TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Step on board the TSS Earnslaw Cruise - watch the stokers fuelling the fireboxes and hear the sound of the steam engines working as the TSS Earnslaw takes you on a nostalgic cruise of beautiful Lake Wakatipu on the South Island of New Zealand. Be transported in style on one of the regular departures to Walter Peak High Country Farm. On board the captain provides an interesting commentary as visitors enjoy spectacular views of Cecil and Walter Peaks and the western shores of Lake Wakatipu.

The original steam engines can be seen in operation from the open viewing area. During the cruise the ship's pianist entertains with a variety of old favourites and visitors are encouraged to join in the sing-a-long around the piano.

Some great cruise options include the Walter Peak High Country Farm tour and Gourmet BBQ Lunch. The popular Walter Peak High Country Farm tour features sheepdog and sheep shearing entertainment and is great for families looking to explore the country New Zealand culture. The gourmet BBQ meals showcase the best of New Zealand local produce and are made more enjoyable with spectacular views of beautiful Lake Wakatipu.

Tea, coffee and delicious cafe style food can be purchased on board from the Promenade Cafe/Bar. Most food items are baked daily in the TSS Earnslaw galley. Affectionately known as the "Lady of the Lake", the TSS Earnslaw has a special place in the hearts of Queenstown people, as it will do with you when you experience the nostalgia on your next New Zealand holiday.

Itinerary Options

The following options are available with the TSS Earnslaw Cruise:

Walter Peak High Country Farm Excursion
Includes a fantastic farm tour at Walter Peak High Country Farm with the famous farm and sheep show and a Country style morning or afternoon tea. This is a great half day tour option from Queenstown.

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch
Includes a Gourmet BBQ Lunch featuring food from the Central Otago region. Lunch includes a variety of meat, breads, salads, desserts and fruit. Guests will be entertained either before or after lunch with the Farm show featuring working sheep dogs and sheep shearing.

Highlights

  • Cruise Lake Wakatipu
  • Farm Tour option
  • Gourmet BBQ Lunch option

Inclusions

  • View the engine room
  • Nostalgic Cruise
  • Historic displays in the Fo'c'sle Gallery

Times

All cruises depart from the RealNZ Travel Centre, Steamer Wharf, Queenstown

TSS Earnslaw Cruise
Departs Daily: 12noon and 2.00pm (Oct-Nov and Apr-May and Sep), and 11.00am (Dec-Mar)
Returns: 1.30pm and 3.45pm (Oct-Nov and Apr-end of May and Sep), and 12.30pm (Dec-Mar)

TSS Earnslaw Cruise + Walter Peak Farm Excursion
Departs Daily: 12noon and 2.00pm (Oct-Nov and Apr-May and Sep), and 11.00am (Dec-Mar)
Returns: 3.45pm and 5.45pm (Oct-Nov and Apr-May and Sep, and 2.30pm (Dec-Mar)

TSS Earnslaw Cruise + Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch
Departs Daily: 12noon (Oct-Nov and Apr-May and Sep), and 11.00am (Dec-Mar)
Returns: 3.45pm (Oct-Nov and Apr-May and Sep, and 2.30pm (Dec-Mar)

Please Note: TSS Earnslaw is unavailable during the survey period when maintenance is carried out, usually end of May to start of Sep each year.

Additional Info

Children: 5-14 years are charged at the child rate
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, waterproof jacket and warm clothing
Operated By: RealNZ