It's just wonderful being out on Lake Whakatipu, but extra special to do it in the over 100 year old steamship. Lounge in comfort with a drink from the bar. Wander the deck for alpine views. Or gaze upon the precision engineering of the coal fired steam engine.
TSS Earnslaw Lake Cruises
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Step Aboard New Zealand’s Most Iconic Steamship
Experience one of Queenstown’s most historic treasures, the legendary TSS Earnslaw, New Zealand’s most iconic boat. This leisurely 90-minute cruise across Lake Whakatipu immerses you in spectacular alpine scenery and a unique piece of living history.
Explore the century-old steamship, marvel at its working steam engines in the engine room, and browse historical photos in the onboard mini-museum. Take in the sights from the bridge, or relax at the Promenade Café and Bar with a wine, beer, or a tasty treat.
Cruises run regularly throughout the day, offering flexibility to suit your plans. Opt for the cruise alone or elevate your experience with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Choose from experiences like a Gourmet BBQ Dining experience, a guided Farm Tour, or the conservation-focused Eco Experience.
The TSS Earnslaw has carried many famous visitors, including Queen Elizabeth, Prince Phillip and even President Bill Clinton. Undoubtedly, this iconic tour is one not to miss.
Things you should know
- The Promenade Café boasts delicious food and a licensed bar on board
- You can combine your scenic cruise with a variety of activities at Walter Peak, including a Gourmet BBQ Dining experience, a guided Farm Tour, or the conservation-focused Eco Experience
- The lake cruise is suitable for all ages
- The TSS Earnslaw cafe is cash-free and we reserve the right to refuse cash as a means of payment
Departure location:
RealNZ Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown.
If you have pre-purchased tickets, please meet us in front of the TSS Earnslaw, Steamer Wharf Dock.
What to bring:
- Shoes/boots (non-slip)
- Warm clothing/jacket
- Sunscreen/sunglasses
- Camera
- Personal medication including for asthma and allergies
About the TSS Earnslaw
TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship, 1912
The TSS Earnslaw is an integral part of Queenstown’s pioneering history and to this day a Queenstown icon.
She was commissioned by New Zealand Railways to service the communities around Lake Wakatipu. Launched in the same year as the Titanic, the TSS Earnslaw’s maiden voyage was on 18 October 1912.
Known as The Lady of the Lake, she provided an essential link between the isolated farming communities along the lake and the outside world. At 48 metres long, she was the biggest boat on the lake and carried passengers, sheep, cattle, mail and supplies.
Nearly scrapped in 1968, she was rescued and purchased by RealNZ and put to work once again carrying passengers around the Lake. Since then the TSS Earnslaw has been painstakingly restored to its original condition – everything you see is pretty much like it was 100 years ago. Today, the TSS Earnslaw is the only hand-fired, commercial passenger-carrying steamship in operation in the southern hemisphere, making her one of the most unique experiences in the world.
The TSS Earnslaw has featured in several movies including a cameo in Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull as an Amazon River Boat. Parts of the trawler SS Venture in Peter Jackson’s King Kong were inspired by the TSS Earnslaw. Famous composer Ron Goodwin composed a piece of music inspired by the rhythm of the TSS Earnslaw’s engines.
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