Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Cruise

4.8/5(1,103)

Rosemary J

Group

Verified booking

5 days ago

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

Last week

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

2 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.

Harold B

Couple

Verified booking

2 days ago

This was a highlight -- one of many -- from our month-long Australia and New Zealand trip. The TSS Earnshaw is a throwback -- a 100+ year-old coal-fired steam vessel that is impeccably kept. Though we enjoyed the Walter Park Farm and Homestead, to which the Earnslaw transported used us, the sail, itself, was every bit as memorable. GOOD SHOW, EARNSLAW AND CREW! THANK YOU.

Samantha J

Group

Verified booking

Last week

Everything! Easy check in, inside was nice and warm and you had the option to buy food and drink. Wasn't extremely crowded which was nice, could move around with ease and look at the working of the boat. Everyone was kind and had a smile. The lady on the piano was kind, willing to have a chat and played wonderfully. Would definitely recommend

Sandra F

Group

Verified booking

5 days ago

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.

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.

1,103 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 30 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Janice C
Group
Verified booking
Sep 2026
the cruise was wonderful, got time to tim to take in the full beauty that nature has to offer, the boat was super interesting, been able to see something that was built so long ago and working was a privilege. The restaurant lunch was amazing n so was the building.
Diana S
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
I loved the old steam ship. You were able to see the engine room and walk all around the ship. Also old school piano player engaged with everyone and even called some people out of the audience that wanted to sing with her. Absolutely lovely. Borrás were stunning
Sharmen Z
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
Really enjoyed our crew. The ships Old World charm. It's been kept to its original design. We had access to everywhere and loved being up in the Bow. There were even blankets available when it got chilly. Thank you for an enjoyable time. Donny and Sharmen Z
Helen A
Couple
Verified booking
Sep 2026
Great views of the sheer mountains, lake & the commentary about the history of the Earnslaw. Got some great views of Fernhill from the lake where my son has just bought his first home.
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.

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