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From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise
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Highlights

  • Take a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran across Lake Wakatipu, with views of Queenstown's alpine peaks.
  • Combine your cruise with a guided tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you'll meet farm animals and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea.
  • Choose to add a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak Farm to your cruise, where you'll dine with lakeside views in a peaceful high-country setting.
  • Add a small-group horse trek to your cruise, riding through Walter Peak's rolling farmland, led by an experienced guide.
  • Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu’s unique Z-shape causes its water level to rise and fall rhythmically every 25 minutes—local legend calls it the heartbeat of a giant.

Your Experience

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship or sleek catamaran, then tailor your journey with a farm tour, lakeside BBQ, or horseback ride.

Getting started

Head to the Steamer Wharf in Queenstown to board your vessel—either the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown. Arrive at least 20 minutes early. Your ticket will be scanned before boarding; no ID checks required. Security is minimal but bags may be checked.

What to expect

  • Lake Wakatipu: New Zealand’s third-largest lake, shaped like a lightning bolt, framed by the Remarkables mountain range. Known for its mysterious ‘tidal rise’ every 25 minutes.

  • Cruise across the lake: Sail past forested hills, alpine peaks, and quiet bays. The TSS Earnslaw features a working steam engine and piano lounge. The Spirit of Queenstown offers an open-air top deck with panoramic views.

Extras

  • Walter Peak Farm: Step ashore for a hands-on tour of a working high country farm. Feed sheep, meet Highland cattle, and see sheepdogs in action.

  • BBQ at the Homestead: Enjoy a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at a lakefront restaurant with local meats, fresh salads, and decadent desserts.

  • Horse trek: Join a guided ride through scenic paddocks and rolling hills, suitable for all levels. Helmets and instruction provided.

After your visit, cruise back across the lake with fresh views of Queenstown and the surrounding peaks.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • Cruise on Lake Wakatipu
  • Live commentary on the cruise
  • **Walter Peak Farm Tour** (if option selected)
  • Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm
  • English-speaking guide
  • Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
  • Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
  • **Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Meal** (if option selected)
  • Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner buffet here (based on time selected) (based on time selected)
  • Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
  • **Walter Peak Horse Trekking Tour** (if option selected)
  • 45-minute horse trekking tour
  • Nature guide
  • Small group of up to 6 people
  • Freshly baked morning or afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
  • Safety helmet and wet weather clothing
  • **Walter Peak Garden to Table experience (if option selected)**
  • Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu
  • Guided tour of the kitchen gardens with produce tasting
  • Native flora & conservation walk
  • Opportunity to plant a native tree or shrub
  • Garden-to-table light lunch, featuring homegrown & locally sourced ingredients
  • Expert host commentary throughout the experience
  • **Spirit of Queenstown cruise (if option selected)**
  • 1-hour 30-min Spirit of Queenstown cruise
  • Live commentary by expert skipper
  • Access to open top deck
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

This product offers multiple ticket options. Some items above (like transfers or fast-track access) may only apply to specific options — confirm what's included when you select yours.

Ticket Delivery

  • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

  • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

  • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

Boarding point

  • Board your cruise at Steamer Wharf.

  • Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand.

Get directions to the boarding point

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Frequently asked questions

Clear answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking this experience.

Booking FAQs

Bring your covered shoes/boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera. Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite. Bring a cash-free payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

Safety is a priority so the horse trekking experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft) and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb).

The Spirit of Queenstown is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier to board with prams or mobility aids. The TSS Earnslaw, with its heritage design, may present some challenges for those with limited mobility or prams. The Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, so it may be challenging for wheelchair users. Those with impaired mobility should consider their comfort level before participating. The restaurant for the BBQ dining is easily accessible, except for the short gravel path from the wharf, which may require assistance for some wheelchair users. The horse trekking tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels, including first-time riders.

The cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to poor weather, you will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund. The TSS Earnslaw is scheduled to undergo annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.

Reviews

4.8 (909 reviews)

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