French Pass Travel Guide
This magnificent wilderness area in the
Marlborough Sounds lies north-east of
Nelson. A visit to this area is a wildlife discovery adventure, with both land and water wildlife tours available. The French Pass passage is a combination of churning currents and whirlpools which can prove treacherous for vessels. The 19th century explorer Dumont D'Urville was spun by its tumultuous whirlpools and almost lost his vessel. French Pass gained fame in the early 1900s as the home of Pelorus Jack, a dolphin which for 20 years accompanied vessels crossing Admiralty Bay.
Attractions:
- Wildlife tours
Experienced tour operators competently negotiate the treacherous waters to view wildlife such as king shag (one of the world's rarest seabirds), terns, gannets, penguins, seals and dolphins.
- Swimming with Dolphins
In more sheltered areas of the pass, swimming with seals and dophins is possible.
- Outdoor activities
Land-based activities include walking and mountain biking, while sea-based options include sport fishing, diving and kayaking.
- Walks
South of French Pass, the 2 day Nydia Track starts at Kaiuma and ends at Duncan Bay, offering fine views of Nydia Bay. Another spectacular walk is the Queen Charlotte Walkway (3-5 days), which crosses through dense coastal forest and by golden bays en route from Ship Cove to Anakiwa.
- French Pass Cruise
Beachcomber Cruises offer a cruise from Havelock (south of French Pass) along the Pelorus Sound, past Maud Island and around to French Pass.
