Things to know before booking your Queenstown cruise
Cruise types: You can choose from three main kinds of cruises in Queenstown: day trips + cruises , sightseeing cruises , and adventure activities , like jet boating on the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers, or rafting for a more active experience
Day tripsvssightseeing cruises: If you want a complete, guided experience, day trips are a great choice. They usually include transport, meals, and commentary - perfect if it’s your first time in Queenstown. If you have time or budget constraints, a sightseeing cruise might suit you better. These shorter, standalone cruises are flexible and affordable, with optional upgrades such as scenic flights, private charters, or onboard dining.
Accessibility: Accessibility differs depending on the operator and vessel. Day trips may involve multiple transfers and aren’t always fully wheelchair accessible. Among sightseeing options, the Million Dollar Cruiseis easier for guests with mobility needs, while the TSS Earnslaw** has some areas that can be more challenging. Adventure cruises vary. Some jet boat operators provide assistance, while rafting experiences may have limited access.
When to book: If you’re planning a day trip, it’s best to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially during the busy summer months (Dec-Feb). Sightseeing and adventure cruises can often be booked closer to your travel dates, but booking early helps secure preferred times and optional add-ons.
Weather and seasons:Summer (Dec-Feb) is the best time to cruise, with long days and pleasant weather. Autumn and spring are cooler but still scenic, though some tours may run on reduced schedules. Winter (Jun–Aug) brings crisp air and snowy peaks — great for photography, but some day trips and adventure activities may be rescheduled if weather conditions change.
Find the best Queenstown cruise
Cruise name
Cruise type
Duration
Inclusions
Price
TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience
Lake cruise
4 hrs
Return cruise, BBQ lunch & drinks, guided farm tour/facilities at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Used for:TSS Earnslaw Steamship, Walter Peak BBQ Lunch/Dinner Cruises, and select combo tours.
Landmarks: Located beside the RealNZ Visitor Centre and Perky’s Floating Bar, right on the main waterfront.
Getting there: A 5-minute walk from Queenstown Mall or most central hotels. Public parking is available nearby on Lake Esplanade Road. Local buses and taxis also stop close to the wharf.
Address: 35 Lake Esplanade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Used for:Million Dollar Cruise and Southern Discoveries Scenic Cruises.
Landmarks: Situated in the heart of Queenstown Bay, near The Bathhouse Café and Marine Parade Gardens.
Getting there: Easily walkable from the town centre (2–3 minutes from Queenstown Mall). Paid parking is available at Church Street Car Park or along Marine Parade.
Address: 110 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand
Used for:Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise (by Southern Discoveries).
Landmarks: Near the Queenstown Lakeside Promenade and across from St Omer Park.
Getting there: A short 10-minute lakeside walk from the town centre or a quick ride by local bus or taxi. There’s limited public parking along Lake Esplanade Road and Park Street.
Plan your Queenstown cruise
Arrive at the pier 20-30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Most cruises require scanning your mobile e-ticket at the terminal or presenting a printed confirmation.
Boarding typically begins 10-15 minutes before sailing, and late arrivals may not be accommodated.
Look for signage or staff assistance at the main Queenstown waterfront or designated jetty for your operator.
Cruises generally operate between 10am and 7pm, though timings may vary by season and daylight hours.
Best time to cruise: Early mornings for calm waters and bright photography light, or late afternoons for golden-hour and sunset views.
Summer (Dec-Feb): Extended hours and evening departures, perfect for sunset sails.
Autumn & Spring (Mar-May/Sep-Nov): Cooler weather, fewer crowds, and crystal-clear views.
Winter (Jun-Aug): Limited departures but stunning snow-capped scenery.
Enjoy a comfortable experience with modern amenities:
Heated indoor cabins and open-air decks for panoramic viewing year-round.
Cafés and licensed bars serving coffee, wine, and light snacks.
Restrooms are available on all sightseeing vessels and day trip cruises.
