Follow in Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip’s regal footsteps and boat down Lake Wakatipu on board this century-old steamship.
Over a hundred years ago, New Zealand Railways commissioned shipbuilders McGregor and Company to build the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. The parts for the ship were built in Dunedin and then transported to Lake Wakatipu to be assembled, and the completed ship has been serving the people of Queenstown and its many visitors ever since. The steamship travels back and forth between Queenstown and Walter Peak High Country Farm over 11 months of the year.
In 1986 the steamship was refurbished and shortly after came the old boat’s most prestigious passengers as British royals Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip hopped on board the elegant steamship with its characteristic bright red funnel.
During the trip, you can watch the stokers fuel the ship's engine by shovelling coal into the firebox or enjoy the views of the picturesque scenery. You’ll also learn a lot about the history of the ship and the local area during the 90-minute voyage.
The boat trip can be combined with a visit to the sheep and cattle farm at Walter Peak which can include a barbecue lunch as well as a horse-riding trek.
The TSS Earnslaw has a licence on board so you can sample some of the fine local wines. And why not accompany this with a picnic on deck, against the backdrop of the best possible views of Lake Wakatipu? A word of warning: the journey is usually very tranquil but it is advisable to bring warm clothing and non-slip shoes in case the weather conditions change during your trip.
The TSS Earnslaw undergoes maintenance for one month every year so it is worth checking beforehand to make sure the service is operating during your stay. The boat trip and the visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm both have an admission fee but there’s free parking available at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown. This is where the TSS Earnslaw Steamship departs from three times a day.
