*Please note the TSS Earnslaw Steamship is undergoing scheduled maintenance during the period 19th May to 1 October 2025*

A return scenic cruise from Queenstown Bay, across stunning Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on a vessel of your choice, a farm demonstration and a delicious BBQ Lunch at the Colonel's Homestead.

The rural demonstrator will give guests an insight into life in the New Zealand high country by providing an entertaining farm show including working sheep dogs.

Enjoy a unique dining experience at Walter Peak where the menu showcases food and wine from the wider Central Otago region. Chefs prepare a tasty selection of meats on the outdoor grill, while fresh, seasonal salads and vegetables are available from the dining area of the Colonel's Homestead. Top off lunch with a selection of delicious sweet treats and local cheeses.

Choose between sailing on the iconic 1912 TSS Earnslaw Steamship or the spacious and modern Spirit of Queenstown Catamaran.

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Step aboard a classic Queenstown lake cruise and take in the region's most iconic views from the water. 

Million Dollar Cruise is a 90-minute journey across Lake Wakatipu, offering uninterrupted views of the Remarkables, hidden bays, and historic homes — all with live commentary from a local crew who genuinely love what they do. 

With smaller groups, a relaxed pace, and a fully licensed onboard bar, it's the perfect mix of comfort, scenery, and story. 

Departing daily from Queenstown's main jetty, it's an unforgettable experience — and unbeatable value!

Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise (90 Minutes)

You are guaranteed a window seat with unimpaired views as you fly this incredible route to and from Milford Sound through a landscape of unbelievable grandeur and beauty. Encounter real mountain flying and marvel at the most remarkable snow-capped mountains and glaciers onboard our fixed-wing aircraft. Your knowledgeable, highly skilled local pilot providing interesting and informative commentary. Flying across the Southern Alps, out to the West Coast and the Tasman Sea before flying through the Fiord itself to land in Milford Sound. 
Once in Milford, your pilot will accompany you to the boat terminal. Discover the natural wonders of Milford Sound aboard your cruise vessel with open-air viewing decks, a perfect location for some wildlife spotting. The Fiord is home to fur seal colonies, penguins, and dolphins, who love playing in the wake of the boat. You will cruise the length of the Fiord out to the Tasman Sea with a pass under Sterling Falls on the return.

Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Whakatipu, aboard either the iconic vintage TSS Earnslaw or the sleek Spirit of Queenstown.

Once you arrive over at the working high country station, partake in a wander around the grounds to meet and greet all the animals that call the farm home. Our guides will give fun and informative commentary, and you'll be delighted by a farm show detailing life for the working dogs. 

Indulge in a decadently classic country morning/afternoon tea with homemade scones and tea. Use your time to your leisure to wander the gardens and re-visit your new animal friends. 

Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your departure time to check in. 

Please note: The TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing scheduled maintenance 19 May to 1 October 2025, we have another fantastic vessel available throughout this time - Spirit of Queenstown

Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Adventure

Cruise on Queenstown's iconic vintage steamship, TSS Earnslaw. Relax on board and admire the stunning alpine scenery whilst you cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Explore the decks, view the engine room, watch the stokers in action or purchase delicious snacks/drinks from the Promenade Café.

Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in.

TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Steamship Cruise from Queenstown

Aboard the Queenstown Lake Cruise, you will discover mountains, forests, and hidden coves as our skipper shares tales of the lake's history. Admire Bob's Cove, Mt Earnslaw and the Southern Alps during our 1 hour and 30-minute cruise.
Whether with family, friends, or a special someone, join us to uncover Queenstown's natural beauty. As a local family business, we're proud to showcase Lake Whakatipu's secrets and leave you with cherished memories of Queenstown's landscapes.


Scenic Queenstown Lake Cruise 

Be struck by the beautiful silence of Doubtful Sound as you cruise the crystal waters and take in the breathtaking scenery. Journey across Lake Manapouri, cross over the 670-meter high Wilmot Pass and enjoy a 2 hour and 45-minute cruise through pure serenity that is Doubtful Sound.

This trip is a round trip of approximately 13 hours. If you wish to pre-order a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after booking. 

Hotel pick up/drop off from select locations is available - please call RealNZ directly to find out if there is a pick up close to your accommodation.
Please be sure to arrive at your pick up location 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. 

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Queenstown

An extended and leisurely cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea on a cruise designed for the free, independent traveler. Nature cruises have a relaxed and flexible itinerary designed to allow guests to see and experience what makes Milford Sound world renowned. Spend around two hours nudging into waterfalls, spotting wildlife and listening to the informative commentary from our specialist Nature Guide who mingles with guests. Keep a look out for wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins.

If you wish to pre-purchase a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after making your booking.

In total, the coach travel from Queenstown to Milford is around 5 hours. This includes with some viewing spot breaks along the way and a 20-30 minutes stop in Te Anau. For those travelling from Te Anau the journey is around 2.5 hours to Milford (one way). The cruise is 2 hours long.
Please note, the cruise will take place on board a wide selection of purpose built RealNZ boats. 

Milford Sound Cruise from Queenstown or Te Anau 

Journey in comfort on one of our brand new, low-emission coaches and take in incredible panoramic views on the road to Milford Sound. Enjoy entertaining commentary, and let us show you the best stops along the way as you connect seamlessly to your Milford Sound cruise.

Discover native wildlife, towering waterfalls and majestic mountains on our extended Milford Sound Nature Cruise. Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls and close enough to feel the full force the powerful 15,000-year old Stirling Falls. Specialist nature guide on board shares their local knowledge with lively and informative commentary. This day trip includes a freshly prepared lunch on-board your cruise.

Return to Queenstown by a breath-taking scenic flight, and enjoy views of the pristine alpine lakes and waterfalls that Fiordland National Park is recognised for.

Sightseeing Cruises in Queenstown