Dining options: Some cruises, like the TSS Earnslaw, offer gourmet BBQ lunches or dinner experiences at Walter Peak.
Most Queenstown cruises welcome guests of all abilities.
Some vessels have steps or narrow gangways that may be challenging for wheelchair users.
The Million Dollar Cruise offers easier boarding access.
Historic vessels like the TSS Earnslaw may require assistance.
Guests with limited mobility should check accessibility details before booking to ensure a comfortable experience.
To maintain a safe and enjoyable environment onboard:
Outside food and alcohol are not permitted.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited on all vessels.
Children must be supervised at all times, especially on open decks.
Follow crew instructions during boarding, docking, and in case of changing weather conditions.
Travel tips
Book early for popular slots like sunset or dinner cruises, which often sell out during summer.
For a photography-friendly experience, choose morning departures for calmer waters and softer light.
Layer up, even in summer, lake breezes can be cool on deck.
Bring sunglasses and a light jacket, and if you’re planning an evening sail, consider upgrading to a drinks or dining package for the best experience.
Frequently asked questions about Queenstown cruises
You’ll cruise past the lakefront at Queenstown Bay, the majestic mountain ranges such as The Remarkables and Cecil Peak, and enjoy lakeside scenery with open‑water views. Some cruises also include visits to Walter Peak Station (a high‑country farm) for a unique lakeside/farm experience.
Boarding is from central piers such as Steamer Wharf, within walking distance of the town centre. Typical departures are between about 10 am and 7 pm; in summer there are extended hours and sunset sailings.
While there is no formal dress code, you are strongly recommended to dress in layers: even in summer, lake breezes can be cool on deck. Bring a jacket or fleece, sunscreen, sunglasses, and wear non‑slip footwear, especially if you’ll be on the open deck.
Cruises vary: the modern catamaran is designed with better accessibility (boarding with prams or mobility aids). Historic vessels may have steps, narrow gangways, or gravel paths that can be challenging. Guests with limited mobility should check details before booking.
Near the lakefront, you can explore the Queenstown Mall, lakeside cafés, take a stroll along Marine Parade, or visit nearby farms (if your cruise option includes a farm visit at Walter Peak). You might also pair with other activities such as scenic flights, jet‑boating, or further lake day trips.
It depends on the option. Some cruises offer light snacks or drinks, while others include full gourmet meals such as a BBQ lunch or dinner at Walter Peak. If no meal is included, you’ll be able to purchase drinks or snacks onboard (subject to the operator).
A popular scenic loop is about 90 minutes for example the Million Dollar Cruise. More extensive options (with farm visit, lunch, or day‑trip) can last 3.5 hours or more.
Cruises operate year‑round, but schedules may be impacted by weather and daylight. Some departures may be reduced in winter or rescheduled. In many cases you will be offered a reschedule or refund if cancelled due to weather—check the operator’s policy.
Outside food and alcohol are not permitted onboard. Smoking and vaping are prohibited on all vessels. Children must be supervised on open decks, and crew instructions must be followed.
Recommended items: a light jacket/fleece, sunglasses, sunscreen, camera, comfortable shoes. Also: arrive at least 20‑30 minutes before departure, have your e‑ticket/booking confirmation ready, and check the meeting point/boarding pier.
Queenstown Cruises Tours & TicketsCrafted by Headout, a global experiences brand offering curated tours, tickets & experiences. Discover with ease, book with peace.
Confused between cruising in Queenstown vs day-trip + cruise?
Soak in Lake Wakatipu’s beauty on a scenic Queenstown cruise (from NZD 79), or go all-out with a Milford or Doubtful Sound day trip — including transfers, photo stops, and a fjord cruise (from NZD 465). Compare cruises and choose your perfect experience!
Scenic Lake Wakatipu cruise with gourmet BBQ and historic Walter Peak farm experience.
