Queenstown Cruise Boarding Points

Before you set sail across Lake Wakatipu, here’s everything you need to know about where your Queenstown cruise departs. Most boarding points are located along Beach Street and Queenstown Bay — all within walking distance of the town centre.

Whether you’re boarding the vintage TSS Earnslaw, relaxing on the Million Dollar Cruise, or taking in the views on the Spirit of Queenstown, finding your pier is easy and convenient.

Where are the Queenstown Cruises departure points?

Historic steamship at Queenstown wharf with mountains at sunset.

Steamer Wharf

Used by: TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak BBQ Cruises | Find on map.

Located along the bustling Queenstown waterfront, Steamer Wharf is a lively spot filled with cafés, bars, and restaurants — perfect for pre- or post-cruise dining. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the town centre and easily accessible on foot from most central hotels.
Limited street parking is available nearby, and the public car park on Rees Street is a short stroll away.
Nearby landmarks: The Bathhouse Café, Perky’s Floating Bar

Lake Wakatipu with wharf and mountains near Glenorchy, Queenstown Bay.

Queenstown Bay Wharf

Used by: Million Dollar Cruise | Find on map

Set right in Queenstown Bay, this wharf is the most central departure point — just steps away from the main beach, the waterfront gardens, and the town’s shopping district. It’s ideal for travellers without a car, as everything is within easy walking distance.
Parking is available at the Queenstown Gardens car park or along Lake Esplanade.
Nearby landmarks: Queenstown Beach, Marine Parade, Queenstown Gardens

Passengers receive a briefing from the crew on the open deck of a boat in Doubtful Sound.

St Omer Wharf

Used by: Spirit of Queenstown Scenic Cruise | Find on map.

Situated a few minutes’ walk west of downtown along Lake Esplanade, St Omer Wharf offers a quieter boarding experience away from the main crowds. It’s next to St Omer Park, a popular picnic spot with lakefront views and green space.
Free and paid parking options are available nearby, and it’s accessible by local buses or a short lakeside walk.
Nearby landmarks: St Omer Park, Lakefront Trail

Getting to the departure points

Address: Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown 9300

Landmark nearby: Skyline Queenstown

Friends exploring Rome with a map, walking on a sunny street.

Address: Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, Queenstown 9300

Landmark nearby: Skyline Queenstown

By walk: Around 5–10 minutes from the town centre and most lakefront hotels.
By car: Paid parking is available on Man Street and Rees Street car parks.
By bus: Local Connect buses stop nearby on Shotover Street.
Accessibility: Moderate, boarding the historic TSS Earnslaw involves a few steps.

Cars parked in a row under a clear sky in Langkawi.

Address: 65 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300

Landmark nearby: Marine Parade Gardens

By walk: Less than 5 minutes from Queenstown Mall and the waterfront.
By car: Limited street parking — arrive early for the best availability.
By bus: The closest stops are on Camp Street (around 5 minutes away).
Accessibility: Easy — flat gangway and short ramp for comfortable boarding.

Passengers enjoying scenic views through glass roof on Milford Sound coach.

Address: 110 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300

Landmark nearby: Saint Omer Park

By walk: 10 minutes from Queenstown Mall along the scenic lakefront path.
By car: Free 30-minute parking is available beside Saint Omer Park.
By bus: Regular Connect services stop along Beach Street and Rees Street.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly boarding ramp and easy pier access.

Tips

If you’re visiting Queenstown for the first time, here are a few quick tips to make your cruise experience smooth and enjoyable:

Arrive early: Aim to reach your pier at least 20–30 minutes before departure.
Dress for the weather: Lake Wakatipu can be breezy even on sunny days — a light jacket always helps.
Double-check your pier: Your ticket confirmation lists the correct departure point — most are within a short walk of each other.
Parking fills fast: Paid options are on Man Street and Rees Street, or you can park free for 30 minutes near Saint Omer Park.
Accessibility: The Spirit of Queenstown cruise offers the easiest access for wheelchair users; TSS Earnslaw may require assistance due to steps.
Combine experiences: Consider pairing your cruise with a dining or adventure combo to make the most of your visit.