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Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience

TSS Earnslaw steamship cruising Lake Whakatipu, Queenstown, New Zealand.
TSS Earnslaw steamship cruising Lake Wakatipu towards Walter Peak, New Zealand.
People enjoying the cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw steamboat on Lake Wakatipu with Queenstown mountains in the background.
View of the barbeque preparations during TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak for a BBQ feast, farm show, and lakeside views – a must-do Queenstown experience.

Highlights

  • 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 and enjoy a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu with breathtaking 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.

  • Discover the life of a working farm with a lively sheep-herding show, farm dogs in action, and the chance to meet other friendly animals.

  • 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.

Inclusions

  • Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show

  • Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner buffet menu here (based on time selected)

  • 90-minute TSS Earnslaw cruise across Lake Wakatipu

  • Live commentary on the cruise

Exclusions

  • Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board TSS Earnslaw)

Cancellation Policy

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

Reviews

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4.7
32 ratings
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  • Australia
  • United States
  • Canada
  • Denmark
  • United Kingdom
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Guests from Australia, United States, Canada and over 7 countries have loved this experience
Darren Nosworthy

Darren

5/5

Jan, 2025

Going on the TSS Earnslaw Cruise was a wonderful experience, it was easy to book, very relaxing , the views of the lake were breathtaking, food was excellent, staff were fun, the whole experience was just superb, thank you! Highly recommend this tour.
Lianne Lee

Lianne

5/5

Jan, 2025

Great experience in Queenstown, the cruise on the steamship was lovely, and the food was excellent. Well organized and the farm show was also very interesting! Highly recommend!
Tracy Cousins

Tracy

5/5

Jan, 2025

The efficient high quality service and food. Politeness and feeling as though nothing was too much trouble. The food was amazing.
Jamin Crawley

Jamin

5/5

Jan, 2025

The boat ride was smooth sailing, and interesting to learn about the ship's history and operation. The farm was amazing too. The buffet bbq was delicious and the sheep shearing demo was interesting. The only negative was the time at Walter Peak was a bit rushed.
Helen Jane Andrews

Helen

5/5

Jan, 2025

The ticketing was simple and the organisation at Walter Peak Farmstead was excellent. The journey on the TSS Earnslaw was interesting and the singalong on the way back fun.

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on a living legend

Your adventure begins as you step aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage steamship with a rich history dating back to 1912. As the iconic 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.

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

  • TSS Earnslaw is wheelchair accessible. If you need wheelchair assistance, kindly make a note when booking.

  • 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 undergoes 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

  • Board your cruise at Steamer Wharf.

  • Address: 88 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand.

Get directions to the boarding point

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