From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise
From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise
Duration: Varies (1.5 hours to 3.5 hours)
Varies (1.5 hours to 3.5 hours)
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience
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Expert local tour guide
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Experience an memorable journey with the From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise, where you can sail on New Zealand’s third-largest lake aboard a vintage steamship or modern catamaran from Queenstown's Steamer Wharf. Customize your adventure by choosing to explore further with options like a farm tour, lakeside BBQ, or horseback ride along the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, framed by the Remarkables mountain range. Ensure you arrive at least 20 minutes early for boarding and have your ticket ready as it will be scanned upon entry—security is minimal but bags may be checked.
Experience an memorable journey with the From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise, where you can sail on New Zealand’s third-largest lake aboard a vintage steamship or modern catamaran from Queenstown's Steamer Wharf. Customize your adventure by choosing to explore further with options like a farm tour, lakeside BBQ, or horseback ride along the scenic shores of Lake Wakatipu, framed by the Remarkables mountain range. Ensure you arrive at least 20 minutes early for boarding and have your ticket ready as it will be scanned upon entry—security is minimal but bags may be checked.
A scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard either the historic TSS Earnslaw or modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran offers stunning views of alpine peaks near Queenstown.
Enhance your experience by combining a guided tour at Walter Peak High Country Farm with your cruise, where farm animals and freshly baked afternoon tea await you.
With lakeside views in the serene high-country setting, enjoy dining on gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner as an optional addition to your Lake Wakatipu Cruise at Walter Peak Farm.
Experience a peaceful horse trek through rolling farmland of Walter Peak led by experienced guides during your cruise. This option is available for small groups only.
Did you know? The rhythmic rise and fall of water levels in Lake Wakatipu every 25 minutes, resembling the heartbeat of a giant, adds to its unique Z-shape.
Entry for a Cruise on Lake Wakatipu
Access to live commentary during the cruise
Ticket includes a Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm
One English-speaking guide provided
Admission covers Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Use of Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
Includes Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner buffet here (based on time selected) (based on time selected)
Return visit for the Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Covers 45-minute horse trekking tour
Access to a Nature guide
Ticket valid for up to 6 people in a small group
Entry includes Freshly baked morning or afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
Use of safety helmet and wet weather clothing provided
Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu included
Includes Guided tour of the kitchen gardens with produce tasting
Access to a Native flora & conservation walk
Opportunity to plant a native tree or shrub
Garden-to-table light lunch, featuring homegrown & locally sourced ingredients provided
Expert host commentary throughout the experience included
1-hour 30-min Spirit of Queenstown cruise covered
Live commentary by expert skipper available during the cruise
Access to open top deck on board
Wheelchair accessible facilities
Other edibles and beverages for sale
Boat cruising on Lake Wakatipu with mountainous landscape in the background.
Your experience on Lake Wakatipu Cruise
Start a memorable journey aboard either the vintage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the sleek Spirit of Queenstown catamaran. Enhance your adventure by exploring Walter Peak Farm, savoring a lakeside BBQ at Freshly's homestead, or taking an English-speaking guided horse trek.
Getting started in Queenstown
Gather at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown to board the TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown. Arrive 20 minutes early for a smooth boarding process where your ticket will be scanned, and security checks may include bag inspections.
What's on offer during your cruise
- Lake Wakatipu: New Zealand’s third-largest lake is shaped like a lightning bolt with the Remarkables mountain range as its backdrop. It experiences an intriguing ‘tidal rise’ every 25 minutes.
- Cruise experience: Glide past forested hills, alpine peaks, and tranquil bays on Lake Wakatipu Cruise. The TSS Earnslaw offers a working steam engine and piano lounge while the Spirit of Queenstown provides an open-air top deck with stunning views.
Optional extras to enhance your visit
- Walter Peak Farm: Discover farm life firsthand on this high country farm. Engage in activities like feeding sheep, meeting Highland cattle, and observing sheepdogs at work.
- Lakeside BBQ experience: Relish gourmet meals featuring local meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts at a lakeshore restaurant during your lunch or dinner break.
- Horse trekking adventure: Start an English-speaking guided ride through picturesque paddocks and rolling hills. Helmets and instructions are provided for all skill levels.
Conclude your experience with a return cruise across Lake Wakatipu, offering fresh perspectives of Queenstown's iconic peaks.
Tourists walking along a path at Walter Peak High Country Farm with scenic views.
Woman leaning out steamship window with arms outstretched on a lake near Queenstown.
Boat cruising on Lake Wakatipu with mountainous landscape in the background.
Tourists walking along a path at Walter Peak High Country Farm with scenic views.
Woman leaning out steamship window with arms outstretched on a lake near Queenstown.
Family walking through flower garden at Walter Peak High Country Farm, New Zealand.
What to bring
- Covered shoes or boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended.
- Packing medications is advisable as they may not be available on site.
A cash-free payment method should be brought for meals, souvenirs, and additional experiences beyond the ticket coverage.
What’s not allowed
Horse trekking is only permitted for guests aged 7 years or older, taller than 1.2m (3.94ft), and weighing less than 100kg (220.46lb) due to safety considerations.
Accessibility
- The Spirit of Queenstown accommodates prams and mobility aids for easier boarding; however, the TSS Earnslaw's heritage design might pose challenges for those with limited mobility or using prams.
- The Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, which could be difficult for wheelchair users. Consider comfort levels if you have impaired mobility before joining this tour.
- Access to the BBQ dining restaurant is generally straightforward except for a short gravel path from the wharf that might require assistance for some wheelchair users.
The horse trekking experience accommodates riders of all skill levels, including beginners.
Additional information
- Cruise operations depend on favorable weather conditions. In case of cancellations due to adverse weather, rescheduling or a full refund is available as options.
The TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.
Tourist watering plant at Walter Peak High Country Farm with mountains in background.
Tourists feeding Highland cattle at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Family walking through flower garden at Walter Peak High Country Farm, New Zealand.
Tourist watering plant at Walter Peak High Country Farm with mountains in background.
Tourists feeding Highland cattle at Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Arrive at least 20 minutes early for boarding and have your ticket ready as security checks may include bag inspections; this will help ensure a smooth start to your adventure.
Avoid bringing PDF files or printed documents, instead prepare by downloading any necessary information on your device in advance to streamline entry processes without specific app requirements mentioned.
Don't forget covered shoes/boots with nonslip soles and long trousers for comfort during the cruise; also pack warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera to capture stunning views of Lake Wakatipu’s alpine scenery.
If you plan on enjoying additional activities such as dining at Walter Peak Farm or taking part in horseback riding, consider bringing cash-free payment methods for any purchases not covered by your ticket.
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