Combos

Combo (Save 5%) (Save 5%): Milford Sound & TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise Experience

Walter Peak High Country Farm with steamboat on Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand.

Tourists walking along a path at Walter Peak High Country Farm with scenic views.

Cruise ship sailing through Milford Sound with mountain views.

Tourists feeding Highland cattle at Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Duration

1 hr 30 min - 2 hr

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Audio guide

Enhance your experience with multilingual audio guide

Pickup available

4.8/5

(1,856)

Thomas

Feb 2026

Verified booking

The trip was lovely. Traveling on a catamaran is smoother than on a ship with a bow. The staff were very friendly and attentive, thank you. One important note: the captain provided lots of interesting explanations. As the organizer, please note that these cannot always be translated in a way that is understandable to an international audience. An audio guide would be useful and important!

Krzysztof

Mar 2026

Verified booking

We enjoyed everything, from the drive to Milford Sound to the cruise. The captain had a great sense of humour and gave detailed descriptions of the area. We saw seals sunning on rocks, dolphins swimming by the boat, and beautiful waterfalls up close! We also had complimentary hot chocolate, coffe, and tea. And we also had great weather, blue skies, no rain! All in all it was the perfect cruise!

Stephen

Jan 2026

Verified booking

A very enjoyable cruise on a beautiful lake with magnificent views all around. I love a working machine so the high spot for me was access to the engine room and boiler room of a coal fired steamship. There were clear diagrammatic explanations to facilitate understanding. A rare and treasured experience for me and an absolute recommendation for those who share my love of both machines and nature.

Antoine

Feb 2026

Verified booking

Milford Sound was absolutely incredible. I loved every moment of it. The landscapes are unreal, with stunning waterfalls pouring down the cliffs all around us. We were lucky enough to see dolphins swimming near the boat, which made the experience even more special. The atmosphere is so peaceful and powerful at the same time. Easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. 100% worth it.

Mar 2026

Verified booking

A splendid cruise down the Milford Sound. The commentary was good with great local insights but no excessive chatter. The boat was clean and smooth with excellent staff who made you feel valued. We actually arrived too early as there was space on an earlier cruise we were moved onto that one at our request. Nothing seemed too much trouble. A great excursion.

Eric

Mar 2026

Verified booking

The opportunity to travel on this boat that has been kept original and well maintained, and is a piece of our New Zealand history was very rewarding. The Captains commentary and historical insights was informative and interesting. For STEAM ENGINE enthusiasts, the access to the engine room and see the two Triple Expansion engines close-up is a must.

Save with this combo and enjoy two iconic New Zealand cruises, Milford Sound and Lake Wakatipu, with scenic views and expert insights.

Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw with live commentary, alpine views, and full accessibility, ideal for a relaxed heritage experience.

Explore Milford Sound’s dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife on a 1-hour 45-minute cruise with decks, lounge access, and complimentary tea and coffee.

Expert commentary and a multilingual audio guide app across both cruises ensure a seamless, informative, and immersive journey.

Fun fact: Lake Wakatipu’s water level rises and falls every 25 minutes; locals call it the “heartbeat of a giant.”

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

90-minute TSS Earnslaw cruise across Lake Wakatipu

Live commentary on the cruise

Wheelchair accessible

Milford Sound Cruise

1 hr 45min Milford Sound cruise

Expert commentary

Complimentary tea & coffee

Access to outdoor viewing decks

Indoor heated lounge area

Multi-language audio guide app

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Milford Sound Cruise

Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)

