Katabatic Charters

Katabatic Charters is a locally built, owned, and operated charter boat that offers tailored sightseeing, fishing, and diving charters around the Marlborough Sounds.

The boat is surveyed to carry 16 passengers, but the owner, Grant Orchard, limits charter parties to a maximum of 10 to keep things easy and intimate. Katabatic Charters specializes in tailor-made cruising, sightseeing, fishing, and overnight charters. The boat is a 13m launch that is beautiful, with a wonderful back story. The boat's name hints at a similarly invigorating experience for charter guests. Nothing like a katabatic to whistle the cobwebs from your mind. The boat offers a unique experience where guests help to catch lunch/dinner and then watch the skipper, a professional chef, prepare it. Of course, it’s all washed down with some of the region’s finest wines.The boat offers a variety of charters, including sightseeing, fishing, and diving. The water is not warm, but the fish life and underwater scenery are surprisingly good. The close sighting of an albatross, plus blue penguins and dolphins, add to the experience. The boat also visits the bird sanctuary on Motuara Island, where guests can enjoy a beautiful lunch near Ship Cove. The boat offers half-day, full-day, and overnight charters. The overnight charters are limited to two couples only.The pricing for Katabatic Charters is $207.00 per adult. Catering is available for $6.00 per head. The boat requires an entire boat hire, and the limit is eight persons. There is no per head charge. The boat has a cancellation policy where inside 14 days cancellation, there is a fee of 100% required. Outside of 14 days, a 25% fee is required. This covers fuel bunkered and associated logistics in getting the boat prepared.Katabatic Charters is a Marlborough Sounds bucket list experience. Young or old, there are no restrictions. The boat offers a unique, intimate, and authentic experience. The owner, Grant Orchard, is a Picton local who is knowledgeable, friendly, and talented. He desires to show off the Marlborough Sounds with their diverse scenery and colorful history. Katabatic Charters is conveniently located at Picton Marina, Jetty 8, berth 4, off Waikawa road, Picton, NZ 722.