TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Farm

Take a trip on the iconic TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak, New Zealand’s most iconic boat and one of Queenstown’s most historic destinations.

Known as The Lady of the Lake, the TSS Earnslaw has provided an essential link between the isolated farming communities along the lake and the outside world since 1912. At 48 metres long, she was the biggest boat on the lake and carried passengers, sheep, cattle, mail and supplies. Nearly scrapped in 1968, she was rescued and purchased by Real Journeys and put to work once again carrying passengers around the lake. Since then the TSS Earnslaw has been painstakingly restored to its original condition – everything you see is pretty much like it was a 100 years ago. Today, the TSS Earnslaw is the only hand fired steamship in operation in the southern hemisphere, making her one of the most unique experiences in the world.

Choose from a range of daily departures for your 1h30m return cruise, taking time to explore the vessel, view the engine room and study the historic displays of the steamship's former life. Combine your cruise with activities including a farm tour (all year), or horse trek (October - April), guided cycling (November - April). Try the electric trail bikes (November - April; but min. nos apply May - Sep) and explore the gentle, rolling farmland of Walter Peak. Alternatively, dine at the beautiful lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant for lunch (all year) or dinner (July - May). Please note that the tour is not in operation from early June to early July each year for annual maintenance.