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

1,856 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 35 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Tehani
Mar 2026
Verified booking
I had a great experience on the Milford Sound cruise. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking from start to finish. The tall cliffs, dramatic mountains, and lush green landscapes created a spectacular view that felt almost unreal. Being able to admire this unique environment from the water made the experience even more special. One of the highlights for me was seeing the beautiful waterfalls flowing down the cliffs. The boat approached some of them closely, which allowed us to really appreciate their power and beauty. Feeling the fresh mist in the air and hearing the sound of the water made the moment unforgettable. I also really enjoyed the commentary during the cruise. It was interesting and helped me learn more about the geology and history of Milford Sound. Overall, it was a relaxing and memorable experience that I would definitely recommend.
Krzysztof
Mar 2026
Verified booking
We enjoyed everything, from the drive to Milford Sound to the cruise. The captain had a great sense of humour and gave detailed descriptions of the area. We saw seals sunning on rocks, dolphins swimming by the boat, and beautiful waterfalls up close! We also had complimentary hot chocolate, coffe, and tea. And we also had great weather, blue skies, no rain! All in all it was the perfect cruise!
Mr
Mar 2026
Verified booking
A splendid cruise down the Milford Sound. The commentary was good with great local insights but no excessive chatter. The boat was clean and smooth with excellent staff who made you feel valued. We actually arrived too early as there was space on an earlier cruise we were moved onto that one at our request. Nothing seemed too much trouble. A great excursion.
Eric
Mar 2026
Verified booking
The opportunity to travel on this boat that has been kept original and well maintained, and is a piece of our New Zealand history was very rewarding. The Captains commentary and historical insights was informative and interesting. For STEAM ENGINE enthusiasts, the access to the engine room and see the two Triple Expansion engines close-up is a must.
Penny
Mar 2026
Verified booking
I have been going on the Earnslaw since I was five years old. It is still one of my favourite things to do and I always recommend it to tourists. There is nothing like being out on the lake and knowing the history of the Earnslaw makes it so special. The staff are always so lovely too.

Save 5% with this combo and experience two of New Zealand’s most iconic cruises, Lake Wakatipu and Milford Sound, each with expert commentary.

Getting started

Begin your adventure at Queenstown’s Steamer Wharf for your Lake Wakatipu cruise; arrive 20 minutes early for ticket scanning and minimal bag checks. For Milford Sound, head to the designated pier, present your ticket, and join a brief safety briefing before boarding.

What to expect

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Cruise New Zealand’s third-largest lake, renowned for its lightning-bolt shape and the Remarkables mountain backdrop. Choose between the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran for a journey across forested hills and alpine peaks.

Features:

TSS Earnslaw cruise: Sail across Lake Wakatipu on a 90-minute journey aboard the iconic steamship with live commentary throughout.

Scenic lake views: Take in alpine landscapes and serene waters as you cruise, with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Accessible experience: Wheelchair friendly facilities ensure a comfortable and inclusive cruise for all guests.

Milford Sound Cruise

Sail through glacier-carved fjords, surrounded by sheer cliffs and lush rainforests in one of New Zealand’s most celebrated natural wonders. The cruise reveals the dramatic landscape shaped over millions of years.

Features:

Stirling and Bowen Falls: Marvel at waterfalls plunging from towering heights, a testament to the region’s rainfall and geology.

Mitre Peak: Capture views of this sharply rising peak, a signature icon of Milford Sound.

Wildlife spotting: Watch for native seals, dolphins, and, if you’re lucky, rare Fiordland crested penguins along the shoreline.

Onboard comfort: Relax with access to outdoor viewing decks, an indoor heated lounge, and complimentary tea and coffee.

By booking this combo, you enjoy seamless planning, expert-led insights, and a cost-saving way to experience two legendary South Island waterways in one trip.

What to bring

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Bring covered shoes or boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing or jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera.

Pack your medications—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.

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.

Milford Sound Cruise

Bring covered shoes or boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing or jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera.

Carry warm, weather-appropriate clothing and a waterproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly on the water.

Pack your medications—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.

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.

Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.

For the horse trekking experience, guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft), and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb) are not permitted.

Milford Sound Cruise

Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.

Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.

Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.

For the horse trekking experience, guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft), and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb) are not permitted.

Accessibility

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

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, which 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.

Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.

There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.

Milford Sound Cruise

Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.

There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.

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, which 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.

Additional information

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise

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.

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.

Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.

Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Restrooms are available on board.

The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.

Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.

Milford Sound Cruise

Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.

Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.

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.

Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

Restrooms are available on board.

The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.

Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.