Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw/Spirit of Queenstown Cruise with Gourmet BBQ Experience

Steamboat cruising on Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand.

Barbeque platter with meats and sides at Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Couple enjoying a meal at Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience with lake view.

Grilled meats and vegetables on a platter at Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Experience.

Duration

3 hrs 30 mins

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

4.8/5(480)

Castille P

Couple

Verified booking

Last week

The TSS Earnslaw cruise and gourmet BBQ experience was one of the highlights of our Queenstown trip. The views across Lake Wakatipu were absolutely stunning, and it was a unique experience sailing on such a historic steamship. The BBQ lunch exceeded expectations with a great variety of fresh meats, seafood, salads, and desserts. The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff were friendly and attentive, and everything was very well organized. We also enjoyed exploring Walter Peak and watching the farm demonstration. A fantastic experience that perfectly combines breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a taste of New Zealand history. Highly recommended!

Aidan H

Couple

Verified booking

4 days ago

The sights in the boat ride were incredible. Once we got in for out lunch with the BBQ buffet, me and my girlfriend were shocked at the quality. The meat and desserts were si standout good. And the farm show afterwards was super cool to see even though ive been around farms growing up. Would give 6 stars if i could. Totally worth the trip

Mariant V

Family

Verified booking

Last week

Beautiful stunning views of the lake and the commentary while you cruise through, The trip was smooth the lunch buffet food was all so delicious and variety. The dog show in the end was also a fun treat.

Heather W

Group

Verified booking

May 2026

A fantastic experience and a delicious meal and great farm show. Congratulations to you all. Just two suggestions. at the lunch over a loud speaker or written on your ticket the time of the dog show , otherwise we had to ask and alot of people turned up late , made alot of noise and the nice man shearing sheep, had to ask the crowd tp be quiet 3 times. Another valid point and suggestion,whetr you queue ip to board the Earnslaw outside your ofgice, you need more shelter like a roof for sun and rain protection and a few more seats to cater for elderly visitors, who are restricted in movement. You should charge another $5 per person to give elderly to embark ir disembark first. 44 years ago we were on board and given typewritten sheets to sing songs ( these can be laminated) the pianist was playing. unbelievable atmosphere and everyone seated in the half near the piano sang. great memories. More interesting than the pianist and singing, although she was good. This creates a unique experience, most people can sing in English. Hope you take these great suggestions on board We have travelled the world extensively and you run an amazing experience but it could improve. thankyou Heather

Barbara L

Group

Verified booking

May 2026

The most perfect day, the staff were welcoming. The pianist created a wonderful ambience. The scenery and lunch at Walter Peak, followed with the farm show just perfect. Walter Peak is a beautiful place, the buffet had a large assortment of food. Our waitress was from Japan, she was wonderful.

Shannyn B

Family

Verified booking

May 2026

Lovely cruise and fantastic to see a steam ship in action, there is a viewing area to watch the engine and coal fire. The BBQ lunch was amazing, best buffet I have ever experienced with high quality dishes and fantastic wait staff. Highly recommend this experience

Ideal for foodies and nature lovers, the TSS Earnslaw Cruise with Walter Peak BBQ offers a unique Queenstown lakeside dining adventure.

Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown and enjoy a cruise across Lake Wakatipu with alpine and lakeside views along the way.

Relish a gourmet BBQ buffet at the charming Colonel’s Homestead, featuring wood-fired meats, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts.

Unwind after dinner with an entertaining farm dog show showcasing the skill and teamwork of working dogs.

Fun fact: Launched in 1912, the TSS Earnslaw is the last remaining coal-fired steamship in the Southern Hemisphere, lovingly preserved for all to enjoy.

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

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.

480 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
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Guests from Australia, United States, United Kingdom and over 20 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Castille P
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
The TSS Earnslaw cruise and gourmet BBQ experience was one of the highlights of our Queenstown trip. The views across Lake Wakatipu were absolutely stunning, and it was a unique experience sailing on such a historic steamship. The BBQ lunch exceeded expectations with a great variety of fresh meats, seafood, salads, and desserts. The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff were friendly and attentive, and everything was very well organized. We also enjoyed exploring Walter Peak and watching the farm demonstration. A fantastic experience that perfectly combines breathtaking scenery, delicious food, and a taste of New Zealand history. Highly recommended!
Aidan H
Couple
Verified booking
4 days ago
The sights in the boat ride were incredible. Once we got in for out lunch with the BBQ buffet, me and my girlfriend were shocked at the quality. The meat and desserts were si standout good. And the farm show afterwards was super cool to see even though ive been around farms growing up. Would give 6 stars if i could. Totally worth the trip
Mariant V
Family
Verified booking
Last week
Beautiful stunning views of the lake and the commentary while you cruise through, The trip was smooth the lunch buffet food was all so delicious and variety. The dog show in the end was also a fun treat.
Ng K
Group
Verified booking
Last week
Great dining atmosphere, friendly staff, good food variety, and an enjoyable farm show experience.
Juan S
Couple
Verified booking
Last week
Relaxing cruise and good food.

Cruise Lake Wakatipu aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown with a gourmet BBQ lunch and farm show at Walter Peak Station.

Getting started Board the TSS Earnslaw or the Spirit of Queenstown catamaran at the Queenstown lakefront. Settle in as the vessel departs, offering scenic views of the Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and surrounding mountains.

What to expect Enjoy a relaxing cruise across Lake Wakatipu with opportunities to explore the engine room and learn about the steamship’s historic coal-fired workings. Disembark at Walter Peak Station to dine in the restored Colonel’s Homestead, explore the gardens, watch the farm demonstration, and photograph the picturesque alpine and lakeside scenery.

Features

Lake Wakatipu cruise: Scenic journey aboard the TSS Earnslaw or catamaran with panoramic mountain views.

Engine room access: Explore the steamship’s historic coal-fired workings and learn from the captain.

Gourmet BBQ lunch: Buffet-style meal with wood-fired meats, fresh bread, cheeses, and salads.

Colonel’s Homestead: Dine in the 1902 homestead with lakeside views and colonial charm.

Farm experience: Sheep-herding demonstration, meet farm animals including sheep, cattle, and alpacas.

Gardens and photo spots: Stroll through Homestead Gardens and capture alpine and lake scenery.

What to bring

Bring your covered shoes/boots (nonslip), long trousers, warm clothing/jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and camera.

Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.

Bring a cash-free payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

Accessibility

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 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.

Additional information

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.

The TSS Earnslaw and Spirit of Queenstown undergo yearly maintenance, during which an alternative vessel will be in service.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

Boarding point

Please check your final voucher for the boarding point details and specific instructions.