Queenstown · BOAT TOURS IN QUEENSTOWN
Everything that leaves from the Steamer Wharf, in one list. These 15 run from a fast catamaran loop to a farm lunch across the water, each priced and clear on how long you are actually afloat.
Cruise Lake Whakatipu to Walter Peak for a local BBQ buffet, farm dog show, and scenic return aboard a steamship or catamaran.
“boat trip and delicious bbq lunch with shearing and dogwork show and time to see farm animals. A really great trip and food was top quality.”
Race through Shotover Canyon on a 25-minute jet boat ride with 360-degree spins, rapids, cliff views, and optional Queenstown shuttle pickup.
“Great fun but not for the faint hearted! You might get wet - my husband did. Well organised and the driver was very experienced.”
Review of Altitude Tours’ small-group Milford Sound day trip from Queenstown, with scenic stops, picnic lunch, and a 1 hour 45 minute cruise.
“We had an incredible time! Chase was our guide and he ensured we stayed on track with the schedule and were able to experience the entire itinerary. The trip was seamless and the weather was perfect. Chase was knowledgeable, courteous, and a great driver! I would highly recommend this tour compared to the big bus options.”
Fly from Queenstown over the Southern Alps, cruise Milford Sound, and return by a different scenic route in this efficient half-day tour.
“Holy cow was this awesome! The beauty of Milford Sound is unmatched. The plane was an amazing way to experience the beauty of the mountains. Our pilot Andrew was incredible and very friendly and knowledgeable. The boat was a little crowded, but it was comfortable nonetheless. One of my favorite things we did in NZ!”
Review of KJet’s Queenstown jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and two rivers, with 360 spins, mountain views, practical tips, and value advice.
“Easy location, excellent customer service by phone and in person. The guide was very friendly and considerate. It was absolutely awesome!!! You are bound to get wet especially if you are sitting in a corner so be prepared. We loved it though.”
Review of RealNZ’s Queenstown to Milford Sound coach and cruise, with scenic stops, guide tips, costs, comfort, and practical advice.
“Craig was our driver and he was very good , really safe driver no messing about and was a genuinely nice man.”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound over the Southern Alps, cruise beneath waterfalls, and return by a different scenic route.
“One of the best experiences of our holiday. only way to do Milford sound i think. Amazing”
Cruise Lake Wakatipu from Queenstown for mountain views, lakeside homes, birdlife, live commentary, and a warm cabin in 90 minutes.
“I was hesitant to sign up as I’m not a “wine” connoisseur. But, it was one of the best half day tours I’ve gone on. Our guide, Ben was knowledgeable and entertaining. The wineries were each unique. The third winery, with the cheese board snack, was great! I went by myself and by the end of the day we were all friends!”
Cruise Lake Whakatipu aboard the coal-fired TSS Earnslaw, with mountain views, engine-room access, onboard music, and useful Queenstown tips.
“Amazing weather for the cruise. The staff were really helpful & everyone was super friendly. The information about Lake Whakatipu was great too. I loved that you could see the guys working below deck, great for kids if you have them. Definitely worth the money & really glad I did it!”
Race through Shotover Canyon at 90kmh on a 25-minute jet boat ride with 360-degree spins, expert drivers, and Queenstown transport options.
“Lots of fun, you don’t get too wet so don’t let that put you off. Our driver was very skilled and told us lots about the surrounding areas. He was very friendly and answered all the questions about the boat.”
Cruise Lake Wakatipu on the TSS Earnslaw, enjoy a gourmet BBQ at Walter Peak, and watch sheepdogs work in a classic Queenstown outing.
“Great day out for the whole family. Highlight is seeing the working engine room. Breathtaking views of the lake from all over the boat.”
Cruise Lake Whakatipu, visit Walter Peak Farm, meet sheep and alpacas, watch working dogs, and enjoy afternoon tea in rural New Zealand.
“So much fun!! Seeing the animals was excellent -they are all well cared for and enjoyed interacting with people. The sheep dog herding and shearing exhibit was really amazing. The steam boat is really cool. Food was excellent, views beautiful- highly recommend!”
Review of the Milford Sound coach and cruise from Queenstown, with scenic stops, lunch, guide tips, costs, comfort, weather, and value.
“Mixed review. Not happy with the lunch given. Lunch given at around 2:45pm. Atleast give some good options. The variety of pies could be chicken, veg or steak and cheese. Too poor for the price charged. The travel was good and cruise was lovely. The coach was disappointing as no glass coach. I need a refund. This was not what we were expecting.”
Ride Skippers Road into historic Skippers Canyon, then speed through narrow Shotover River gorges on a 30-minute jet boat adventure.
“This was excellent value - a unique drive experience and lots of fun on the jetboat. There were narrow canyons and a little whitewater with a very experienced boat pilot who made sure we had some thrills. It was a generous amount of time on the boat and some incredible views and history on the road. My favorite tour in NZ.”
Fly from Queenstown to Milford Sound, cruise beneath waterfalls, enjoy lunch, and return by a scenic route in about five hours.
“Milford Sound is worth the trip! The weather was great for the flight. Seeing the mountains and land from above is wonderful. The cruise out Milford Sound is very nice. I’d love to see it again in different seasons.”
Pick a boat, a rotor, a track or a cellar door.
