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.
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.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
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
3 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
CynthiaLuft,,Jan 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
The view and the sauna combo is amazing! It can be a little rocky from the waves but it’s all part of the experience.
L9813WIhannaa,,Dec 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I 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!
Operated by Watershed Saunas