Floating Sauna & Lake Plunge Experience – Queenstown
Overview
1 hour 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
Watershed offers a rare floating sauna experience directly on Lake Whakatipu, with uninterrupted views across the lake to the surrounding alpine mountains.
Guests alternate between handcrafted Finnish saunas and cold plunges in the lake itself, creating a relaxed contrast therapy experience that’s very different from land-based spas.
Located just minutes walk from central Queenstown, Watershed combines easy access with a peaceful, open setting that feels far removed from the crowds.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The pontoon is wheelchair accessible, however these are not permitted inside the sauna.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Arrive at Watershed on St Omer’s Wharf and check in for your booked session time. Use the changing rooms and lockers provided, then meet your sauna host for a short safety briefing. Make your way to the floating sauna on Lake Whakatipu and begin your shared session. Spend time in the Finnish sauna, enjoying the heat and lake views. Cool down between rounds by relaxing on the deck, resting in the cool rooms, or using the plunge pools and lake access points. Move freely between heat, cold and rest as often as you like during your 60-minute session. At the end of the session, return to reception, change, and collect your belongings.
What‘s Included
Locker and changing room
Towel
Communal sauna session
Cold plunge pool and lake access
Swimwear
A refill station is available, but you are required to bring your own water bottle.
Parking
Options
Floating Sauna & Lake Plunge Experience – Queenstown
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
A Priceless View and an Unforgettable Experience
Scenic26592290785,,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I was shocked to learn that Watershed had only been open for six weeks upon my arrival but I have a feeling it will be there for years to come. I’ve experienced a sauna/cold plunge combo in several cities in different parts of the world, but this was by far the most breathtaking. First of all, the staff is wonderful. They were all so welcoming and seemed genuinely excited to offer an amazing experience. Second, the sauna itself was very clean and large enough to not feel cramped even though I was there with seven other people. You sit facing a pair of giant windows with the most unbelievable view… I’m not embarrassed to admit that I found myself crying at one point staring up at the mountains that surround Lake Wakatipu. They are located right at the edge of the center of Queenstown, meaning that they are isolated from the noise of the city and the lookout is unobstructed by any buildings, it’s just straight-up rocky mountains and reflective water. It allows you to experience the magic of Queenstown in a whole new way. And finally, the glacial plunge. I was lucky to catch it at the latter part of summer where the lake water was around 15° C, but there is nothing like dipping yourself in that crystal water. I think I was able to go back and forth between the plunge and the sauna four times before my 75 minutes was up. If you’re considering it at all, I cannot recommend it enough! Thank you for an experience I will remember for the rest of my life ❤️
Top experience of my Queenstown visit.
Joanne F,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00. This was a peak experience - the views from the sauna are unsurpassable and the water was deliciously cold. The staff - Tobias and Nick were friendly and helpful This is a must-do activity in Queenstown.
Goin back for more
CynthiaLuft,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The view and the sauna combo is amazing! It can be a little rocky from the waves but it’s all part of the experience.
Just WOW! Absolute Queenstown must do!
L9813WIhannaa,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I visited the brand new Watershed Sauna in Queenstown and just WOW! It was amazing! Everything about it was fantastic, and the views were absolutely incredible. I can’t wait to go back again. Highly recommend it to anyone visiting Queenstown!
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