Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu
About this activity
Highlights
- Sail aboard the historic, coal-powered TSS Earnslaw on a scenic cruise
- Admire spectacular alpine scenery from the vantage point of the lake's waters
- Explore the engine room below decks where stokers feed the roaring coal fire
- Discover a fascinating collection of historical photos in the small onboard museum
Full description
The leisurely 90-minute cruise across Lake Whakatipu showcases some of Queenstown’s spectacular alpine scenery while offering you plenty of time to explore a piece of Queenstown’s living history – the over one hundred year-old TSS Earnslaw.
Listen to engaging commentary from your experienced captain who will highlight points of interest throughout your cruise. View the collection of historical photos in the small onboard museum and check out the skipper’s wheelhouse. Visit the engine room to feel the heat of the giant steam engines at work and see the stokers shovel coal into the glowing fireboxes. Soak in the dramatic mountain views surrounding Lake Wakatipu and relax at the cafe where you can enjoy a wine or beer and snacks are also available for purchase.
You can choose to undertake just the cruise, or combine it with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a guided farm tour, horse trek, eco experience or our famous gourmet barbecue lunch/dinner. Please note that we have separate listings for these combo options.
Included / Excluded
- Sightseeing cruise
- Knowledgeable guide commentary
- • Food and drinks
Meeting point
Start Location
Steamer Wharf 88 Beach Street, Queenstown, New Zealand
Important information
Know before you book
- • Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
- • Cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund
- • If you require more information on the wheelchair accessibility on the TSS Earnslaw, please do not hesitate to ask
- • Parking is not available, so please leave your car at your accommodation
- • Non-slip shoes are recommended
Know before you go
- • Cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or a full refund
- • Non-slip shoes are recommended
Cancellation policy
Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Reviews
The Day trip was absolutely fantastic and Brendan our guide was brilliant! I left my umbrella on the bus unfortunately but they are keeping it for me when I go back to Queenstown. Brendan had a great knowledge of the area.. we did lots of stops more than anticipated because everyone on the bus was super organised at getting OFF taking photos and getting back on in a timely manner .good lunch. When we got on the boat initially we were a bit worried that we wouldn’t have good visibility but the whole front area opened up after we got on the water.
enjoyable and interesting activity. got to learnt more about the glowworms
Awesome trip! Definitely worth the long drive it was absolutely stunning! The guide was also very friendly and informative! A must see in New Zealand.