1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk from Wanaka

Discovering the 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk from Wanaka

If you’re short on time but want a taste of Wanaka’s lakeside beauty, the Ruby Island cruise and walk offers a charming escape. For just under $30 per person, you’ll hop aboard a luxury catamaran at Wanaka’s marina, glide across Lake Wanaka, and enjoy a relaxed walk on Ruby Island. This experience lasts about an hour, making it perfect for families, seniors, or anyone craving a quick yet authentic nature fix.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it is—suitable for all mobility levels—and how it combines comfort with natural beauty. The easy self-guided walk on the island provides picture-perfect views of the lake and mountains, ideal for snapping memorable photos. Plus, the departure point at the Wanaka Marina is straightforward to reach, saving you precious time.

However, one thing to consider is that weather can affect the trip’s availability. The tour depends on good conditions; rain and snowmelt can lead to cancellations, as some reviews noted. Still, the company offers flexible rescheduling or full refunds if weather doesn’t cooperate.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy short, scenic outings with a relaxed pace. Whether you’re traveling with children, seniors, or just want a quick nature break, you’ll find this tour offers a well-balanced mix of comfort, affordability, and scenic charm.

Key Points

• Accessible for all: Suitable for a range of abilities and fitness levels.
• Photogenic stop: Ruby Island offers stunning views and exotic plants.
• Flexible walk: Self-guided, with options to skip if preferred.
• Great value: At around $30, it’s an affordable taste of Wanaka’s natural charm.
• Weather-dependent: Cancellations can happen in poor weather, but options are offered.
• Ideal for families: Short duration and easy access make it perfect for kids and seniors.

An In-Depth Look at the Ruby Island Experience

The Departure and Boat Ride

Your journey begins at the Wanaka Marina, a convenient starting point located at 100 Ardmore Street. You’ll board a comfortable luxury catamaran that promises a smooth ride across the lake. We appreciated how the boat handled the weather, even on less-than-ideal days, with one reviewer noting, “the boat handled it well and we had a great familiarisation trip,” despite rain and snowmelt.

The approximately 30-minute cruise provides stunning views of Lake Wanaka, often called the “jewel of Wanaka.” This lake’s colors are captivating—deep blues contrasted by the mountain backdrop—and the boat’s steady pace allows plenty of time to absorb the scenery. We loved the way the boat’s large windows and open deck offered panoramic views, perfect for photography.

Ruby Island: The Jewel in the Lake

Once on Ruby Island, most of the tour involves a self-guided walk. The island itself is quite small but packed with visual interest. An eclectic mix of native and exotic plants creates a lovely foreground for photographs, with vibrant colors and textures. One traveler described the island as “very photogenic,” emphasizing the variety of plant life and the picturesque setting.

The walk to the lookout points is easy and accessible, making it a great choice for families with children, seniors, or anyone with mobility considerations. While the walk isn’t lengthy—most reviews mention around 40 minutes on the island—it’s enough to enjoy the scenery and take stunning photos without feeling rushed.

The Highlights

What truly makes this tour stand out is the combination of ease and scenic value. The trip offers a relaxing way to experience Wanaka’s lakeside environment without the need for strenuous activity. The viewpoints from the island are perfect for capturing the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a favorite among photography enthusiasts.

A reviewer mentioned, “Tim the operator was very informative and friendly,” which highlights the helpful and approachable nature of the staff. Even if the island walk is quick, it’s packed with scenic moments and opportunities for quiet reflection or family photos.

The Value for Money

At just under $30, this tour offers excellent value. The ticket includes all fees and taxes, and the boat ride plus island walk make for a compact yet satisfying outing. Reviews suggest that most travelers find it worthwhile, with some noting that “the experience was good for the price,” and appreciating the friendly staff and beautiful scenery.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

A couple of reviews touched on weather-related cancellations, which is worth keeping in mind. As the tour is weather-dependent, rainy or snowy days can lead to cancellations, with options for a different date or a full refund. This flexibility can be reassuring if you’re traveling during unpredictable seasons.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who want a short, scenic outing without too much physical exertion. It’s particularly well-suited for families, senior travelers, or anyone looking for a relaxing nature experience. If you’re in Wanaka for a quick visit or limited time, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of the lake and island environment.

Final Thoughts: Is the Ruby Island Cruise for You?

The 1-Hour Ruby Island Cruise and Walk offers a wonderful taste of Wanaka’s natural beauty—affordable, accessible, and scenic. The boat ride across Lake Wanaka is smooth and comfortable, and the island’s walk is a gentle way to connect with nature without the need for strenuous hiking. You’ll love the views that are perfect for photography and the friendly guides who make the experience even more enjoyable.

It’s especially good for families, seniors, or travelers seeking a relaxing, short activity that packs in plenty of visual appeal. While weather can affect the plans, the tour’s flexible policies and scenic value make it a solid choice for a quick outdoor escape.

If you’re after a simple, enjoyable lake adventure that showcases Wanaka’s charms without breaking the bank, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, including the boat ride and island walk.

Where does the tour start?
The departure point is Lake Wanaka Cruises at 100 Ardmore Street, Wanaka, at the lakefront.

Is the walk on Ruby Island difficult?
No, the walk is described as easy and accessible, suitable for most abilities and fitness levels.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the boat cruise, all fees and taxes, and the self-guided walk on Ruby Island.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are possible, with options for a different date or full refund.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour suitable for seniors?
Absolutely, the tour’s easy pace and accessible walk make it suitable for seniors.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is typically booked about 14 days in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Is there a guide on the island?
The island walk is self-guided, but the crew is helpful and informative during the boat cruise.

By choosing this boat and walk tour, you’re opting for a relaxed, scenic, and family-friendly way to appreciate Wanaka’s lakeside environment without fuss. It’s a simple yet effective way to capture the essence of this beautiful corner of New Zealand.