Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

If you’re visiting Queenstown and looking to combine stunning scenery with a taste of authentic rural life, the Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure offers a charming half-day experience. Priced at around $78.67 per person and lasting approximately 3.5 hours, this tour brings together a vintage steamship cruise across Lake Wakatipu with an engaging visit to a high country farm. It’s a popular choice, booked more than ten times daily, and boasts a solid 4.5-star rating from over 400 reviews.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances spectacular vistas with hands-on farm activities. It’s family-friendly, offers plenty of photo opportunities, and includes a delicious afternoon tea—a perfect way to relax after exploring farm animals and enjoying scenic views. Two standout features are the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, which has been operational since 1912, and the lively farm demonstrations, especially the sheepdog shows and sheep shearing.

One consideration worth mentioning: the group size can be up to 100 travelers, which might make the farm visit feel a bit crowded during peak times. Also, when the steamship is undergoing scheduled maintenance (from May 19 to October 1, 2025), a replacement vessel called the Spirit of Queenstown takes its place, ensuring the experience continues smoothly.

This tour suits travelers seeking a relaxed, picturesque day that combines a historic boat ride with a lively farm atmosphere. It’s especially appealing for families, couples, and anyone interested in New Zealand’s farming traditions, scenic lakes, and vintage transportation.

Key Points

• Stunning Lake Views: Cross Lake Wakatipu aboard a historic steamship, enjoying spectacular mountain and water vistas.
• Engaging Farm Experience: Meet farm animals, watch sheepdog demos, and learn about sheep shearing from knowledgeable guides.
• Authentic Atmosphere: The vintage TSS Earnslaw and lively farm demonstrations provide a genuine taste of New Zealand’s rural heritage.
• Relaxing Afternoon Tea: Savor freshly baked scones and treats amid charming farm surroundings.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose between late-morning or afternoon departures to fit your plans.
• Good for All Ages: Family-friendly, with plenty of opportunities for kids to interact with animals and enjoy the scenery.

A Deep Dive into the Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour

The Scenic Journey Begins: Crossing Lake Wakatipu

Starting at the RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre, your adventure kicks off with a scenic cruise across Lake Wakatipu. The TSS Earnslaw, a vintage coal-powered steamship, is an icon of Queenstown—launched in 1912 and still charming visitors today. Although it occasionally undergoes scheduled maintenance (noted from May 19 to October 1, 2025, when the Spirit of Queenstown takes its place), the experience remains largely unchanged.

As you glide across the lake, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and shimmering water. Several reviews highlight the relaxing nature of the boat ride, with many mentioning the old-fashioned charm of the steamship and the live piano music that adds to the atmosphere. One guest noted, “We loved the way the old steamship sang with tunes, and the views just kept giving.”

The Farm Experience: A Heartfelt Look at New Zealand Agriculture

Upon arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you’ll be greeted by friendly hosts and led on a guided farm tour. Here, the focus is on interactive encounters—you get to meet sheep, Highland cattle, goats, and deer. This part of the tour is especially popular; many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Quinn and Ashley, who bring enthusiasm and authenticity to the experience.

One of the standout moments is the sheepdog demonstration, where you see working dogs in action—a lively and educational highlight. Several visitors, like one who said “Ashley’s sheep shearing demo was fascinating,” appreciated how these demonstrations made the farm feel alive and genuine. You can also feed the animals, which kids and adults alike find delightful.

Why the Farm Tour Matters

The farm is designed to showcase New Zealand’s farming traditions. Visitors learn about mustering practices, see sheep shearing, and observe highland cattle and other livestock. Many reviews describe the farm as “charming” and “informative,” with the opportunity to interact with animals making it especially memorable.

Afternoon Tea: A Delicious Climax

After exploring the farm, you’ll enjoy a delicious afternoon tea with scones and baked treats. Several reviews mention the quality and abundance of the food, with some noting that the afternoon tea is served in a serene farm setting—a relaxing way to wind down. One guest humorously remarked about the “puppies and birds” that sometimes hover around the tea area, adding a touch of liveliness.

