Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

4.8/5(997)

David C

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

Exceptional cruise, lunch and farm show. A delightful cruise across the lake, smooth, warm and comfortable. The buffet lunch was exceptional, plentiful and very tasty. The sheep Roundup by Mia (super clever short haired Border Collie) in conjunction with her handler Josh was quite amazing.

Penny W

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

Absolutely awesome experience - the cruise was stunning, the gourmet BBQ was THE BEST EVER, the views from the homestead picture-book breath-taking, and we loved Kim the border collie!🥰

Ruisi W

Family

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

TSS Earnslaw Cruises and Walter Peak delivered an experience that was both relaxing and unforgettable. Sharing it with my husband and our 2-year-old made it even more meaningful. The cruise itself felt like stepping back in time, with the charm of the historic steamship perfectly complemented by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Wakatipu. What impressed us most was how family-friendly the entire day was. Our toddler was entertained throughout, whether watching the lake, exploring the boat, or taking in the sights at Walter Peak. The farm visit was a highlight, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with New Zealand’s rural heritage in a way that was enjoyable and accessible for all ages. Every detail felt thoughtfully planned, creating an experience that was seamless, authentic and memorable. We would happily recommend it to families looking for a unique day out.

Gabrielle R

Family

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

This was a fantastic experience! We did the bbq option, which starts in the bbq. The tables are pre-set and you get what youre given in terms of your tables location, which was a bit sad as we were wanting one near a window. That was soon forgotten when the food was opened. It's a buffet, with SO many incredibly delicious options. You are spoilt for choice. After eating there is a short time for a farm show to watch a sheepdog herd. I wish this time was a little longer, because the boat returned quite soon. The boat trip itself was fantastic. Incredible views, views of the engine room and gears and an onboard museum room. Great for all ages and was pram friendly.

Karen B

Couple

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

What a great experience. The boat ride down the lake was spectacular , the boat was very well maintained with a lot of history and love put into the maintenance, also being able to walk down stairs to see the steam motors working. The lunch was the best we have had , every type of food and diet was catered for, was well prepared and plenty of different choices. Great and delicious desserts to finish. Then a short walk to the sheep show. First the rounding up of the sheep with the very well trained sheep dog, and a demonstration of shearing the sheep. Well done what a great day!

Helen C

Couple

Verified booking

3 weeks ago

This was the fourth time we have made this trip to the magnificent Walter Peak Ststion on the majestic Earnslaw. It always exceeds expectations for the superb Standard of everything in every way.- service, scenery , food, just everything- it's hard to beat. For my husband, with a love for steam engines, that sniff of the coal being shovelled into the furnace and hearing the toot of the whistle are a real joy. Everything is so gracious and stylish but captures so much history at the same time all in an exquisite setting. Worth every cent. We'll be back.

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

Walter Peak Garden to Table experience (if option selected)

Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu

Guided tour of the kitchen gardens with produce tasting

Native flora & conservation walk

Opportunity to plant a native tree or shrub

Garden-to-table light lunch, featuring homegrown & locally sourced ingredients

Expert host commentary throughout the experience

Spirit of Queenstown cruise (if option selected)

1-hour 30-min Spirit of Queenstown cruise

Live commentary by expert skipper

Access to open top deck

Wheelchair accessible

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.

997 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 29 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ruisi W
Family
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
TSS Earnslaw Cruises and Walter Peak delivered an experience that was both relaxing and unforgettable. Sharing it with my husband and our 2-year-old made it even more meaningful. The cruise itself felt like stepping back in time, with the charm of the historic steamship perfectly complemented by the breathtaking scenery of Lake Wakatipu. What impressed us most was how family-friendly the entire day was. Our toddler was entertained throughout, whether watching the lake, exploring the boat, or taking in the sights at Walter Peak. The farm visit was a highlight, offering a wonderful opportunity to connect with New Zealand’s rural heritage in a way that was enjoyable and accessible for all ages. Every detail felt thoughtfully planned, creating an experience that was seamless, authentic and memorable. We would happily recommend it to families looking for a unique day out.
Karen B
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
What a great experience. The boat ride down the lake was spectacular , the boat was very well maintained with a lot of history and love put into the maintenance, also being able to walk down stairs to see the steam motors working. The lunch was the best we have had , every type of food and diet was catered for, was well prepared and plenty of different choices. Great and delicious desserts to finish. Then a short walk to the sheep show. First the rounding up of the sheep with the very well trained sheep dog, and a demonstration of shearing the sheep. Well done what a great day!
Jeannea G
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
What I enjoyed most is the experience of cruising Lake Wakatipu on the historic 1912 TSS Earnslaw to the beautiful Walter Peak Farm! Riding the TSS Earnslaw feels like going back in time, going around the boat having coffee and pastries and seeing all the memorabilias in the gallery. The farm tour was enjoyable too, seeing the cute animals and shearing session. Plus we had good afternoon tea and all the delicious treats to enjoy.
David P
Group
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
The Earnslaw is something special to do while in Queenstown. I have been on this cruise a few times now and each time is special. It doesn't matter if you go during the day or at sunset, like this time. The views are always breathtaking. Put this on your "must do" list when you visit here.
Brenda F
Couple
Verified booking
3 weeks ago
Relaxing ride. Thought it was a bbq lunch in rustic Omgggg it was a bbq banquet. Such tasty food...even the cheeses were stunning. Way tastier than Gondola buffet...was was nice but this was next level. Beautiful outlook too

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