From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown with Walter Peak Farm Tour at RealNZ - Queenstown Visitor Centre
From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown with Walter Peak Farm Tour
Choose your experience
TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown with Walter Peak Farm Tour
Cruise across stunning Lake Wakatipu to experience authentic New Zealand farming life at Walter Peak High Country Farm. You'll choose between two vessels for this Queenstown tour: the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship with its open engine room and vintage charm, or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran with panoramic windows and accessible boarding. Both offer spectacular views of the Remarkables mountain range and surrounding alpine peaks.
At Walter Peak Farm, you'll meet Highland cattle, sheep, alpacas and deer whilst learning about rural New Zealand traditions dating back to the 1800s. Watch skilled farm dogs demonstrate their sheep-herding abilities in an amphitheatre setting, guided by expert rural hosts who share insights into high country farming life.
What is Included
- Lake Wakatipu cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown
- Guided Walter Peak Farm tour
- Sheepdog demonstration
- Interaction with farm animals
- Freshly baked scones, cakes and afternoon tea
- Live commentary and English-speaking guide
Good to Know
Meet at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown and check in at the RealNZ terminal 20 minutes before departure. The Spirit of Queenstown offers wheelchair and pram accessibility, while the TSS Earnslaw has limited accessibility due to stairs and narrow passageways. Weather conditions may affect sailing schedules.
The TSS Earnslaw operates outside its maintenance period from mid-May to early September. Your lakeside afternoon tea takes place in the homestead gardens with alpine views. This family-friendly experience suits all ages and provides insight into New Zealand's farming heritage.
If you're planning more Queenstown scenic tours, consider combining your lake adventure with aerial views of the region. The farm tour pairs perfectly with other Queenstown day trips that showcase the South Island's natural beauty.
Why you'll love it
- Cruise Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm from Queenstown
- Choose the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship with open engine room
- Or board Spirit of Queenstown catamaran for panoramic windows
- Both vessels frame the Remarkables mountain range on the crossing
- Experience authentic New Zealand high-country farming life ashore
- Accessible boarding available on the Spirit of Queenstown catamaran
What's included
- Return lake cruise on Lake Wakatipu
- Choice of TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown
- Farm visit at Walter Peak High Country Farm
- Access to open engine room on TSS Earnslaw
- Wildlife encounter with cattle, sheep and alpacas
- Hotel pickup or drop-off in Queenstown
- Gratuities for farm and vessel crew
Good to know
- Age suitability
- ...
- Know before you go
Highlights
Enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu with stunning alpine views
Choose between the heritage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran
Visit Walter Peak High Country Farm for immersive farm activities
Meet Highland cattle, sheep, alpacas and farm dogs
Watch a working sheepdog demonstration led by an experienced rural host
Savour a lakeside afternoon tea with home-baked treats
What’s Included
Lake Wakatipu cruise aboard TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown
Guided Walter Peak Farm tour
Sheepdog demonstration
Interaction with farm animals
Freshly baked scones, cakes and afternoon tea
Live commentary and English-speaking guide
- Visitor guidelines
Your experience
Discover the beauty of Lake Wakatipu and the rural traditions of New Zealand’s high country on this unique lakeside experience that includes a return cruise and authentic farm encounter.
Getting started
Arrive at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown and check in at the RealNZ terminal. Make sure you are ready to board 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Staff will assist you to the correct vessel according to your booked option—either the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown.
Lake Wakatipu cruise
Step aboard for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu, taking in breathtaking views of surrounding mountains including the Remarkables. The TSS Earnslaw offers a taste of history with its open engine room and occasional live piano. The Spirit of Queenstown features panoramic windows and open decks for uninterrupted vistas and accessible boarding. Listen to live commentary about the lake’s origins and regional folklore as you cross to Walter Peak’s rural shoreline.
Walter Peak Farm visit
Arriving at Walter Peak Farm, your guide will lead you on a walk through the farmyard. Feed and meet friendly Highland cattle, sheep, alpacas and deer. Enjoy a demonstration in the amphitheatre, where skilled farm dogs round up sheep as explained by an expert rural host. The farm’s rich heritage, dating from the 1800s, is embedded in every encounter.
Afternoon tea and gardens
Your visit continues with a lakeside refreshment break at the homestead. Sample home-baked scones, cakes and local treats while relaxing in the garden with alpine views. This is the perfect pause before your return cruise to Queenstown.
Flexible options
This tour is suitable for families, animal lovers and anyone seeking insight into New Zealand’s farming traditions. Modern and historic vessel choices allow for accessibility and personal preference. Both boats offer seating, refreshments and memorable lake perspectives.
Accessibility and notes
The modern catamaran is accessible for prams and mobility aids. The historic TSS Earnslaw’s design includes stairs and narrow passageways. Tours can be adjusted according to weather and the season. The TSS Earnslaw operates outside its annual maintenance period (mid-May to early September).
End of your tour
Relax and enjoy the scenery during your return to Queenstown, bringing back a taste of country life and alpine adventure.
Book your From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown with Walter Peak Farm Tour tickets now!
- Cancellation policy
Free cancellation
Frequently asked
Which vessel will I cruise on?
You will sail on either the TSS Earnslaw steamship or the Spirit of Queenstown catamaran depending on your booked option and schedule.
Is afternoon tea included in all tickets?
Yes, all tickets feature a freshly prepared lakeside afternoon tea with homemade scones and treats.
Are these cruises suitable for children?
Yes, the farm tour and animal encounters are family-friendly activities suitable for all ages.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs and prams?
The Spirit of Queenstown is accessible. The TSS Earnslaw and parts of the farm have limited accessibility due to steps and gravel.
What happens in bad weather?
Cruises may be rescheduled or refunded if weather disrupts safe operation. Always check for updates in advance.
Where you'll be
RealNZ - Queenstown Visitor Centre, RealNZ Visitor Centre 88 Beach Street, CBD,
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