Starting point: Queenstown lakefront
Everything you get: Lake Wakatipu cruise, engine room exploration, gourmet BBQ lunch, Colonel’s Homestead dining, historic homestead and lakeside views, farm garden stroll, photo opportunities of mountain and lake scenery.
Sights covered: Lake Wakatipu, Walter Peak Station, Colonel’s Homestead, surrounding mountains, and lakeside views.
Why choose this: Combine historic steamship experience with gourmet dining and scenic farm exploration on a full-day adventure.
Upgrade: Choosing between the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran for your Lake Wakatipu cruise.
Inclusions
#
Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Gourmet BBQ experience here (based on time selected)
90-minute TSS Earnslaw cruise (as per option selected)
60-minute Spirit of Queenstown cruise (as per option selected)
Live commentary
Exclusions
#
Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
Carry warm, weather-appropriate clothing and a waterproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly on the water.
Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
What’s not allowed
Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.
Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.
Accessibility
Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.
Additional information
Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.
Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
Restrooms are available on board.
The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.
Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.
Inclusions
#
1-hour 45-minute to 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
Expert skipper commentary
Complimentary tea & coffee
Wildlife spotting opportunities
Access to outdoor viewing decks
Indoor heated lounge area
Multi-language audio guide app
Scenic flight transfers from Queenstown (if option selected)
35 minutes each way flying time
Guaranteed window seats
Expert pilot commentary
Exclusions
#
Other food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Full-day Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise with Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass journey.
Starting point: Manapouri, with check-in at the RealNZ Visitor Center before boarding.
Everything you get: Lake Manapouri cruise, coach transfer over Wilmot Pass through Fiordland rainforest, 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise, complimentary tea and coffee onboard, live nature and history commentary, wildlife viewing opportunities, multilingual interpretation sheets
Sights covered: Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, Doubtful Sound, Fiordland rainforest, and Deep Cove.
Why choose this: A seamless full-day experience showcasing Fiordland’s remote beauty, wildlife, and wilderness.
Inclusions
#
Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour
Cruise across Lake Manapouri
Coach trip over Wilmot Pass
Knowledgable nature guide
Informative commentary
Interpretation hand-out sheets in 5 languages: English, German, French, Spanish & Japanese
Complimentary tea & coffee
Exclusions
#
Meals & drinks
What to bring
It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a warm sweater or fleece jacket.
It is advised to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and an insect repellent.
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Accessibility
Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.
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Additional information
The cruise vessel is subject to change without notice.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and outdoor activities.
Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Carry a refillable water bottle and any personal medications you may need.
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
What’s not allowed
Large luggage and suitcases are not permitted on the coach or cruise.
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed on the coach or cruise vessel.
Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Accessibility
This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and boarding/disembarking from vehicles and boats.
Additional information
The tour operates in all weather conditions; the itinerary may be adjusted for safety or comfort.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Infant seats are available on request; please inform the operator in advance if required.
Meals are not included unless specified in your ticket variant; you may bring your own snacks or purchase food at designated stops.
Restroom breaks are provided during the journey, but facilities may be limited in remote areas.
Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure. Late arrivals may not be accommodated.
The duration of the tour is approximately 12–13 hours, including transfers.
Inclusions
#
Full-day tour of Milford Sound with return transfers from Queenstown
Guided nature walks and scenic stops en route
Expert driver guide commentary
1-hour 45-minute fjord cruise
Boutique small boat cruise of maximum 15 people (if option selected)
Exclusions
#
Other food and beverages (available to purchase onsite)
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
See Fiordland twice: by air and by water for the best of both views.
Everything you get: Full day tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown, return or one-way scenic flights with window seats, pilot commentary over the Alps and glaciers, small-boat cruise for close waterfalls, airport transfers, and weather-first scheduling.
Why choose this: Best for time-smart travelers. Swap a 13h coach ride for a 5h fly-cruise, delivering Milford’s greatest hits with panoramic views and photos from two angles.