Returning to Queenstown

The return trip across Lake Wakatipu on the same vintage steamship closes the loop. The views are just as captivating on the way back. Some travelers, like one who described it as a “breathtaking boat ride,” found the entire journey to be calming and picturesque.

Practical Considerations for Travelers

• The tour duration is about 3.5 hours, which makes it a perfect half-day activity. It’s long enough to enjoy the scenery and the farm without feeling rushed.
• Group size can be up to 100 travelers, which might mean some crowded moments during the farm visit, especially if you prefer smaller groups.
• Booking early is advisable since the tour is very popular, especially during peak seasons.
• The cost of about $78.67 is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of a historic cruise, guided farm tour, and afternoon tea—a good value for a memorable experience.
• No hotel pickup is included, so plan to meet at the Queenstown Visitor Centre. It’s near public transport, which makes getting there straightforward.

Authenticity and Value

Throughout the reviews, a common theme is the authenticity of the farm demonstrations and the stunning scenery. Guests often mention how knowledgeable and energetic the guides are, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The historic steamship adds a nostalgic touch, giving you a glimpse into early 20th-century transportation that still operates today.

Many reviewers also comment on the quality of the afternoon tea, with some noting that the scones are fabulous—a small but tasty highlight. The combination of scenic boat ride and farm visit creates a well-rounded day that balances relaxation, education, and fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits families looking for a fun, engaging activity that combines animals and scenery. It’s also ideal for couples wanting a relaxed day with spectacular views and a touch of history. If you’re interested in learning about New Zealand’s farming culture or simply want a beautiful lake cruise with a lively farm visit, this tour fits the bill.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you prefer small-group, highly personalized experiences or dislike large crowds, this tour might feel a bit busy. Also, those seeking an adventure activity like jet boating or ziplining may find this tour more tranquil and less adrenaline-pumping.

The Sum Up

The Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure offers a well-rounded glimpse of New Zealand’s natural beauty and rural life. You’ll love the nostalgic steamship ride with its spectacular mountain scenery and the interactive farm experience that makes the history and traditions of farming come alive. The afternoon tea provides a delightful finish, making the whole journey feel cozy and authentic.

This tour is especially suited for those wanting to escape the crowds and relax, or families eager to meet farm animals and see traditional demonstrations. While it may feel a bit crowded during peak times, the overall value—combining scenery, history, and fun—is hard to beat in Queenstown.

If you’re after a family-friendly half-day that blends scenic beauty with authentic farm life, this adventure checks all the boxes. It’s a great way to experience Queenstown beyond the adrenaline rush, offering a peaceful, engaging, and memorable slice of New Zealand.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, this tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to meet at the Queenstown Visitor Centre, which is near public transportation.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour is approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including the lake cruise, farm tour, and afternoon tea.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor walking and variable weather is recommended. Bring a jacket if it’s cool and a hat if the sun is out.

Can I choose a different departure time?
Yes, you can select from late-morning or afternoon departures to fit your schedule.

What happens if the steamship is under maintenance?
When the TSS Earnslaw is unavailable, a replacement vessel, the Spirit of Queenstown, takes its place, ensuring the cruise experience continues smoothly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Absolutely. Kids enjoy meeting the animals, watching sheepdog demonstrations, and exploring the farm. Many reviews mention how much children love the experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes. Guests often highlight the guides’ energy, friendliness, and expertise, which adds a lot to the overall experience.

What is the value of this tour?
Given the inclusion of a historic boat ride, farm tour, demonstrations, and afternoon tea, the price offers good value for a full half-day of memorable activities.

This tour combines the best of Queenstown’s natural scenery with a lively introduction to rural life, making it an experience you’re unlikely to forget. Whether you’re a lover of scenery, animals, or history, this adventure offers something special for everyone.