Climb aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage Edwardian steamship, for a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise. Watch the stokers feed the coal fires, explore the historic vessel, and enjoy stunning mountain views.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 1.5 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Host or greeter
- English
- Wheelchair accessible
Experience
Highlights
- Sail aboard the historic, coal-powered TSS Earnslaw on a 1.5-hour cruise
- Admire spectacular alpine scenery from the vantage point of the lake's waters
- Explore the engine room below decks where stokers feed the roaring coal fire
- Discover a fascinating collection of historical photos in the small onboard museum
Full description
Join the TSS Earnslaw for a 1.5-hour cruise across Lake Wakatipu. Admire spectacular alpine scenery and enjoy plenty of time to explore a piece of living history. Listen to engaging commentary from your experienced captain who will highlight points of interest throughout your cruise.
Make your way to Steamer Wharf at Queenstown’s waterfront. Climb aboard the oldest working coal-fired passenger steamship in the southern hemisphere and feel free to explore! View the collection of historical photos in the small onboard museum and check out the skipper’s wheelhouse. Visit the engine room to feel the heat of the giant steam engines at work and see the stokers shovel coal into the glowing fireboxes.
Soak in the dramatic mountain views surrounding Lake Wakatipu and relax at the cafe where you can enjoy a wine or beer and snacks are also available for purchase.
Includes
- 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise
- Food and drinks
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Visitor Centre, Steamer Wharf, 88 Beach Street, Queenstown
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Jacket
- Weather-appropriate clothing
Know before you go
- Upon check-in, you must exchange your ticket for a boarding pass at the visitor center
- Your cruise departure time may be different from the one requested. The local operator will confirm your cruise details by email after booking
- Please advise at time of booking if wheelchair assistance is required
- TSS Earnslaw is undergoing annual maintenance between the 2 June and 3 July, 2020. If you are traveling between these dates, your cruise will be held on a different boat
- Cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund
- Parking is not available, so please leave your car at your accommodation
- Non-slip shoes are recommended