Upgrades: Go all-flight for maximum savings of time, or mix coach + flight to explore Milford Road’s scenic stops.
Inclusions
#
Full or half-day tour of Milford Sound from Queenstown (based on option selected)
One-way coach to Milford Sound with return flight transfer to Queenstown (if option selected)
Round-trip scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound (if option selected)
2-hour Milford Sound cruise
Small-group experience
Live commentary on board
Complimentary tea, coffee, & water on cruise
Guaranteed window seats
Round-trip hotel transfers
Exclusions
#
Food and drinks (available for purchase onsite)
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and variable weather conditions.
Bring a warm jacket, as weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable and cool, even in summer.
Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
Carry a water bottle and any personal medication you may need.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the aircraft, coach, or cruise.
Alcohol, illegal substances, and smoking (including e-cigarettes) are strictly prohibited on all transport and during the cruise.
Drones and professional photography equipment are not allowed without prior permission.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Accessibility
This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility. Guests must be able to board and disembark from small aircraft, coaches, and boats independently or with minimal assistance.
There are no wheelchair-accessible restrooms available during the tour.
Passengers weighing 140kg (308lb) or more should make a note during booking. For helicopter activities, there is a weight limit of 116kg (255lb).
A discrepancy exceeding 15kg (33lb) from the declared weight at check-in may lead to rescheduling, depending on availability.
Additional information
All flights are subject to weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Infants must sit on laps; child pricing applies for children aged 2–11 years. Children under 2 years may travel free but must be included in the booking.
Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
The itinerary and duration may vary depending on weather, traffic, and operational requirements.
Food and drinks are not included unless specified in your ticket. You may bring your own snacks.
Restroom facilities are available on the cruise vessel but may be limited during other parts of the tour.
Please inform the operator in advance of any dietary requirements or medical conditions.
The experience operates in all weather conditions except when deemed unsafe by the operator. Dress appropriately for changing weather.
Flight activities are subject to availability and require confirmation with the airline partner. As dates may not always be available, guests will be informed accordingly. If the regular flight operator is unavailable, the tour operator may arrange an alternative operator, which could incur an additional cost.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Twice the ride time of most jet trips, exploring Lake Wakatipu and two Queenstown rivers.
Everything you get: Enjoy a full 1-hour jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and into the Kawarau and Shotover rivers. Experience high-speed stretches, sharp 360° spins, and close-up views of Queenstown’s surrounding landscapes. All safety gear is provided.
Why choose this: Ideal for families and first-time riders. No height restrictions and child life jackets ensure everyone can enjoy a full hour of speed, spins, and varied river scenery in a single trip.
Inclusions
#
1-hour jet boat ride on Kawarau and Shotover Rivers
360° spins on water
High-speed river travel
Expert driver/guide
Life jackets (up to 4XL size)
What to bring
Bring your booking confirmation and a valid photo ID for verification.
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for high-speed water activities; safety clothing may be recommended on site.
What’s not allowed
Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the boat.
Food and beverages are not allowed during the experience.
Alcohol and cigarettes are strictly prohibited.
Safety is a priority, so this experience is restricted for infants aged 2 years and under.
Accessibility
This experience is accessible by wheelchair. You must be accompanied by a caregiver who can help carry you down a set of stairs and assist you with getting in and out of the jet boat.
Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.
Additional information
Children and infants must be able to fit into the life jacket provided to enjoy this experience.
Each infant must be accompanied by an adult during the experience.
Children aged 14 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Life jackets are available in sizes up to 4XL.
The decision on whether a child can sit independently or on a guardian's lap will be made by staff at check-in.
Children and infants must be able to fit into the life jacket provided to enjoy this experience.
Bringing cameras on board is at your own risk.
When a child sits on a guardian's lap, the guardian must keep their arms wrapped around the child and hold onto the handrail to secure the child, especially during spins.
If you have any concerns about a pre-existing medical condition, consult with your doctor before participating.
The activity operates in most weather conditions; dress appropriately and follow all safety instructions provided by staff.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Cruise Lake Wakatipu with optional add-ons like a farm tour, BBQ meal, or horse trek.
Everything you get: Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard a heritage steamship or modern catamaran, with live commentary and indoor and outdoor seating. You can add a visit to Walter Peak for a working farm tour, a BBQ meal at the Homestead, or a guided horse trek.
Why choose this: This flexible experience lets you choose your vessel and tailor your day with farm visits, dining, or outdoor activities.
Upgrades: Add a farm tour, BBQ dining, or horse trek at Walter Peak to extend your trip and explore more of the region.
Inclusions
#
Cruise on Lake Wakatipu
Live commentary on the cruise
Walter Peak Farm Tour (if option selected)
Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm
English-speaking guide
Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Meal (if option selected)
Gourmet BBQ lunch or dinner buffet here (based on time selected) (based on time selected)
Walter Peak Farm sheepdog show
Walter Peak Horse Trekking Tour (if option selected)
45-minute horse trekking tour
Nature guide
Small group of up to 6 people
Freshly baked morning or afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
Safety helmet and wet weather clothing
Walter Peak Garden to Table experience (if option selected)
Return cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Wakatipu
Guided tour of the kitchen gardens with produce tasting
Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)
Tip: Don't miss watching the steam engines at work on the TSS Earnslaw—it's a rare glimpse into the ship’s 1912 history!
The Spirit of Queenstown is designed with accessibility in mind, making it easier to board with prams or mobility aids. The TSS Earnslaw, with its heritage design, may present some challenges for those with limited mobility or prams.
The Farm Tour involves walking on gravel paths, so it may be challenging for wheelchair users. Those with impaired mobility should consider their comfort level before participating.
The restaurant for the BBQ dining is easily accessible, except for the short gravel path from the wharf, which may require assistance for some wheelchair users.
Safety is a priority so the horse trekking experience is restricted for guests under the age of 7 years, under the height of 1.2m (3.94ft) and over the weight of 100kg (220.46lb).
The horse trekking tour is suitable for riders of all skill levels, including first-time riders.
The TSS Earnslaw is scheduled to undergo annual maintenance from May 19 to September 9, 2025.
The cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. In the event of cancellation due to poor weather, you will have the option of rescheduling or receiving a full refund.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Scenic 90-minute cruise with stunning alpine views and expert local commentary.
Starting point: Queenstown lakefront, just steps from the town center
Everything you get: 90-minute scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range, live commentary on local history, wildlife, and geology, indoor lounge and open-deck seating options, onboard café serving light refreshments
Sights covered: Queenstown Bay, the Remarkables Range, Kawarau Falls Dam, and Queenstown Golf Club peninsula.
Why choose this: A peaceful way to see Queenstown’s alpine beauty — perfect for families, photographers, and first-time visitors.
Inclusions
#
90-minute cruise from Queenstown
Expert local guides
Live commentary
Exclusions
#
Snacks and beverages (available at an additional cost)
What to bring
Bring your jacket, snacks, and camera for this trip.
Bring local currency or your preferred payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
Accessibility
This experience is not accessible by wheelchairs.
Additional Information
The operator may cancel the cruise due to poor weather conditions or if the minimum number is not met. In such cases, you will be offered a full refund or an alternate date or experience.
The tour can accommodate a maximum of 60 passengers.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Milford’s most personal road-to-sea journey in a small group.
Everything you get: Return transport from Queenstown in a modern small-group minibus, frequent scenic stops in Fiordland National Park, and a boutique Milford Sound cruise. Includes a gourmet picnic lunch, surprise snacks, expert driver-guides, and fast-tracked boarding.
Why choose this: Best for families and explorers who want more. With small groups, personal guiding, and tailored stops, you’ll enjoy a crowd-free journey that feels immersive, flexible, and deeply connected to New Zealand's Fiordland.
