Champagne Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Te Anau

Imagine gliding across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau aboard a beautifully preserved 1930s sailing yacht called “Faith.” For around 90 minutes, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise that combines stunning Fiordland landscapes with the pleasure of champagne, canapés, and insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. Priced at about $100.62 per person, this experience is designed for those seeking a classy yet relaxed escape, without the need for hiking or strenuous activity.

What we love most about this cruise is how effortlessly it combines luxury with authentic natural beauty. The hosts, Adam and Meg, are lauded for their warm welcome and passion for the boat’s story—adding a personal touch that elevates the experience. Plus, the chance to enjoy sunset views over the Southern Alps makes for unforgettable photographs and peaceful moments.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cruise is limited to 16 travelers, which makes for an intimate experience but also requires some planning—particularly booking about 64 days in advance, given its popularity. This cruise is ideal for romantic couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a scenic, hassle-free way to enjoy Lake Te Anau without breaking a sweat or rushing through the day.

Key Points

• Elegant and Relaxing: A scenic, sunset cruise on a vintage yacht with canapés and champagne.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, sharing engaging stories and history.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Small group size ensures a personal, intimate experience.
• Stunning Views: Marvel at rolling hills, dense forests, and the Southern Alps reflected on tranquil lake waters.
• Ideal Timing: The 6:00 pm start aligns perfectly with sunset, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Excellent Value: Combining scenic beauty, good food, and expert narration for a well-rounded experience.

A Detailed Look at the Champagne Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Te Anau

Setting the Scene: What’s Included and Who It’s For

This cruise is a wonderful way to enjoy Te Anau’s natural beauty without exerting yourself. Priced at just over $100, it offers more than just a boat ride—it’s an opportunity to unwind, indulge, and take in the scenery in style. For that price, you get a 1.5-hour cruise aboard the historic “Faith,” with live commentary illuminating the area’s sights, plus canapés and drinks—from champagne to non-alcoholic options—served directly on deck.

The small group size (no more than 16 travelers) means you’ll be able to relax and enjoy a personalized experience, often commented on as warm and welcoming by previous guests. The timing at 6:00 pm ensures you’ll catch the sunset, which is spectacular as the fading light casts a golden glow over the mountains and forest.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The cruise begins at the Fiordland Historic Cruises meeting point at Lakefront Drive, where you’ll meet your friendly guides. After boarding the impeccably maintained “Faith,” the boat gently departs, heading toward the sheltered coves of Lake Te Anau. During the cruise, guides will point out landmarks and share stories about the area’s history and natural features—worth listening to if you’re a fan of local lore or just love good storytelling.

One of the most praised aspects from reviews is the anchor drop in a remote bay, where the engine is turned off, and you’re invited to relax with tea, coffee, beer, wine, champagne, or non-alcoholic beverages. Guests often mention how peaceful it is to be floating in a quiet bay, listening to the sounds of nature, with the water lapping softly against the hull.

The crew chooses a remote bay as the anchor point, making the experience feel exclusive and away from the hustle. Guests consistently mention the beautiful photo opportunities—the reflections of mountains in calm waters, the lush greenery of the surrounding forests, and, of course, the sunset over the Southern Alps.

Drinking and Dining: What’s On Offer

The canapés are a highlight, providing tasty bites to accompany your drinks—perfect for grazing while soaking up the scenery. The drinks menu includes champagne, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options, giving everyone a choice to suit their mood. Multiple reviews mention the “flowing drinks and canapés,” emphasizing how well the food and beverages complement the relaxing setting.

The live commentary adds an educational touch, with guides sharing insights about the boat’s storied past and the area’s geography. One guest even noted hearing Adam play bagpipes, which added a fun and memorable element to the cruise.

The Sunset Experience: Why It’s Special

Perhaps the most appealing part of this cruise is the timing. The evening departure allows you to witness the sun setting over the Southern Alps, casting a warm glow across the lake. Guests have raved about how “beautiful” and “peaceful” the scenery is during sunset, making it a perfect moment for photography or just quiet reflection.

The changing light transforms the landscape, highlighting the lush greenery and rugged peaks. Many reviews mention the stunning views, with one guest calling it a “relaxing and scenic boat ride” that left them feeling rejuvenated.

The Crew and Guides: Knowledge, Passion, and Personal Touch

Guests frequently praise the guides, especially Adam and Meg, for their warm welcome, engaging stories, and genuine passion for sharing the story of the boat and the area. One review mentions that Adam is eager to continue the vessel’s legacy, adding a sense of history and personal connection to the cruise.

The crew’s knowledge about the flora and fauna enhances the experience, providing context that makes the scenery even more meaningful. The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, allowing travelers to ask questions and connect with each other.

The Experience’s Value: Is It Worth It?

While $100 isn’t pocket change, many guests feel the value is excellent given the luxury experience, stunning scenery, and personalized service. Compared to longer or more active excursions in Fiordland, this cruise offers a relaxed, elegant alternative that can fit into a busy schedule or serve as a beautiful ending to a day of exploring.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

The main consideration is booking in advance, as this experience is popular and tends to fill up about 64 days ahead. Weather can also impact the cruise—if conditions turn rough or stormy, the cruise might be canceled, but the operator offers full refunds or rescheduling.

Given the small group size, availability might be limited, so planning ahead is advisable. Also, since it’s a sunset cruise, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with limited daylight viewing if weather proves unpredictable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples seeking a memorable evening, small groups of friends, or anyone who wants a luxurious yet relaxed way to enjoy Lake Te Anau. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate stories and history, as guides share fascinating details about the vessel and surroundings.

If you’re looking for a scenic, stress-free experience with excellent food and drinks, this cruise hits the mark. It’s also suitable for those who prefer not to hike or be outdoors for extended periods, but still want to enjoy Fiordland’s natural beauty.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children?
This experience is designed for travelers aged 18 and older due to alcohol service. However, families with older children might still enjoy the scenery and boat ride, but check with the provider for specific policies.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, as it can get chilly in the evening, especially on the water. A light jacket or sweater is recommended. Comfortable shoes are best for walking on the boat.

Can I bring my own drinks or food?
The cruise provides drinks and canapés, so bringing your own isn’t necessary. For special dietary needs, it’s best to advise during booking.

Is the cruise accessible for people with mobility issues?
As the experience involves boarding a historic vessel, accessibility details aren’t specified. Contact the operator beforehand to discuss any mobility concerns.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsuitable, it might be canceled, but the operator will offer a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 64 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot on this popular cruise.

Final Thoughts

The Champagne Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Te Anau offers a rare blend of natural beauty, history, and understated luxury. It’s ideal for those looking to enjoy the spectacular scenery with minimal effort but maximum comfort. The combination of stunning sunset views, engaging guides, and delicious food and drinks makes it a memorable highlight of any Te Anau visit.

If you value intimate experiences with a personal touch, prefer relaxed scenic outings over strenuous activities, and want a taste of local history and hospitality, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, capture great photos, and enjoy the peace of the Fiordland wilderness as the day winds down.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a calming end to your day, you’ll find that this cruise delivers a genuine, heartfelt encounter with one of New Zealand’s most stunning lakes. Just remember to book early, dress warmly, and bring your camera for those unforgettable sunset shots.