Lake Wanaka Cruises & Water Activities: Your Guide

Relax with a drink as you bask in the evening light on the lake! This one hour cruise has one wine, beer, RTD or soft drink included in the ticket and is a great way to see the lake scenery before your evening meal. The cruise is fully licensed so further drinks can be purchased on board for just $7.

Come and join us on a trip to our favourite place on Lake Wanaka, Mou Waho Island.Where you can find an island, on a lake, on an island, on a lake, on an island on the sea! Mou Waho Island is a protected nature reserve and is home to many native New Zealand birds including the curious and flightless Weka. A short walk takes you to the top of the island where you will be exposed to breathtaking panoramic views of the Arethusa pool, Lake Wanaka and its surrounding peaks. Our water taxi leaves Wanaka Marina twice-daily travelling 15km up Lake Wanaka, passing Mou Tapu Island and the steep cliff of fisherman's cove to Mou Waho Island. Your friendly and knowledgeable skipper will inform you of the fascinating geology of the alps and the glaciers that created the lake as you travel along its sparkling waters. Trip includes a 1.5+ hour freedom walk on the island. Note: Christmas Day Mou Waho Island Tour includes a Xmas picnic and will run a bit longer so we can all celebrate together.  

Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world greatest scenery. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80 kph, now picture doing this down New Zealand’s swiftest river with no seat belt and no brakes; that’s one way to get your adrenaline levels through the roof. Our trip makes the best of blood pumping adrenaline along with some of the world’s best scenery in the background.

Enjoy a 2 hour small group cruise and nature walk to Stevensons island. Once aboard the luxury catamaran, guests will relax in comfort and enjoy a 45 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery followed by a guided tour to the island summit with outstanding photo opportunities. Once back to your vessel enjoy complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits while you cruise back to Wanaka. Licensed bar with happy hour prices available as well.

Fly further and see more when you fly with us from Wanaka. Fly to Milford Sound through two of New Zealand’s most picturesque national parks. View alpine lakes nestled amongst snowcapped mountain peaks and pristine glaciers, with vast rain forest and cascading waterfalls visible from every seat! Locally owned with an excellent safety record. Mount Cook + Fox Franz & Tasman Glaciers and Mount Aspiring & Glaciers are other options available, giving you the opportunity to view huge, untouched vistas of land.

Take a leisurely 45 minute cruise out to Stevensons Arm, home to Mount Burke high country sheep station. Enjoy some of Wanaka's world famous scenery including Mount Gold which rises majestically into the Northern skyline. The commentary will inform you about Lake Wanaka and the surrounding scenery. Relax in comfort as you cruise to Stevensons Island where Dual Image will make a beach landing. Stevensons Island is an inspiration for photographers - shaped by glaciation and eons of winds that funnel down the arm, rock and twisted trunks meld into a patina of nature's finest backdrops. Your scenic cruise is complete with tea, coffee and cookies or enjoy a $6 drink from the bar as you cruise back to Wanaka. This luxury boat cruise is the most relaxing way to experience the scenery of Lake Wanaka and frequently rates in the top ten things to do in Wanaka!

Cruise to unique Mou Waho Island for a guided nature walk to the natural glacial lake on top of the island . Once aboard our fast lake cruiser, guests can relax in comfort and enjoy a 30 minute cruise among spectacular mountain scenery with commentary on local history, geology and culture. On the island you will have 2 hours ashore for a guided walk. Learn about the island and its unique bird-life from our knowledgeable guides as you hike to the summit enjoying outstanding photo opportunities. Mou Waho Island is a predator-free Department of Conservation nature reserve with a natural glacial formed lake at its summit. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the Mountain Stone Weta and many other native birds. Please note that the walk goes up 150 m vertically over 1 km.

This is the most popular cruise when time is limited, the Ruby Island Cruise is a great way to explore the outstanding scenery of Lake Wanaka, New Zealand in just over 1-Hour. Guests will enjoy a guided tour of the island with many photo opportunities on this small-group tour. The grade is easy and suitable for children and seniors as well.

