TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise – Lake Wakatipu Queenstown
Updated: 11 th February 2026
TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise – Lake Wakatipu Queenstown
Steamship Cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak
Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, departing from central Queenstown. This 90-minute scenic steamship journey combines alpine lake views, engine room access and the option to visit Walter Peak High Country Farm for a classic farm experience or gourmet lakeside dining.
Daily departures. Cruise-only and farm tour packages available.
Scenic Cruise to Walter Peak Farm from Queenstown
TSS Earnslaw Steamship Cruise to Walter Peak – Queenstown
Experience a scenic 90-minute cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, departing daily from central Queenstown. Built in 1912, this iconic coal-fired steamship is still in full working order, offering passengers access to the original engine room and panoramic alpine views throughout the journey.
Upon arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm, choose from a range of experiences including a guided farm demonstration, gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead, horse trekking, or scenic cycling.
The BBQ dining experience features fresh local salads, seasonal vegetables and premium meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie, followed by artisan breads, cheeses and desserts — all served against the backdrop of Lake Wakatipu’s mountain scenery.
With multiple daily departures, the TSS Earnslaw offers flexible cruise-only and cruise-plus-farm packages, making it one of Queenstown’s most iconic and versatile experiences.
Select your preferred TSS Earnslaw cruise or Walter Peak experience below and secure your seats online.
TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship Cruises
Walter Peak High Country Farm Tours
Price: Adults: $115 pp – Children $58
Duration: 1 hour 30 mins
Departs: 12:oo pm – 2:00 pm & 4:00 pm
Take in the breathtaking scenery of Queenstown on a voyage across Lake Wakatipu aboard a historic steamer launched in 1912.
The leisurely 90-minute voyage around the lake takes in some of Queenstown’s most beautiful alpine scenery while providing ample opportunity to discover a bit of Queenstown’s living history.
You may tour the engine room and observe the massive steam engines in action, peruse our mini-collection museum’s of historical photographs, inspect the bridge, or even join in on a sing-along with the pianist.
Alternatively, you may relax and enjoy a glass of wine or a beer, as well as café-style fare, at our on-board Promenade Café and Bar.
Price: Adults: $155 pp – Children $78
Duration: 3 hour 30 mins
Departs: Daily – 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
At Queenstown’s Walter Peak High Country Farm on the western banks of Lake Wakatipu, visitors may experience New Zealand’s farming lifestyle.
The farm is an ideal location to spend a few relaxed hours and get a taste of High Country farming life.
The first visit is to observe farm dogs gathering up sheep in hill paddocks and to witness a farmer shear a sheep.
Our rural demonstration will next lead you on a walking tour of the farmyard, where you can assist in feeding the alpaca, sheep, and deer, as well as get up up and personal with the Scottish Highland Cattle.
Enjoy a freshly baked afternoon tea following a stroll through the lakefront gardens. After that, you’ll board the TSS Earnslaw for the return trip to Queenstown.
Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch
Walter Peak Gourmet Barbecue Dinner
Price: Adults: $199 pp – Children $99
Duration: 3 hour 30 mins
Departs: Daily 12:00 pm
Enjoy a classic steamer lake trip, a delicious BBQ lunch at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, plus a farm demonstration following the meal.
Lunch begins with a journey across Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
Once there, you may relax on the lakeside terrace of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and inhale the delectable scents emanating from our chef’s grilling of the freshest local ingredients.
Includes:
- Gourmet barbecue lunch or dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant
- Enjoy lakeside dining at Walter Peak High Country Farm, away from the bustle of Queenstown
- Includes the return scenic cruise on board the historic TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship
- Be entertained by the farm demonstration, see the farm dogs at work
Price: Adults: $199 pp – Children $99
Duration: approx 4 hours
Departs: 6:00pm August to May
Supper with a twist — a classic steamship lake cruise followed by a delicious BBQ dinner at the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, followed by a farm demonstration and opportunity to browse the gift store.
Relax in the unique atmosphere of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, located in the heart of Walter Peak’s majestic homestead.
Here, you’ll experience a Gourmet BBQ supper including an abundance of New Zealand and local cuisine, from exquisite grilled meats to a variety of delectable veggies and salads.
Then indulge in our delectable desserts, New Zealand cheeses, and freshly made tea and coffee to round out your meal.
On your return night voyage, you may enjoy the camaraderie of a sing-along with the ship’s pianist or take in the fresh night air on the moonlight decks as the lights of Queenstown approach.
Walter Peak Horse Treks
Tours to Milford & Doubtful Sound
Price:$269 pp – Children $219
Duration: 3 hour 30 mins
Departs: 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Enjoy Queenstown’s stunning scenery on a lake cruise on board the TSS Earnslaw, then a relaxing horse trek at Walter Peak and return to the farm for morning/afternoon tea.
This 40 minute trek takes you across beautiful rolling terraces to a lookout with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the mountains. The riding is easy, picturesque and suitable for even first-time riders.
There’s time to explore the glorious gardens and farmyard before heading back to Queenstown.
RealNZ also provide a coach and cruise tours to Milford Sound, Combine a cruise (day or overnight) on Milford Sound with a drive through spectacular alpine roads in our luxury coaches.
MORE INFORMATION.
Coach tours to Doubtful Sound. Let us take you to Manapouri to join your Doubtful Sound cruise (day or overnight) onboard one of our coaches. MORE INFORMATION.
Relive the elegance of turn of the century travel with a cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw steamship.
FAQs: Your TSS Earnslaw & Walter Peak Experience
-
How long is the TSS Earnslaw cruise and farm tour?
- The cruise to and from Walter Peak High Country Farm takes approximately 45 minutes each way. With activities at the farm, the full experience lasts around half a day.
-
Is the TSS Earnslaw cruise suitable for families with children?
- Yes, the TSS Earnslaw cruise and Walter Peak Farm tour are family-friendly. The farm offers engaging activities for all ages, including animal encounters and farm demonstrations.
-
What meals are included in the BBQ buffet at Walter Peak Farm?
- The BBQ buffet includes a variety of fresh salads, vegetables, and locally-sourced meats, as well as bread, cheese, and dessert options. Options may vary seasonally.
-
What should I bring on the TSS Earnslaw cruise and farm tour?
- Bring comfortable clothing and a jacket, as it can be cooler on the lake. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery!
-
Can I explore the TSS Earnslaw during the cruise?
- Yes, guests are welcome to explore the TSS Earnslaw, including the engine room, which is open for viewing during the cruise.
-
Are there vegetarian options available at the BBQ buffet?
- Yes, vegetarian options are available. The booking form allows you to specify dietary preferences.
Return to Queenstown Page