From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience

Cruise Lake Wakatipu in comfort

Your adventure begins as you step aboard the TSS Earnslaw or the Spirit of Queenstown. As the vessel begins its journey across Lake Wakatipu, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Queenstown’s towering mountain ranges, including the Remarkables and Cecil Peak. As you cruise, enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, and feel the gentle spray of the lake’s clear waters.

A BBQ feast to behold

Arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you’ll disembark and make your way to the beautiful Colonel’s Homestead, a restored 1902 building offering unparalleled lakeside views. Here, you’ll enjoy a mouthwatering buffet-style BBQ, where chefs fire up the grill and prepare succulent meats, freshly baked bread, crisp salads, and local cheeses. The highlight of the meal is the irresistible wood-fired meats that fill the air with tantalizing aromas. After your feast, immerse yourself in the farm experience with an entertaining sheep-herding demonstration, showcasing the skilled farm dogs in action. You’ll have the chance to meet the farm animals, including sheep, cattle, and alpacas, and explore the picturesque lakeside gardens. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this historic farm’s rich past and its stunning alpine setting, making it a perfect day out in Queenstown.

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience

Sailing through the serene waters of Lake Wakatipu, visitors embark on a journey that blends historical charm with modern luxury as they cruise aboard the majestic TSS Earnslaw or the Spirit of Queenstown. The tour invites explorers to delve into the rich tapestry of New Zealand’s heritage and natural beauty while enjoying an exquisite gourmet BBQ experience at Walter Peak Station’s Colonel's Homestead. As travelers step onto these iconic vessels, they are transported back in time with the TSS Earnslaw, a marvel of engineering launched in 1912 as the last remaining coal-fired steamship in the Southern Hemisphere, now meticulously preserved for all to admire and experience. The modern Spirit of Queenstown complements its historic counterpart with contemporary amenities, ensuring comfort and scenic views across the lake’s shimmering surface. This journey through time offers not just a cruise but an immersive encounter with nature and culture, where visitors can savor wood-fired meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts as they gaze upon the breathtaking alpine vistas surrounding Lake Wakatipu. The experience weaves together culinary delights and panoramic landscapes, offering memorable encounters to forge lasting connections while understanding that this adventure is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

Marvel at TSS Earnslaw's Historic Grandeur

Marvel at the TSS Earnslaw during the tour’s highlight segment where history and engineering come alive. Launched in 1912, this coal-fired steamship stands as a testament to bygone eras of industrial might and maritime innovation. Its sturdy hull and elegant lines navigate Lake Wakatipu with grace, offering passengers an unparalleled view of New Zealand's stunning natural beauty while transporting them back to the era of grand steamships. With its original brass fittings and wooden interiors lovingly preserved, the Earnslaw invites visitors to step into a bygone age where every journey was an adventure. The ship’s impressive dimensions—168 feet in length and 25 feet wide—coupled with its capacity for over 700 passengers, make it a remarkable sight on the lake’s waters. This vessel represents more than just transportation; it is a living museum of New Zealand’s rich maritime heritage.

Experience Spirit of Queenstown's Modern Comfort

Access the Spirit of Queenstown as part of the comprehensive itinerary featuring modern luxury and comfort, complementing the historic TSS Earnslaw. Designed to provide a seamless blend of elegance and functionality, this vessel ensures that every journey across Lake Wakatipu is not just an adventure but also a luxurious experience. Its sleek design and contemporary amenities offer passengers panoramic views of the lake’s tranquil waters and the majestic mountains framing its shores. The Spirit of Queenstown showcases the tour's architectural appeal where visitors can relax in comfort while enjoying the scenic beauty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking both historical charm and modern convenience.

Explore Walter Peak Station's Gourmet BBQ Feast

Visit Walter Peak Station during the tour’s centerpiece segment where culinary excellence meets natural splendor. Nestled within the heart of Lake Wakatipu, this charming station invites visitors to indulge in a gourmet BBQ buffet at the Colonel’s Homestead, featuring an array of wood-fired meats that are slow-cooked to perfection, alongside fresh salads and indulgent desserts. The homestead itself is a delightful blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, offering guests a warm and welcoming atmosphere where they can savor their meal while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. This culinary journey not only satisfies the palate but also provides an intimate glimpse into the life of a working farm.

Discover Walter Peak Station's Farmyard Friends

Explore the lively sheep-herding show and farm dogs in action as part of the tour’s engaging entertainment segment showcasing Walter Peak Station’s unique charm. These demonstrations provide visitors with an up-close look at the daily routines and traditions of a working New Zealand farm, offering insights into local farming practices through interactive shows that are both educational and entertaining. The station also offers the chance to meet other friendly animals, such as goats, ducks, and sheep, creating memorable encounters for all ages.

Tour Highlights

• Step aboard
• Cruise across Lake Wakatipu with alpine views
• Marvel at TSS Earnslaw’s historic grandeur
• Relax in comfort on the Spirit of Queenstown
• Indulge in a gourmet BBQ buffet
• Discover Walter Peak Station’s working farm
• Meet friendly animals and watch sheep-herding shows

Sailing for explorers of hidden gems, delighting devotees of culinary delights, and seekers of serene landscapes, this cruise weaves together historical charm with modern luxury, offering a memorable encounter that is like walking through pages of a beautifully illustrated storybook where every turn reveals a new chapter of enchantment.