Inclusions
#
Full-day Milford Sound tour from Queenstown
Small-group return travel by premium minivan
Hotel pickup and drop-off at select stops
Guided commentary by local English-speaking driver
Scenic photo stops in Fiordland National Park
Boutique Milford Sound sightseeing cruise
Gourmet picnic lunch with snacks and water
Exclusions
#
Child safety car seat for children under 8 years old (NZ$20 per seat if not providing your own)
Hotel pickup from unlisted properties
Alcohol, drinks, or additional meals not listed
Start from Queenstown.
The following stops will be included on the way to and back from Milford Sound.
Minibus
Queenstown
Lake Wakatipu
Devils Staircase
Lake Te Anau
Eglington Valley
Mirror Lakes
Lake Gunn
Hollyford River & Falls Creek
Darran Mountains
Homer Tunnel
Cruise
These are the sights you can look out for during the cruise:
Milford Sound
Mitre Peak
Pop's View Lookout
Return to Queenstown
What to bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking on your tour.
Bring clothing for all weather conditions, including a rain or wind jacket.
Children under 8 years old are required to travel in a child safety car seat. These can be supplied for NZ$20 per seat or you may bring your own. Please advise the ages of children when booking.
Kindly advise of any dietary requirements when booking.
You will receive an email with important pickup details the day before your tour. Please read this carefully.
This is a small-group tour by minivan.
The weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable; it is recommended to bring clothing for all weather conditions.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Full-day guided Doubtful Sound cruise through pristine Fiordland landscapes.
Starting point: Convenient pick-up from Queenstown
Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Queenstown, a scenic Lake Manapouri cruise, a 3-hour Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise, and expert commentary on Fiordland’s unique flora and fauna.
Sights covered: Doubtful Sound, Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, rainforests, rugged peaks, and wildlife.
Why choose this: Experience a full-day wilderness adventure with guided insights and unique wildlife sightings.
Inclusions
#
Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour
Cruise across Lake Manapouri
Coach trip over Wilmot Pass
Round-trip transfers from Queenstown
Knowledgable nature guide
Informative commentary
Interpretation hand-out sheets in 5 languages: English, German, French, Spanish & Japanese
Complimentary tea & coffee
Exclusions
#
Meals & drinks
What to bring
It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, and a warm sweater or fleece jacket.
It is advised to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and an insect repellent.
Accessibility
Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.
Additional information
The cruise vessel is subject to change without notice.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Sightseeing Cruises
#From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience
Scenic Lake Wakatipu cruise with gourmet BBQ and historic Walter Peak farm experience.
Starting point: Queenstown lakefront
Everything you get: Lake Wakatipu cruise, engine room exploration, gourmet BBQ lunch, Colonel’s Homestead dining, historic homestead and lakeside views, farm garden stroll, photo opportunities of mountain and lake scenery.
Sights covered: Lake Wakatipu, Walter Peak Station, Colonel’s Homestead, surrounding mountains, and lakeside views.
Why choose this: Combine historic steamship experience with gourmet dining and scenic farm exploration on a full-day adventure.
Upgrade: Choosing between the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or the modern Spirit of Queenstown catamaran for your Lake Wakatipu cruise.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr. 45 min. - 4 hr. 30 min.
Audio guide
Pickup available
Meals included
Sightseeing Cruises
From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Full-day Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise with Lake Manapouri and Wilmot Pass journey.
Starting point: Manapouri, with check-in at the RealNZ Visitor Center before boarding.
Everything you get: Lake Manapouri cruise, coach transfer over Wilmot Pass through Fiordland rainforest, 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise, complimentary tea and coffee onboard, live nature and history commentary, wildlife viewing opportunities, multilingual interpretation sheets
Sights covered: Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, Doubtful Sound, Fiordland rainforest, and Deep Cove.
Why choose this: A seamless full-day experience showcasing Fiordland’s remote beauty, wildlife, and wilderness.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
12 hr. - 13 hr.
