From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Cruise

4.8(1074)1 hr 30 minEnglish, Spanish, French, Italian +16Queenstown, New Zealand

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$44

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.

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.

Included

Cruise on Lake Wakatipu
Live commentary on the cruise
Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm
English-speaking guide
Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner buffet here (based on time selected) (based on time selected)
Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
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
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
1-hour 30-min Spirit of Queenstown cruise
Live commentary by expert skipper
Access to open top deck
Wheelchair accessible

Not included

Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Choose your option

5 options

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Meeting and pickup

1 location

Pickup detailsRead more

• 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

Meeting point1

Meeting
Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, Queenstown
Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, Queenstown, QUEENSTOWN, 9300, New Zealand
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End point

End

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Good to know

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.