From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise

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.

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise

Discover Lake Wakatipu and its surrounding alpine peaks on this scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran, departing from Queenstown. This tour includes a guided farm visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you can meet various farm animals and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea. You have the option to add gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak Farm, with lakeside views in a peaceful high-country setting. Additionally, a small-group horse trek through Walter Peak’s rolling farmland is available for those who want an extra adventure led by experienced guides. The tour covers approximately 20 kilometers across Lake Wakatipu and includes stops at Queenstown, Glenorchy, and the Walter Peak Farm area. With audio commentary in English and guided tours in multiple languages, this cruise offers a unique glimpse into New Zealand’s natural beauty and rural life. The duration of the entire experience is about five hours, including transportation from Queenstown to Lake Wakatipu and back.

Explore TSS Earnslaw: Historic Steamship

Your tour stops at TSS Earnslaw where you can board New Zealand’s largest coal-fired steamship, built in 1912. The ship measures 65 meters in length with a beam of 8.7 meters and has a gross tonnage of 405 tons. Visitors can explore the engine room, dining saloon, and deck areas while learning about its history from knowledgeable guides who provide information on the ship’s construction and operation during the early 20th century. TSS Earnslaw played an essential role in transporting passengers and supplies between Queenstown and Glenorchy for over eight decades before being converted into a tourist attraction in 1986. The steamship is unique due to its continued use as a passenger vessel, offering visitors a chance to experience firsthand the charm of vintage travel on Lake Wakatipu.

Experience Walter Peak High Country Farm: Guided Tour

Your tour continues at Walter Peak High Country Farm where you can explore over 10,000 acres of rolling farmland and scenic pastures. The farm was established in the mid-19th century and has since become a renowned destination for visitors interested in New Zealand’s rural heritage. Highlights include meeting sheep, cattle, goats, and deer during interactive animal encounters that take place throughout the day. Visitors spend approximately two hours on the farm engaging with various activities such as shearing demonstrations and guided walks around the property. The farm is unique because it offers a combination of educational tours and hands-on experiences in a picturesque setting, allowing guests to learn about farming practices while enjoying stunning views of Lake Wakatipu.

Tour Highlights

• Scenic cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown catamaran
• Guided farm tour at Walter Peak High Country Farm with animal encounters
• Freshly baked afternoon tea in a high-country setting
• Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner option available at Walter Peak Farm
• Small-group horse trek through Walter Peak’s rolling farmland led by experienced guides
• Audio commentary and guided tours in English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese languages
• Lakeside dining with panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding peaks
• Educational sessions on farming practices and rural life in New Zealand

Perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and food connoisseurs, this sightseeing tour provides an immersive experience through scenic cruises, guided tours, and gourmet dining. The five-hour format allows you to explore TSS Earnslaw, visit Walter Peak High Country Farm, and enjoy a horse trek in the rolling farmland, giving you unparalleled access to Queenstown’s natural beauty and rural charm while enjoying unique activities such as animal encounters and high-country dining.