Guided tour
Transfers available
Pickup available
Day Trips
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise
See Fiordland twice: by air and by water for the best of both views.
Everything you get: Full day tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown, return or one-way scenic flights with window seats, pilot commentary over the Alps and glaciers, small-boat cruise for close waterfalls, airport transfers, and weather-first scheduling.
Why choose this: Best for time-smart travelers. Swap a 13h coach ride for a 5h fly-cruise, delivering Milford’s greatest hits with panoramic views and photos from two angles.
Upgrades: Go all-flight for maximum savings of time, or mix coach + flight to explore Milford Road’s scenic stops.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
4 hr. 30 min. - 13 hr.
Transfers available
Pickup available
Meals included
Speed Boat Tours
Kawarau and Shotover River Jet Boat Ride by KJet
Twice the ride time of most jet trips, exploring Lake Wakatipu and two Queenstown rivers.
Everything you get: Enjoy a full 1-hour jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and into the Kawarau and Shotover rivers. Experience high-speed stretches, sharp 360° spins, and close-up views of Queenstown’s surrounding landscapes. All safety gear is provided.
Why choose this: Ideal for families and first-time riders. No height restrictions and child life jackets ensure everyone can enjoy a full hour of speed, spins, and varied river scenery in a single trip.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr.
Guided tour
Sightseeing Cruises
From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Lake Wakatipu Cruise
Cruise Lake Wakatipu with optional add-ons like a farm tour, BBQ meal, or horse trek.
Everything you get: Cruise across Lake Wakatipu aboard a heritage steamship or modern catamaran, with live commentary and indoor and outdoor seating. You can add a visit to Walter Peak for a working farm tour, a BBQ meal at the Homestead, or a guided horse trek.
Why choose this: This flexible experience lets you choose your vessel and tailor your day with farm visits, dining, or outdoor activities.
Upgrades: Add a farm tour, BBQ dining, or horse trek at Walter Peak to extend your trip and explore more of the region.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr. 30 min. - 3 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
Meals included
Sightseeing Cruises
From Queenstown: Million Dollar Cruise
Scenic 90-minute cruise with stunning alpine views and expert local commentary.
Starting point: Queenstown lakefront, just steps from the town center
Everything you get: 90-minute scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu, panoramic views of the Remarkables mountain range, live commentary on local history, wildlife, and geology, indoor lounge and open-deck seating options, onboard café serving light refreshments
Sights covered: Queenstown Bay, the Remarkables Range, Kawarau Falls Dam, and Queenstown Golf Club peninsula.
Why choose this: A peaceful way to see Queenstown’s alpine beauty — perfect for families, photographers, and first-time visitors.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr. 30 min.
Guided tour
Sightseeing Cruises
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Premium Small Group Tour with Cruise & Lunch
Milford’s most personal road-to-sea journey in a small group.
Everything you get: Return transport from Queenstown in a modern small-group minibus, frequent scenic stops in Fiordland National Park, and a boutique Milford Sound cruise. Includes a gourmet picnic lunch, surprise snacks, expert driver-guides, and fast-tracked boarding.
Why choose this: Best for families and explorers who want more. With small groups, personal guiding, and tailored stops, you’ll enjoy a crowd-free journey that feels immersive, flexible, and deeply connected to New Zealand's Fiordland.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
13 hr.
Guided tour
Pickup available
Meals included
Sightseeing Cruises
From Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Full-day guided Doubtful Sound cruise through pristine Fiordland landscapes.
Starting point: Convenient pick-up from Queenstown
Everything you get: Round-trip transfers from Queenstown, a scenic Lake Manapouri cruise, a 3-hour Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise, and expert commentary on Fiordland’s unique flora and fauna.
Sights covered: Doubtful Sound, Lake Manapouri, Wilmot Pass, rainforests, rugged peaks, and wildlife.
Why choose this: Experience a full-day wilderness adventure with guided insights and unique wildlife sightings.