Experience Queenstown's beautiful lakes, from Lake Wakatipu to boat cruises, discovering New Zealand's lake paradise

Queenstown offers beautiful lake experiences, where Lake Wakatipu, crystal-clear waters, and scenic cruises create lake experiences that make lake tours perfect for experiencing New Zealand's stunning lakes! Lake tours take you through Queenstown's lake world, from cruising Lake Wakatipu to experiencing boat tours, from discovering lake scenery to enjoying water activities, and from seeing alpine reflections to understanding why Queenstown lakes are so beautiful. Experience the lake beauty that defines Queenstown, see why the lakes are so stunning, enjoy diverse lake activities and scenic cruises, and discover why lake tours offer perfect ways to experience New Zealand's lake paradise. Whether you're seeking lake cruises, boat tours, water activities, or comprehensive lake exploration, lake tours provide engaging journeys that showcase the lake heart that makes Queenstown special. From cruises to activities, from relaxation to adventure, lake tours ensure you experience the incredible lakes that define Queenstown!
Discover our top picks for lake tours in Queenstown

*Please note the TSS Earnslaw Steamship is undergoing scheduled maintenance during the period 19th May to 1 October 2025* A return scenic cruise from Queenstown Bay, across stunning Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on a vessel of your choice, a farm demonstration and a delicious BBQ Lunch at the Colonel’s Homestead. The rural demonstrator will give guests an insight into life in the New Zealand high country by providing an entertaining farm show including working sheep dogs. Enjoy a unique dining experience at Walter Peak where the menu showcases food and wine from the wider Central Otago region. Chefs prepare a tasty selection of meats on the outdoor grill, while fresh, seasonal salads and vegetables are available from the dining area of the Colonel’s Homestead. Top off lunch with a selection of delicious sweet treats and local cheeses. Choose between sailing on the iconic 1912 TSS Earnslaw Steamship or the spacious and modern Spirit of Queenstown Catamaran.

Step aboard a classic Queenstown lake cruise and take in the region’s most iconic views from the water. Million Dollar Cruise is a 90-minute journey across Lake Wakatipu, offering uninterrupted views of the Remarkables, hidden bays, and historic homes — all with live commentary from a local crew who genuinely love what they do. With smaller groups, a relaxed pace, and a fully licensed onboard bar, it’s the perfect mix of comfort, scenery, and story. Departing daily from Queenstown’s main jetty, it’s an unforgettable experience — and unbeatable value!

Your adventure begins with a scenic cruise across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Whakatipu, aboard either the iconic vintage TSS Earnslaw or the sleek Spirit of Queenstown. Once you arrive over at the working high country station, partake in a wander around the grounds to meet and greet all the animals that call the farm home. Our guides will give fun and informative commentary, and you'll be delighted by a farm show detailing life for the working dogs. Indulge in a decadently classic country morning/afternoon tea with homemade scones and tea. Use your time to your leisure to wander the gardens and re-visit your new animal friends. Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your departure time to check in. Please note: The TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing scheduled maintenance 19 May to 1 October 2025, we have another fantastic vessel available throughout this time - Spirit of Queenstown

Cruise on Queenstown’s iconic vintage steamship, TSS Earnslaw. Relax on board and admire the stunning alpine scenery whilst you cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Explore the decks, view the engine room, watch the stokers in action or purchase delicious snacks/drinks from the Promenade Café. Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to check in.

Aboard the Queenstown Lake Cruise, you will discover mountains, forests, and hidden coves as our skipper shares tales of the lake's history. Admire Bob's Cove, Mt Earnslaw and the Southern Alps during our 1 hour and 30-minute cruise. Whether with family, friends, or a special someone, join us to uncover Queenstown's natural beauty. As a local family business, we're proud to showcase Lake Whakatipu's secrets and leave you with cherished memories of Queenstown's landscapes.

Cruise across Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Board the Spirit of Queenstown, a modern catamaran with a licensed bar where you can purchase a drink or 2 for your journey. Once at the lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, savor the delicious aromas as the chef has the best of local produce sizzling away on the grill. The buffet includes salads, vegetables, and succulent local meats cooked on the wood-fired BBQ. There is a wide range of delicious desserts on offer, including a vast array of fresh bread and cheese. Overlooking Lake Whakatipu and Queenstown's alpine scenery, the Colonel’s Homestead at Walter Peak is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Its colonial architecture and sweeping grounds evoke the elegance of a bygone era. Enjoy an entertaining farm demonstration the whole family will enjoy. If there is time remaining, explore the beautiful lakeside gardens before re-boarding the vessel for the return trip to Queenstown.

