Going to a Small Town May Sound Boring Unless You Do This

 

The Beauty of Cruising into Small Port Cities

One of the unique aspects of cruising is the opportunity to visit small port cities that larger ships cannot access. While some may the value of docking in these tiny towns, the impact on the local economy can be significant. When a cruise ship arrives, it can bring surge of tourists, injecting life and revenue into these communities.

Last February, I had the chance to experience this firsthand when my cruise ship sailed into Picton, one of the smallest towns in New Zealand. The contrast between the size of our ship and the quaint town was striking. According to Princess Cruises, our ship was as large as Picton itself. When we docked, we effectively doubled the city's population for that day.

Exploring Picton

Piles of Lumber Ready for Export to China from a Lumber Yard


Upon disembarking, my companions and we took the free shuttle to town, bypassing the industrial area with its lumber piles destined for export. As we strolled along the promenade near the marina, we discovered charming shops and restaurants in the heart of town. Our plan was to conclude the day with a cold beer and some green-lipped mussels before returning to the ship.

Our adventure continued as we crossed a bridge to the other side of the marina, where crystal-clear waters revealed marine life like stingrays, starfish, and sea cucumbers. Following a trail head we stumbled upon, we embarked on a rewarding hike that showcased the stunning scenery of the area.



Historic Bridge in Picton Over Scenic Waterway



Clear Waters by the marina with boats docked

A Memorable Hike

The trail started gently but gradually ascended, offering increasingly breathtaking views as we climbed. With makeshift hiking poles in hand, we navigated the gravel-lined path shaded by trees. At the summit, we were treated to a panoramic vista of the surrounding islands, with our ship visible in the distance.

After our hike, some of us returned to the ship for a snack, while others ventured into town for local cuisine. Sampling fish and chips, green-lipped mussels, and hokey pokey ice cream, we savored the flavors of Picton.

Embracing Adventure

The day's highlight was undoubtedly the impromptu hike we embarked on. Not only did it provide a memorable experience, but it also saved us from spending on a shore excursion. There are websites and apps that are available to you to find hiking trails all over the world. Two of them that are most useful include All Trails and Trail Forks.

So, the next time you find yourself in a small port city during a cruise, be sure to seek out a hiking trail. You never know what hidden gems and breathtaking views you might uncover on your own adventure.

Scenic Harbour View of Picton with Mountains and Ocean


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