Enjoy a comfortable cruise on our 28 seat super taxi Moutimu and a knowledgeable Kiwi skipper to answer your questions along the way. Cruise through outstanding mountain scenery to the remote Mou Waho Island nature reserve. We are contracted to the Department of Conservation and every guest contributes to funding the conservation work on Mou Waho Island ensuring that it is a predator-free conservation area for our unique native birds and other fauna. Here you can see first-hand results of conservation efforts including the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920), the Mountain Stone Weta and many other native birds. A two hour self-guided nature walk is included and this will take you up to the natural glacial lake right on top of the island and magnificent mountain and lake scenery in every direction. This is rated as one of the top activities by visitors to Wanaka and rated among the best Wanaka walks and hikes.

tart your journey on the calm waters of Lake Wānaka, where mist lingers on the surface and the mountains rise all around you. In just three hours, you’ll cast your line into some of the most scenic fishing waters in New Zealand. With expert guidance and top-quality gear, you’ll learn proven techniques like trolling and downrigging to target trout and salmon. Our boat is powered by a quiet electric trolling motor, letting you glide silently through the water—perfect for sneaking up on fish and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. As you fish beneath the peaks of Roys Peak, Mount Aspiring, and Treble Cone, you’ll feel far from the crowds, fully immersed in nature. With small groups (max 6 people), snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks included, this trip is designed for comfort, focus, and the thrill of the catch. It’s not just a fishing trip—it’s a moment of calm, a burst of excitement, and a memory made in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

Ride on possibly the best 1-day bike ride in New Zealand with our exclusive Hawea River Track adventure. We've crafted a unique experience by combining three different tracks, inventing a great ride that others now emulate. This leisurely exploration of Wanaka's scenic wonders offers stunning views along the gentle riverside track, showcasing the Upper Clutha's natural beauty. Join us for a pickup at 9 am, 11 am, or 2 pm from your accommodation. A 15-minute drive takes you to the wild and beautiful Lake Hawea, where you'll cruise along the Hawea River Track on an easy 30 km ride back to Wanaka town. A year-round delight, this classic Wanaka ride includes a strategic stop at Wanaka's best bakery for coffee and pastries. Once back in Wanaka town, just let us know, and we'll ensure you get a safe ride home. Experience the pinnacle of New Zealand's biking adventures, combining innovation and breathtaking landscapes for a day to remember

Lake Cruise and Mou Waho Island Nature Walk • A “must see” in Wanaka, take a 30 minute cruise to the remote, predator free Mou Waho Island, home to the rare and flightless Buff Weka (extinct on mainland NZ). • Optional one hour return guided bush walk, taking you up to reveal the island’s secret- a lake on top of the island! • Morning (or afternoon) tea supplied, overlooking both lakes. • Plant a native tree on the island as part of this unique eco-experience! • Departures 9.00am and 1.30pm, allow 4 hours.

Explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand's South Island over three immersive days. From the turquoise waters of Lake Tekapo to the charming streets of Arrowtown, tailor your adventure to suit your pace and interests. Enjoy half-day tours of Glenorchy’s dramatic scenery and Wanaka's lakeside beauty, plus a full-day journey to Mt. Cook National Park. - 3-day private tour exploring Glenorchy, Wanaka, and Lake Tekapo - Flexible itinerary with customizable stops and activities - Daily hotel pick-up from Queenstown, returning each evening - Discover iconic sights and enjoy lakeside walks and stargazing opportunities Your local guide will pick you up each morning from your Queenstown accommodation in a comfortable vehicle, making stops at breathtaking lookouts and hidden gems along the way. Enjoy the flexibility to customize your tour with optional activities and plenty of time for photos, walks, and local cafés.

Wanaka fishing charters offer a distinctive angling experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s Southern Alps. The pristine waters of Lake Wānaka and Lake Hāwea are home to diverse fish species, including brown and rainbow trout, as well as salmon, catering to anglers of all skill levels. Guided by seasoned experts, these charters provide valuable insights into the best fishing spots and techniques, enhancing the overall experience. This combination of scenic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and professional guidance makes Wanaka fishing charters a unique and memorable adventure.