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours. Highlights: • Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park, free time for activities & walks • Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki • Church of the Good Shepherd, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety. While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Experience the beauty of the New Zealand high country on a scenic boat ride across Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Watch a sheepdog show, feed the animals, and enjoy a morning or afternoon tea in the charming old woolshed. Begin your combo tour with a relaxing scenic boat ride across Lake Whakatipu aboard a modern catamaran, the Spirit of Queenstown. Disembark the vessel and be greeted by your rural host. From the amphitheater, watch the remarkable skill with which the farm dogs round up sheep from the paddocks. Enjoy a walking tour of the farmyard, visiting the holding pens, where you can help feed the sheep and deer and even get up close to the Scottish Highland Cattle. Then, stroll to the charming old woolshed for morning or afternoon tea. You may have time to wander through the lakeside gardens before you re-board the Spirit of Queenstown for your cruise back to Queenstown.

Immerse yourself in a unique floating sauna experience that harmonizes heat, cold, and relaxation on the stunning Lake Whakatipu. Each 75-minute Watershed session invites you to unwind in handcrafted Finnish saunas before plunging into the pristine alpine waters. Enjoy breathtaking sunset views from your private lounge and take a moment to connect with nature and friends. With options for shared or private bookings, this rejuvenating ritual combines the benefits of contrast therapy with the joy of socializing in a luxurious setting, just steps from Queenstown's vibrant center.

Enjoy the freedom to paddle at your own pace. Explore the calm waters of Moke Lake at your own pace by kayak or paddle board. Let us transport you into wilderness right on our doorstep, escape the hustle and bustle of Queenstown and see why this has been a favourite spot for locals for years!

This tour is a beautiful way to see and learn about our amazing countryside. It is also perfect for a beginner starting out on their eBike adventures. Pedal assisted Premium eBikes will help you to cover longer distance with ease. We will show you hidden secrets on the trail and tell you the history of the Queenstown area. You will discover local nature and meet its habitats. The magnificent landscape around Queenstown makes Ride to the Lake Tour comfortable for riding and does not require special skills (You should feel confident on a regular bike). It's enough for the experienced rider to keep interested but also great for not-so-experienced riders to push themselves and learn new skills.

Today is all about value. Your day starts with a bike fit out of our Clyde depot, an Historic New Zealand Railway Station. We'll whisk you up to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct in our deluxe airconditioned vans, take a photo of you on your phone or camera and answer any last minute questions. You'll then experience the fabulous Lake Dunstan Trail, whizzing along quality Sinch E-Bikes with the largest capacity batteries. Since you're riding back to your car or accommodation in Clyde you'll have plenty of time to experience all this ride has to offer. That's the benefit of getting the transport part over and done with in the morning, no riding to a rigid timetable or waiting around when you finish to get transported again. This trail has so much to offer and you're in the safe hands of a local company with 15 years experience in the region. All you need to do is keep those pedals turning and snap those photos.

This trail travels alongside Lake Dunstan on the opposite side of the lake to the road that travels between Cromwell and Clyde. The engineering involved to create this trail is stunning with clip-ons attached to the rockface in places, the Hugo Suspension Bridge plus a very good trail surface throughout the ride. The views and scenery on this ride are fantastic and you can fully understand the history of the area - from the goldrush to the building of NZ's largest dam - by reading the information boards along the way.

For the Lake Dunstan Experience we will meet you at our Clyde Depot in it's historic heart. We will fully brief you on your world class trail e-bike. From here we will transport you to the Historic Precinct of Old Cromwell where you will start your adventure and ride the amazing Lake Dunstan Trail back to Clyde. This is more than just a bike hire — it’s a fully supported adventure along one of New Zealand’s most spectacular trails. Ride across engineering marvels, cling to the edge of dramatic cliffs, and discover stories carved into the schist of Central Otago. What sets us apart is our local experience, premium e-bike fleet, and seamless service that takes care of everything, from transfers to trail support. Whether you're seeking a scenic solo ride, a couples escape, or a family day out, our team makes it easy to ride your way — safely, comfortably, and with complete confidence

