Queenstown

15 Best Lake Wakatipu Cruises

The lake crossings compared: the TSS Earnslaw, a 1912 coal-fired steamship still on schedule, scenic ninety-minute loops and the Walter Peak runs that end at a gourmet barbecue on a high-country farm. The steamship is the same age as the Titanic and having a better century.

1.Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise

Experience scenic lake cruises, a gourmet BBQ, and lively farm demonstrations at Walter Peak in Queenstown—perfect for food lovers and families alike.

Most Popular★ 4.8

“Would highly recommend this trip. Boat commentary was great and the Gourment BBQ was fab. You certainly don’t come away hungry and lots of options for food. Farm show was interesting as well.”

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2.Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes)

Discover Queenstown’s stunning Lake Wakatipu with a 90-minute scenic cruise featuring expert guides, breathtaking views, and great value.

★ 5.0

“A great tour of the local lake to catch a glimpse of how the well to do live in Queenstown. Beautiful houses all along the lake shore, great views of the mountains which is par for the course in Queenstown. Skipper was very informative and…”

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3.Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu

Experience Queenstown’s iconic steamship, TSS Earnslaw, on a scenic Lake Wakatipu cruise. Enjoy historic sights, mountain views, and onboard charm for $67.

★ 4.6

“Loved the trip on the boat and the chance to see the mechanics in action. Commentary was good and Tony the singer added to the whole trip with his songs. Recommended”

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4.Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Discover Queenstown’s best with a vintage steamship cruise, sheep farm demonstrations, and a gourmet BBQ. An authentic and scenic New Zealand experience.

★ 5.0

“Exactly as promised. Definitely boom this steamship and not the newer boat. A different, fun experience. Go see the coal / engine room as well. There are some nice spots to sit below outside and feel the breeze and take in the beauty. It was…”

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6.Queenstown: Lake Whakatipu Boat Trip

Discover Queenstown's stunning Lake Whakatipu on a 1.5-hour boat cruise. Enjoy panoramic views, expert commentary, and a relaxed vibe for all ages.

★ 4.7

“Fantastic. We enjoyed the cruise and the commentary. The audio and acoustic can be improved for an even better experience by the guests.”

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7.Dinner at Walter Peak High Country Farm and Cruise from Queenstown

Experience a scenic lake cruise, a delicious buffet dinner, and a lively farm demonstration at Walter Peak, all in one memorable Queenstown outing.

★ 4.5

“Must do for anyone visiting. The farmhouse and gardens are absolutely beautiful. The meal itself was amazing, very fresh and tasty with lots of options. To top it off, the Steamship cruise was incredible.”

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8.Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

Discover Queenstown’s charm with a scenic lake cruise aboard a vintage steamship and a lively farm visit featuring animal encounters, demonstrations, and high tea.

★ 4.5

“We had a wonderful time - the steamship was awesome, full of history and cool things to do. The food on board was excellent (as was the coffee). It wasn’t too crowded, was very organized, and the farm tour and tea were very sweet. Had…”

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10.Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

Experience stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables on a 1.5-hour scenic cruise in Queenstown. Perfect for relaxing, photo-taking, and wildlife spotting.

★ 4.7

“Relaxing, funny and beautiful scenery. The kids are kept seperate so you can sip your drink and easily hear the guide. Comfy seats and we learnt a lot about the area!”

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12.Queenstown: Walter Peak Horse Trek & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Experience stunning lake views, gentle horse treks, and afternoon tea on this 3.5-hour Queenstown tour combining a scenic cruise and farm adventure.

★ 4.7

“This was so much fun and well worth money. As someone who has ridden for years it’s always been a dream to ride through terrain like this. You definitely don’t need to know how to ride though, it was a nice slow plod. Followed by…”

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More Lake Wakatipu Cruises

Explore Queenstown

Jet boats, bungy history and Milford Sound up the road.