is a treat not to be missed. From the welcoming and knowledgeable staff to the owner who was passionate about the craft, the whole experience was a pleasure. The River Queen has been exquisitely restored, looks a picture and the information about the area, presented as we cruised, was comprehensive, informative and... More

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Steph S
Wellington, New Zealand
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed January 21, 2012

I was asked to organise a hens night in Blenheim, and the River Queen was highly recommended by a friend. It was so simple to deal with Sandra and Peter, and they honestly could not do enough for us. We had an absolutely amazing trip; the weather was perfect for a cruise and it was great to see a bit... More

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Melanie S
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed November 17, 2011

We had a great time. They came to pick us up at our hotel to take us back in time on a beautiful boat. Our host was very welcoming, we were fed delicious treats, and learned about the history of Blenheim. Since the boat is enclosed, we were warm despite the cold outside. What a wonderful break to our fast... More

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Grammie-1955
Burlington, Canada
Reviewer
3 reviews
3 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 23, 2011

I so enjoyed the 4pm boat ride along with my 2 sisters and having Peter to fill us in on the history of the boat,river and the Wither Hills and the Moa ..Stunning scenery,calm+ cosy,tasty wines+ canapes! You can sit inside where there is a fireplace,or on the top deck for some lovely views too. it was a great way... More

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Beth M
Auckland, New Zealand
Senior Reviewer
6 reviews
1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed October 20, 2011

Cruising the Opawa River on the River Queen run and hosted by Peter and crew, is the best way to spend a few idyllic hours in Blenheim. Peter is the ultimate host, considerate, full of interesting tales of Blenheim, its history, both on the river and off. He makes everyone feel very welcome and special. The attention to detail during... More

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buzzbuzz10
London, United Kingdom
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed September 18, 2011

This is a cruise down the Opawa river from the centre of Blenheim out to the southwest. As children many of us probably mucked about on the bank of a river with our friends, trying to net sticklebacks or wading into see what the larger fish are doing or perhaps trying to sneek up on the local birds. This trip... More

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Adam D
Melbourne, Australia
1 review
5 of 5 stars Reviewed August 20, 2011

Was welcomed onboard my skipper Dylan and was immediately impressed.Polished floors and very spacious areas made me feel relaxed and comfortable.Questions were answered regarding the history of the River Queen and an onboard commentary provided during the cruise up the winding river with light background music playing which was refreshing and unobtrusive. Light lunch was very tasty and substanial.Served by... More

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