Sightseeing Cruises

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

4.8/5(590)

Rosemary J

Group

Verified booking

Last week

The trip on TSS Earnslaw in October was one of the most special evenings and I would highly recommend. (Because the boat is so beautiful and the backdrop of snow peaked mountains was glorious I had to take video and put a reel together for social media.) Arriving at the homestead we were greeted by staff and the buffet meal was unbelievable. Food was fresh and such a variety of produce. New Zealand do it so well. Leaving at 5pm was perfect as we got to see a sunset on the way back to Queenstown and were welcomed by its twinkling lights. Such a unique experience.

Jennifer B

Group

Verified booking

2 weeks ago

It was a beautiful trip along the lake to Walter's Peak. Sit outside at the front to really appreciate the scenery. And then the BBQ buffet at the restaurant was fun and tasty, and sitting on the terrrace was stunning. The dog show was short but interesting and fun. And then the cruise back as the sunset was another lovely ride. Everyone was very kind and friendly. Lots to enjoy for the price. Highly recommend!

Nicole T

Couple

Verified booking

5 days ago

The TSS Earnslaw cruise was lovely. Staff were lovely and coffee was perfect! Thoroughly enjoyed the BBQ gourmet lunch. Great variety of food and everything tasted delicious. I loved how we were greeted when the boat pulled into the wharf. Was good to see the sheep sheering. The grounds are so beautiful and the scenery surrounding the farm is glorious. Its a must to do.

Sandra F

Group

Verified booking

Last week

This was an amazing experience from the beautiful old Steam boat ride across Lake Wakatipu to the fantastic gourmet buffet meal waiting at the end with top class service. However the highlight for us was the farm dog show at the end having come from a sheep farming background. We would definitely recommend this experience whilst in Queenstown.

Bernadette C

Couple

Verified booking

4 days ago

YSS Earnslaw is a treasure and the crew who look after it are champions. Lunch at Walter Peak was delicious, staff and service excellent. We loved the walk around the farm and the stellar kelpie rounding up the sheep. Everything about this trip is beautifully co-ordinated. The attention to detail made it extra special.

Thy H

Couple

Verified booking

2 days ago

The BBQ gourmet lunch was superb. High quality food beautifully served in a historic homestead. Staff were friendly and helpful. The cruise was relaxing. Well organised. The sheep shearing and farm dog display was fun to watch. This is a must do activity when visiting Queenstown.

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.

590 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
Melissa B
Solo
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
The scenery, the amazing gourmet bbq lunch, the lovely staff, pianist and singer were lovely and soft music. It would be great to have an Adults only cruise in the evening.
Yifan L
Family
Verified booking
Sep 2026
Great experience with app to managing booking. Quick response for enquiry. Amazing service on cruise. All staff is attentive and helpful.
Leonie T
Family
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
Beautiful cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Super smooth. The food was outstanding. Dessert was delicious, and the scenery was breathtaking.
Rosemary J
Group
Verified booking
Last week
The trip on TSS Earnslaw in October was one of the most special evenings and I would highly recommend. (Because the boat is so beautiful and the backdrop of snow peaked mountains was glorious I had to take video and put a reel together for social media.) Arriving at the homestead we were greeted by staff and the buffet meal was unbelievable. Food was fresh and such a variety of produce. New Zealand do it so well. Leaving at 5pm was perfect as we got to see a sunset on the way back to Queenstown and were welcomed by its twinkling lights. Such a unique experience.
Jennifer B
Group
Verified booking
2 weeks ago
It was a beautiful trip along the lake to Walter's Peak. Sit outside at the front to really appreciate the scenery. And then the BBQ buffet at the restaurant was fun and tasty, and sitting on the terrrace was stunning. The dog show was short but interesting and fun. And then the cruise back as the sunset was another lovely ride. Everyone was very kind and friendly. Lots to enjoy for the price. Highly recommend!

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.