Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

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.

Tourist watering plant at Walter Peak High Country Farm with mountains in background.

Duration

1 hr 30 min - 3 hr 30 min

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.

Guided tour

Meals included

Indulge in a sumptuous meal as a part of your experience

4.7/5

(468)

Carol

Dec 2025

Verified booking

5/5

We did the cruise plus gourmet BBQ lunch and farm show and enjoyed it very much. The ship itself was lovely and it was interesting to see the workings of the steam engine. The views along the very smooth trip were absolutely stunning. The lunch was so good, especially the lamb and beef, so tender and moist. The sweets were equally delicious, blueberry cheesecake and mint choc mousse, so yummy. The farm show was short but good. The young handler explained everything about the farm, sheep and dogs very well and her demonstrations were good too. It was great seeing her dog Mist round up the sheep on a very steep paddock. All in all a fabulous afternoon

Daniel

Nov 2025

Verified booking

5/5

The cruise and BBQ dinner was a truly wonderful experience. Dinner was exceptional with plenty to go around, the Venison and Pork were our favourites and desert was plentiful. We had great service at the restaurant with a million dollar view. The sheep dog show was also excellent. The return cruise from Queenstown was truly spectacular, a beautiful old steamboat. The staff on board were professional and friendly. Definitely recommend this cruise when in Queenstown.

Francisca

Nov 2025

Verified booking

5/5

It was our last day in Queenstown and we were very grateful that someone suggested this attraction. It truly was fantastic. Huge thank you to the staff that made this trip so lovely - the musicion on the boat (to and from the venue), staff on board, the wonderful waiters at the restaurant, the first rate chefs right through to the farming dog (Mia) and her knowledge and ability to carry out every instruction gi ven by her owner. Thank you!!!!

Take a scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran across Lake Wakatipu, with views of Queenstown's alpine peaks.

Combine your cruise with a guided tour of Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you'll meet farm animals and enjoy freshly baked afternoon tea.

Choose to add a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak Farm to your cruise, where you'll dine with lakeside views in a peaceful high-country setting.

Add a small-group horse trek to your cruise, riding through Walter Peak's rolling farmland, led by an experienced guide.

Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu’s unique Z-shape causes its water level to rise and fall rhythmically every 25 minutes—local legend calls it the heartbeat of a giant.

Cruise on Lake Wakatipu

Live commentary on the cruise

Walter Peak Farm Tour (if option selected)

Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm

English-speaking guide

Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show

Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Meal (if option selected)

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

Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show

Walter Peak Horse Trekking Tour (if option selected)

45-minute horse trekking tour

Nature guide

Small group of up to 6 people

Freshly baked morning or afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)

Safety helmet and wet weather clothing

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.

4.7
468 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.
368
80
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Guests from Australia, United States, United Kingdom and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Cendra
Dec 2025
Verified booking
5/5
My wife and I had the absolute pleasure of joining the Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Steam Cruise combined with the farm tour, and it was truly one of the highlights of our Queenstown trip. Cruise Experience The journey aboard the historic steamship was breathtaking. Gliding across the sparkling waters of Lake Wakatipu with panoramic mountain views all around felt like stepping back in time while enjoying the beauty of modern Queenstown. The atmosphere was peaceful yet full of character, and the 100-year-old vessel itself is a marvel to experience. Farm Tour Highlights Once we arrived at the farm, the tour was both fun and educational. We loved the chance to meet and greet the friendly farm animals, and the sheep shearing demonstration was fascinating to watch. The shepherd dog show was another standout—seeing the dogs’ skill and precision in action navigating a flock of sheeps was impressive and memorable. Tea Time Treats The afternoon tea was a delightful surprise. The freshly baked scones served with strawberry jam were simply delicious, and paired perfectly with a warm drink after the farm activities. It added a cozy, homely touch to the whole experience. Overall Value The entire journey took just over three hours, but every moment was packed with enjoyment. From the scenic cruise to the interactive farm tour and the tasty tea break, it was excellent value for money. We both felt it was worth every cent and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Queenstown. Final Thoughts This experience combines history, nature, and authentic Kiwi hospitality in one seamless package. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or solo, the Earnslaw Steam Cruise and Farm Tour is a must-do. We left with wonderful memories and smiles on our faces—an unforgettable day in Queenstown.
Carol
Dec 2025
Verified booking
5/5
We did the cruise plus gourmet BBQ lunch and farm show and enjoyed it very much. The ship itself was lovely and it was interesting to see the workings of the steam engine. The views along the very smooth trip were absolutely stunning. The lunch was so good, especially the lamb and beef, so tender and moist. The sweets were equally delicious, blueberry cheesecake and mint choc mousse, so yummy. The farm show was short but good. The young handler explained everything about the farm, sheep and dogs very well and her demonstrations were good too. It was great seeing her dog Mist round up the sheep on a very steep paddock. All in all a fabulous afternoon
Catherine
Dec 2025
Verified booking
5/5
Amazing way to spend a couple hours. We ended up on this cruise due to a cancellation of other plans. It was fantastic. The ship itself could be a whole 2 hours to explore with the engines and cafe. We appreciated that there was a majority of indoor seating with some outdoor areas. A really lovely time to be sure.
Neville
Dec 2025
Verified booking
5/5
The boat is amazing for being 111 years old and being able to get into the engine room to see it working is great. The staff are very friendly and helpfull. The cruise gave a different perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Brett
Dec 2025
Verified booking
4/5
This historic stem boat is an amazing piece of machinery. Our grandchildren were mesmorised by the engine which you can walk into for a closer look. The views from the lake were spectacular as you cruise to Walter Peak.

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard a vintage steamship or sleek catamaran, then tailor your journey with a farm tour, lakeside BBQ, or horseback ride.

Getting started

Head to the Steamer Wharf in Queenstown to board your vessel—either the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown. Arrive at least 20 minutes early. Your ticket will be scanned before boarding; no ID checks required. Security is minimal but bags may be checked.

What to expect

Lake Wakatipu: New Zealand’s third-largest lake, shaped like a lightning bolt, framed by the Remarkables mountain range. Known for its mysterious ‘tidal rise’ every 25 minutes.

Cruise across the lake: Sail past forested hills, alpine peaks, and quiet bays. The TSS Earnslaw features a working steam engine and piano lounge. The Spirit of Queenstown offers an open-air top deck with panoramic views.

Extras

Walter Peak Farm: Step ashore for a hands-on tour of a working high country farm. Feed sheep, meet Highland cattle, and see sheepdogs in action.

BBQ at the Homestead: Enjoy a gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at a lakefront restaurant with local meats, fresh salads, and decadent desserts.

Horse trek: Join a guided ride through scenic paddocks and rolling hills, suitable for all levels. Helmets and instruction provided.

After your visit, cruise back across the lake with fresh views of Queenstown and the surrounding peaks.

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.

What’s not allowed

Safety is a priority so the horse trekking experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft) and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb).

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 Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, so it may be challenging for wheelchair users. Those with impaired mobility should consider their comfort level before participating.

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.

The horse trekking tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels, including first-time riders.

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 is scheduled to undergo annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.

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