Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Start your evening cruising along the waters of Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown aboard either the iconic vintage TSS Earnslaw steamship or the sleek Spirit of Queenstown.
Step inside the charming lakeside Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, where the enticing scent of wood-fired BBQ fills the air. Our chefs prepare a mouthwatering spread using the finest local ingredients, featuring a generous buffet of crisp salads, seasonal vegetables, and tender cuts of locally sourced meat. Don't forget the selection of desserts! With panoramic views of Lake Whakatipu and Queenstown’s alpine backdrop, the Colonel’s Homestead offers an idyllic setting steeped in colonial charm and surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds.
Your visit also includes a lively farm demonstration. Watch skilled farm dogs expertly herd sheep and get up close with friendly farm animals. If time allows, take a peaceful stroll through the lakeside gardens before boarding the vessel for your scenic return cruise to Queenstown.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 18 years to consume alcohol
Note: The experience is cash free and we reserve the right to refuse cash as a means of payment when purchasing products or services.
Note: The TSS Earnslaw will be undergoing scheduled maintenance 19 May to 1 October 2025, we have the modern vessel (Spirit of Queenstown) available throughout this time
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
BBQ buffet dinner
Cruise across lake on vessel of your choice (TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown)
Farm Show
Live commentary on board
Drinks
Begin your activity by checking in to our RealNZ Visitor Centre - 88 Beach Street, Queenstown. Board the vessel and travel across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm and return. Enjoy a delicious buffet meal before then watching the farm demonstration hosted by our specialist guides. The experience ends with the return trip across Lake Whakatipu, dropping you off at the same place you boarded in central Queenstown.
Cruise both ways on the spacious and modern Spirit of Queenstown Catamaran. Epic viewing platforms and onboard bar.
Cruise both ways on the iconic TSS Earnslaw, a coal-fired steamship that’s been a part of the region’s history since 1912
530 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
josmewing,
Oct 21, 2025
- Viator
We went for the 5pm trip. The boat is a lovely piece of history and the views of the mountain are spectacular. When we arrived at the farm we chose our table for the buffet. There was no need to rush to sit down. The range of food was extensive - starters, mains and puddings. The sticky toffee pudding is highly recommended. Then off to the lovely amphitheatre for the demos - again - no need to worry about getting a good seat. It can get cold- you can pick up blankets in the dining room, but its best to just wrap up. The show was entertaining, then back on the boat for the journey home. If you want you can have a sing song around the piano.
Andrew M,
Oct 20, 2025
- Viator
Wonderful experience. A beautiful cruise up the lake, wonderful food and the shearing show and time to wander around the farm was fantastic
Sam F,
Oct 19, 2025
- Viator
Absolutely amazing. Incredible food, beautiful views, and a lovely cruise there and back. 10/10 would recommend
Janette I,
Oct 8, 2025
- Viator
An incredible experience. Definitely the highlight of our 8 day trip to New Zealand. Highly Recommend. A very special experience
Frank S,
Oct 5, 2025
- Viator
Best part of the tour was the food buffet and the Sheep shearing demo. The cruise and views were also great.
Operated by RealNZ