Where does the cruise depart from?

Million Dollar Cruise Jetty, Main Town Pier, Queenstown — right by Marine Parade.

What’s included in the ticket?

A 90-minute sightseeing cruise with live captain’s commentary.

No, seating is open — you’re free to move between indoor and outdoor areas.

Yes, it’s a family-friendly cruise, and children under 5 travel free.

Is there food or drink on board?

Light refreshments are available for purchase; guests may bring their own snacks or drinks.

What is the dress code?

Casual wear is best; a jacket is recommended for open-deck viewing.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the vessel is wheelchair-friendly with crew assistance available for boarding.

How is Million Dollar Cruise different from others?

It’s locally owned, intimate, and sails closer to the shoreline for unbeatable views and storytelling.

You can book closer to your travel dates, but advance booking helps secure your preferred time slot, especially in summer.

Does the cruise run in bad weather?

Yes, the vessel’s heated indoor lounge and panoramic windows ensure comfort in all conditions.

What else can I do nearby?

The Main Town Pier area is steps from Queenstown’s cafés, shops, and activities like jet boating and the Skyline Gondola.

Million Dollar Cruise Queenstown | Lake Wakatipu Sightseeing

Things to know before booking your Million Dollar Cruise

Cruise type: A 90-minute sightseeing cruise ideal for families, first-time visitors, and anyone wanting a relaxed way to see Lake Wakatipu.
Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly vessel with crew assistance and a heated indoor cabin for year-round comfort.
When to book: Book early during summer (Dec–Feb) for preferred times; tickets are often available closer to travel dates in other seasons.
Weather & seasons: Operates in all weather. Summer offers long, clear days, while winter brings crisp air and snow-capped scenery.
General guidelines: Open seating — arrive early for lakefront views. BYO snacks allowed. Children under 5 travel free. Cancellations accepted up to 24 hours before departure.

Your Million Dollar Cruise ticket explained

Aerial view of Million Dollar Cruise boat on Lake Wakatipu near Queenstown waterfront.

A family-run sightseeing cruise showcasing the best of Lake Wakatipu since 2004.

Type of cruise: Lake Wakatipu sightseeing cruise
Inclusions: Live English commentary, heated indoor cabin, open viewing decks
Ideal for: Families, first-time visitors, photographers
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

Book Million Dollar Cruise

Features of the Million Dollar Cruise ship

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All-weather comfort

Purpose-built vessel with a heated cabin and enclosed seating, ensuring comfort in all seasons.

Spacious design

Indoor lounge and open-air viewing decks let you enjoy Lake Wakatipu’s scenery from any angle.

Engaging live commentary

The captain shares local stories, lake legends, and fascinating insights throughout the journey.

Accessible for all

Wheelchair and stroller accessible, with crew assistance available for easy boarding.

Flexible dining options

Guests can bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy onboard.

Wide-open views

Large wraparound windows let you take in the lake and mountain scenery without anything in the way—great for photos.

What you’ll see on your cruise

Cruise boat on Lake Wakatipu with passengers viewing Queenstown's Remarkables mountains.

The Remarkables

Take in the steep, snow-dusted peaks rising straight from the water — one of Queenstown’s most iconic backdrops.

Boats docked at Queenstown Marina with mountains in the background.

Kawarau River flowing through rocky Kawarau Gorge with a kayaker navigating rapids.

Queenstown Gardens New Zealand with lake, trees, and flower beds.

Couple enjoying Milford Sound views from a cruise deck, surrounded by mountains and water.

Plan your Million Dollar Cruise

Located on Queenstown’s Main Town Pier, right by Marine Parade and Steamer Wharf.

Address: Million Dollar Cruise Jetty, Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand

Getting there

On foot: Just a 3–5 minute walk from central Queenstown and nearby hotels.
By car/taxi: A quick 2–5 minute ride from most central Queenstown accommodations. Paid parking is available along Marine Parade and at the nearby Church Street car park.
By bus: Most local buses stop at Queenstown Station on Camp Street, about 400 m from the pier.

Family enjoying ferry ride with ocean view.

Arrival time: Arrive 15–20 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and boarding. Early arrival also helps you secure a preferred seat — indoor or on the open deck.
Ticket verification: Present your ticket or QR code (digital or printed) to the captain or crew at the boarding jetty for quick scanning.
Boarding process: Crew members will guide passengers onboard via the ramp. Boarding closes 5 minutes before departure, so please be on time to avoid missing your cruise.

Note: For families and guests needing assistance (wheelchair, stroller, or extra support), early boarding is available upon request.

Tour boat cruising on Lake Wakatipu with Queenstown mountains in the background.

Daily departures: Million Dollar Cruise operates four daily sailings at 11pm, 2pm, and 4pm, making it easy to fit into any Queenstown itinerary.
Evening cruise (Seasonal): During the warmer months (typically October to April), an additional 6pm sailing is available — perfect for catching the golden evening light over Lake Wakatipu.
Duration: Each cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views, listen to live commentary, and take photos from both indoor and outdoor decks.

Tip: Midday cruises provide the clearest mountain views, while the evening departures offer the best conditions for sunset photography.

Passengers socializing in the indoor cabin during a Lake Wakatipu cruise, Queenstown, New Zealand.

Heated cabin: Stay warm and comfortable while enjoying panoramic lake views.
Restrooms: Clean and easily accessible for all passengers.
Open deck seating: Step outside for fresh air and unobstructed views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountains.
Live commentary: The captain shares local stories, history, and interesting facts throughout the cruise.
Refreshments for sale: Light snacks and beverages are available onboard; BYO options are also allowed.

Couple enjoying wine on a boat with Queenstown mountains in the background on Lake Wakatipu.

Casual attire is recommended for comfort during the cruise.
Light jacket or sweater for the open decks, as it can get breezy on the lake.
Comfortable shoes for walking around the vessel.
Optional accessories: sunglasses or a hat for sunny days.

Restroom door with gender and baby changing symbols in bullet train.

Wheelchair-friendly vessel with ramps for easy boarding.
Crew assistance is available to help guests safely get on and off the cruise.
Spacious indoor and outdoor areas suitable for mobility devices.
Accessible restrooms are available onboard for all passengers.

Tips & guidelines

Best views: Sit on the left side of the boat to see Queenstown’s waterfront homes up close.
Early arrival: Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure to secure outdoor deck seating and check in smoothly.
Dress amart: Bring a light jacket or sweater for the open decks; sunglasses and a hat are recommended on sunny days.
Photography tips: Midday cruises offer clear, bright lighting; evening sailings provide golden-hour views of the Remarkables and the lake.
Combine activities: Pair the cruise with the Skyline Gondola or a jet boat ride for a perfect half-day itinerary.
Family-friendly: Children under 5 travel free; spacious decks and indoor areas accommodate strollers.