Bike Options
Biking Distances:
Ship Cove to Punga Cove:
26.5 kms
approx 5 hours
Please Note: Ship Cove to Punga Cove section closed to bikes December to March annually
Punga Cove to Portage:
20.5 kms
approx 4 hours
Portage to Anakiwa - 20 kms
approx 4 hours
* all times are DOC recommended walking times
It is easy to plan a bike trip with Cougar Line.
The longest dual purpose track in New Zealand, broad enough to handle both mountain bikers and walkers
with ease, the Queen Charlotte Track is regarded by many bikers as the best track ride in New Zealand. There are easy exit points for those not wishing to ride the most technical sections.
Mountain bikers of all levels will revel in the undulating landscape of the 71km Queen Charlotte Track. The track can be comfortably ridden from Ship Cove to Anakiwa in two days by people with a reasonable level of fitness or three days if more time is available. There are challenging climbs and descents for the experienced. It’s safe too for novice riders, who can exit in
many places, take the road or cruise ahead with us.
Cougar Line can package together a top mountain bike hire* and boat transfers. Combination biking and kayaking trips and transfers are also packaged to make planning a breeze. Free transfer of luggage to accommodation each day means you have no bulk to carry and freedom to move.
Round Trip Track Pass
The Cougar Line's daily scheduled departures While you’re pedalling in freedom, we’ll transfer your packs daily between accommodation. A Round Trip Track Pass will take you and your bike to and from the track. Cougar Line will transfer your bike safely in bike racks on board the boats. A small charge applies. Your luggage will be transferred on to your choice of accommodation.
We understand the great investment you have made when purchasing your bike and we will ensure your bike is stowed carefully while in transit.
Can bikers use the track all year? The track is open all year round to walkers and bikers - with the exception of the Ship Cove to Punga Cove section which is closed from December through to end of February each year.
Adventure Highlights: Drop off at any entry point on the track • Collect you from any exit point • Free transfer of luggage to accommodation along the track • Free transfer across Endeavour Inlet from Furneaux Lodge to Punga Cove • enquire about our
generous group discounts
Pack transfers
Cougar Line offers a complimentary pack transfer service for every biker or walker booking a Round Trip Track Pass.
Your luggage will be transferred each day to your accommodation of choice along the track. You need only carry a day- pack each day.
Luggage is carried at the owners risk. We take every effort to care for your pack but it passes through a number of hands every day therefore Cougar Line can take no responsibility for any damage that might occur in transit.
* For bike hire please visit
www.marlboroughsounds.co.nz - this New Zealand Tourism award winning company (next to to ours) can provide you with to quality equipment and advice necessary to ensure a safe, enjoyable experience