Sightseeing Cruises in Queenstown

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)

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

• Native flora & conservation walk

• Opportunity to plant a native tree or shrub

• Garden-to-table light lunch, featuring homegrown & locally sourced ingredients

• Expert host commentary throughout the experience

Spirit of Queenstown cruise (if option selected)

• 1-hour 30-min Spirit of Queenstown cruise

• Live commentary by expert skipper

• Access to open top deck

• Wheelchair accessible

Exclusions #

• Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

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)

Cruise Lake Wakatipu, explore a working farm, and enjoy afternoon tea in alpine surrounds.

• Everything you get: Cruise across Lake Wakatipu, then explore Walter Peak Farm with a friendly guide. Feed sheep, alpacas, and Highland cattle, watch sheepdogs at work, and relax with freshly baked scones and cakes in a charming lakeside setting.
• Why choose this: You’ll get to enjoy a scenic cruise, feed friendly farm animals, and have fresh-baked afternoon tea—Queenstown charm at its best.
• Upgrades: Cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw with open engine-room views or the Spirit of Queenstown with a spacious open-top deck with panoramic views.

Inclusions #

• Guided tour of Walter Peak Farm
• English-speaking guide
• Farm show demonstration in the amphitheatre
• Farmyard visit to meet the animals
• Freshly baked afternoon tea (homemade scones, cakes, sandwiches, and slices)
• Lake Wakatipu cruise on the TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown (based on selected option)
• Live commentary on the cruise

Exclusions #

• Other food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

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.

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)

Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests

• Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
• Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
• Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.

Inclusions #

• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise on a boutique boat

• Maximum 75 passengers only

• Expert skipper & guide

• Close-to-waterfall positioning

• Wildlife encounter opportunities

• Onboard commentary

Guided Milford Track walk (if option selected)

• 10min boat to Sandfly Point

• Up to 4 hours hiking time

• Expert hiking guide

• Track safety briefing and safety gear

Exclusions #

• Lunch & personal snacks (available to purchase onsite)

Shorter travel, calmer crowds, the Te Anau advantage.

• Everything you get: Return coach from Te Anau with expert driver-guide, early cruise slots to beat peak crowds, scenic stops at key viewpoints, live commentary, and a relaxed 8 to 9-hour schedule that pairs well with glowworm cave visits.
• Why choose this: Best for families and planners who want less time on the road and more time in Milford Sound. Starting closer means a smoother, calmer day with fewer travel hassles.
• Upgrades: Opt for an intimate small-group tour and a small-boat boutique cruise for a more personal experience.

Inclusions #

• Full-day guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau

• 2-hour Milford Sound scenic cruise

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Return transfers from Te Anau with stops for short walks

• Live commentary on board

Exclusions #

• Lunch & refreshments (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change quickly.
• Bring a rain jacket or waterproof outerwear, as the area is known for frequent rainfall.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks, as options may be limited during the tour.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on the coach or cruise vessel.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Large luggage and suitcases are not allowed; bring only a small day bag.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility due to steps and uneven surfaces.

Additional information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions; cruises may proceed in rain or shine.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Restroom facilities are available on the coach and cruise vessel.
• The itinerary and stops may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
• Infants aged 0–4 may travel free of charge but must be included in your booking.
• Meals are not included; please bring your own food or purchase at available stops.
• The experience includes return transfers between Te Anau and Milford Sound.

Helicopter ride, glacier landing, and Milford Sound cruise: all in one 4-hour adventure.

• Everything you get: A 4-hour adventure from Queenstown combining a helicopter flight over Fiordland, a glacier or alpine landing for a rare photo stop, and a guided cruise through Milford Sound beneath cliffs and waterfalls. Guaranteed window seating and live pilot commentary.
• Why choose this: Perfect for travelers wanting Milford’s highlights without the long road trip. In just hours, you’ll fly above the Southern Alps, step onto ancient ice, and sail the fiord.

Inclusions #

• 4-hour Milford Sound helicopter and cruise tour from Queenstown

• Return scenic helicopter flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound

• Guaranteed window seat in a modern Airbus helicopter

• Glacier or alpine snow landing for photos

• Scenic cruise through Milford Sound waterfalls & cliffs

• Live commentary from both pilot-guide and cruise host

• Complimentary tea and coffee served during your cruise

Exclusions #

• Picnic lunch onboard the cruise (available to purchase onsite)

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.