Sightseeing Cruises

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

Duration

3 hrs 30 mins

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

4.8/5(500)

Timothy M

Solo

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

It was a completely unique experiencr that deeply reflected the heart of this area of New Zealand. The nostalgic steam boat ride across the lake on the TSS Earnlaw, as the sun set was spectacular. Then arriving at Walter Peak like we'd travelled back in time was magical. The gift shop & farm show were both worth the trip. But the buffet dinner is unbelievable. So much choice - everything fresh & delicious.

Castille P

Couple

Verified booking

Jun 2026

The TSS Earnslaw cruise and gourmet BBQ experience was one of the highlights of our Queenstown trip. The views across Lake Wakatipu were absolutely stunning, and it was a unique experience sailing on such a historic steamship. The BBQ lunch exceeded expectations with a great variety of fresh meats, seafood, salads, and desserts. The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff were friendly and attentive, and everything was very well organized. We also enjoyed exploring Walter Peak and watching the farm demonstration. A fantastic experience that perfectly combines breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a taste of New Zealand history. Highly recommended!

Kyra F

Couple

Verified booking

Jun 2026

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We just completed the TSS Earnslaw experience and it was absolutely incredible from start to finish. The scenery was breathtaking, the historic steamship was beautifully maintained, and the whole experience was well organized. The staff were friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable, making the trip even more enjoyable. It was the perfect way to experience the beauty of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Highly recommend this to anyone visiting Queenstown—an unforgettable experience!

Ideal for foodies and nature lovers, the TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak BBQ offers a unique Queenstown lakeside dining adventure.

Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown and enjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu with alpine and lakeside views along the way.

Relish a gourmet BBQ buffet at the charming Colonel’s Homestead, featuring wood-fired meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts.

Unwind after dinner with an entertaining farm dog show showcasing the skill and teamwork of working dogs.

Fun fact: Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the last remaining coal-fired steamship in the Southern Hemisphere, lovingly preserved for all to enjoy.

Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show

Gourmet BBQ experience here (based on time selected)

90-minute TSS Earnslaw cruise (as per option selected)

60-minute Spirit of Queenstown cruise (as per option selected)

Live commentary

Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

500 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Australia, United States, United Kingdom and over 21 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Timothy M
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
It was a completely unique experiencr that deeply reflected the heart of this area of New Zealand. The nostalgic steam boat ride across the lake on the TSS Earnlaw, as the sun set was spectacular. Then arriving at Walter Peak like we'd travelled back in time was magical. The gift shop & farm show were both worth the trip. But the buffet dinner is unbelievable. So much choice - everything fresh & delicious.
Debra C
Family
Verified booking
Last week
We had an amazing afternoon. The boat trip was just incredible, the BBQ banquet was absolutely delicious and the farm experience also great. What an incredibly talented working dog you have. Thank you for a great day.
Robyn S
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
Loved the steam ship open engineroom, old style accoodation and memorabilia. Working telegraph, bells, sounds and smooth operation of the steam engines. Hush power .
Elizabeth A
Family
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Unfortunatly the whole experience was quiet rushed. We had to wait for the buffet lunch which was fine but we were one of the last tables and the meat that was left was all the crappy parts unfortunatly and it was not replienshed. We were not advised what time the sheep show was and had to find out the information. Just needed longer on the island because between the lunch and sheep show we didn't get to see anything else. Steam boat over and back was good. I also reached out to your team and asked how much each ticket was, as we had two familes in the booking which considered of kids and adults and for some reason have been advised you cannot tell us the cost of an adult and child ticket, very very annoying. Not sure if I would book another trip through heaout again,
Matthew B
Family
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Engines were really cool, food and show

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown with a gourmet BBQ lunch and farm show at Walter Peak Station.

Getting started Board the TSS Earnslaw or the Spirit of Queenstown catamaran at the Queenstown lakefront. Settle in as the vessel departs, offering scenic views of the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and surrounding mountains.

What to expect Enjoy a relaxing cruise across Lake Wakatipu with opportunities to explore the engine room and learn about the steamship’s historic coal-fired workings. Disembark at Walter Peak Station to dine in the restored Colonel’s Homestead, explore the gardens, watch the farm demonstration, and photograph the picturesque alpine and lakeside scenery.

Features

Lake Wakatipu cruise: Scenic journey aboard the TSS Earnslaw or catamaran with panoramic mountain views.

Engine room access: Explore the steamship’s historic coal-fired workings and learn from the captain.

Gourmet BBQ lunch: Buffet-style meal with wood-fired meats, fresh bread, cheeses, and salads.

Colonel’s Homestead: Dine in the 1902 homestead with lakeside views and colonial charm.

Farm experience: Sheep-herding demonstration, meet farm animals including sheep, cattle, and alpacas.

Gardens and photo spots: Stroll through Homestead Gardens and capture alpine and lake scenery.

What to bring

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.

Accessibility

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 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.

Additional information

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 and Spirit of Queenstown undergo yearly maintenance, during which an alternative vessel will be in service.

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

Please check your final voucher for the boarding point details and specific instructions.