This is more than just a bike hire — it’s a fully supported adventure along one of New Zealand’s most spectacular trails. Ride across engineering marvels, cling to the edge of dramatic cliffs, and discover stories carved into the schist of Central Otago. What sets us apart is our local experience, premium e-bike fleet, and seamless service that takes care of everything, from transfers to trail support. Whether you're seeking a scenic solo ride, a couples escape, or a family day out, our team makes it easy to ride your way — safely, comfortably, and with complete confidence.
Experience stunning lake beauty!
Visit beautiful alpine lake.
Discover scenic water experiences.
Experience lake fun.
Tours featuring scenic cruises.
Tours featuring boat experiences.
Tours featuring lake activities.
Full tours covering cruises and activities.
Lake tours: Half day (3-4 hours) exploring lakes.
Visit beautiful alpine lakes.
Experience peaceful boat rides.
Guides explain lake features.
Learn about lake significance.
Photograph beautiful lakes.
Lake tours showcase Queenstown's lake paradise
Lake Wakatipu highlight - beautiful alpine lake
Cruises offer peaceful scenic experiences
Lake tours essential for lake lovers
Lake tours highlight lake beauty
Lake tours showcase lake diversity
Lake tours provide perfect lake perspective
A: Lake tours visit Lake Wakatipu (beautiful, alpine, impressive), nearby lakes (scenic, peaceful, beautiful), and various lakes showcasing Queenstown's lake beauty! Lakes diverse and beautiful. Lake Wakatipu most impressive. Scenery stunning. Essential for lake understanding. Must-visit - lake variety. Spectacular lake destination. Perfect lake experiences!
A: Lake Wakatipu beautiful alpine lake featuring crystal-clear waters, being considered among Queenstown's most spectacular features creating absolutely stunning lake destination! Lake beautiful and impressive. Waters clear. Setting stunning. Essential for understanding. Must-visit - lake importance. Perfect lake education!
A: Lake tour prices include guide, boat transport, and sometimes refreshments! Professional guides knowledgeable. Boat transportation essential. Some tours include drinks. Prices represent good value. Tour inclusions comprehensive!
A: Yes! Lake tours family-friendly with scenic experiences suitable for all ages! Children enjoy boat rides and scenery. Educational for families. Safe boat transport. Many families enjoy lake tours. Perfect for families wanting lake experiences. Family-friendly with varied activities!
A: Essential items: Comfortable clothing, camera, layers, and water! Comfortable clothing for boat travel. Camera for lake photos. Layers for changing weather. Water for hydration. Essential gear for lake tours. Camera most important!
A: Lake tours excellent year-round with each season offering unique beauty! Year-round impressive. Spring and autumn colorful. Winter reflections spectacular. Best season: Year-round with seasonal highlights!
A: Yes! Lakes accessible independently but organized tours provide boat transportation and expert guides! Independent visits possible. Guided tours convenient with transport. Boat access essential. Guided tours recommended. Both options available!
A: Queenstown lakes special for Lake Wakatipu, crystal-clear waters, alpine setting, being considered among New Zealand's most beautiful lakes creating absolutely spectacular lake paradise! Lakes beautiful and stunning. Waters pristine. Setting impressive. Essential for understanding. Must-appreciate - lake significance. Spectacular lake destination!
Adventure activities
Alpine scenery
World-class skiing
Crystal-clear lakes
Wine regions
Perfect blend of adventure and beauty
Queenstown has four distinct seasons. Spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May) are pleasant, summer (December-February) is warm, and winter (June-August) is cold with snow.
March to May and September to November offer the best weather with pleasant temperatures.
December to February brings peak tourist season with warm weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
June to August offers lower prices but cold weather and snow.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Experience Queenstown's thrilling adventures, from bungee jumping to jet boating, discovering New Zealand's adventure capital
Discover Queenstown's rich culture, from Maori heritage to local traditions, experiencing authentic New Zealand
Discover Queenstown's stunning scenery, from Milford Sound to alpine vistas, experiencing New Zealand's natural beauty
Experience Queenstown's world-class skiing, from Remarkables to Coronet Peak, discovering New Zealand's ski paradise
Discover Queenstown's wine regions, from Central Otago to premium wineries, experiencing New Zealand's wine excellence
Walking is perfect for the town center. Organized tours include transportation, and car rental is useful for exploring.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
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