Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise
About This Experience
The budget way onto Lake Whakatipu, and a different animal from the RealNZ fleet: a small boat, a small group, and a skipper who talks to you rather than over a PA. Ninety minutes from the main town pier, and the cheapest cruise in Queenstown that is still worth taking.
The route works the near end of the lake — the Frankton Arm, the Kelvin Heights shoreline and the bays under Cecil Peak — which means more to look at per minute than a long run up the lake. The Remarkables sit over your shoulder the whole way.
There is indoor and outdoor seating, a licensed bar, and a play box for children. Dogs are welcome, which almost nothing else on the water here allows. What you do not get is the Walter Peak landing — this is a cruise, not a farm trip.
Take it as an add-on rather than an alternative: it is the sunset hour or the spare afternoon, not the day you were going to spend at the station.
Highlights
- Relax and unwind aboard a spacious boat with a smaller intimate group setting
- Spot local wildlife and admire the surrounding mountains and beautiful homes
- Snap the most amazing photos to remember your New Zealand trip for a lifetime
- Sip on a beer, a glass of wine, or a soft drink, available for purchase on board
- Enjoy a cruise for all ages, with a play box for the kids
What's Included
- ✓ 90-minute cruise on Lake Wakatipu
- ✓ Live commentary from a knowledgeable captain
- ✓ A friendly crew member’s on hand to serve drinks, answer questions, and keep the good vibes flowing
- ✓ Views of The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Kelvin Heights, and more
- ✓ Onboard licensed bar (drinks available for purchase)
- ✓ Indoor and outdoor seating
- ✓ Small group experience — no overcrowding
- ✓ Central departure from Queenstown’s main jetty
- ✓ Dogs can come too - pet friendly cruise
Not Included
- Hotel transfers or transport to the jetty
- Wheelchair access (due to vessel design)
What to Bring
- Warm clothing
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Sunscreen
Good to Know & Caveats
- Don't forget, cash or card for drinks at the onboard bar
- Wear comfortable, warm clothing and bring a camera to capture the stunning views
Not Suitable For
- Wheelchair users
Meeting Point
Look for the Million Dollar Cruise signage on the Queenstown lakefront at the main jetty, on Marine Parade below the Village Green.
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.8/5 by 381 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
Captain Troy was great, even took photos of people from front of boat in front of Remarkables, and let the kids and big kids onboard have a go at being captain of the boat. Beautiful scenery and entertaining commentary, blankets supplied, and the lovely Tan came round with orders for refreshments. Great trip all round we really enjoyed it.
— Sue, August
It was a very great experience with extremely friendly staff and good coffee!
— Paul, August
beautiful morning on the lake. stunning views, great commentary and a nice small group. perfect to learn about the region from the water
— Annette, August
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this cruise stop at Walter Peak?
No. It is a 90-minute scenic loop of the near lake with no landing. For Walter Peak you need one of the RealNZ cruises that includes the farm.
Where does it leave from?
The main town pier on Marine Parade, on the Queenstown lakefront — not Steamer Wharf, where the TSS Earnslaw berths. Look for the Million Dollar Cruise signage.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes — it is a pet-friendly cruise, which is unusual on Lake Whakatipu.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
No. The vessel’s design does not allow wheelchair access.
Are drinks included?
No, but there is an onboard licensed bar. Bring a card or cash for it.
Other Walter Peak & Lake Whakatipu Trips
Queenstown: Lake Cruise to Walter Peak Farm with BBQ Buffet
Queenstown: Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour
Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu
Queenstown: Walter Peak Farm Tour and Lake Cruise
Queenstown: Walter Peak Garden to Table Experience
Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise
