Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

If you’re heading to Queenstown and looking for a blend of scenic beauty, history, and hearty food, the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Lake Cruise might just be your perfect day out. This experience promises a leisurely cruise aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw, a beautifully preserved vintage steamship, combined with a visit to Walter Peak High Country Farm for a delicious BBQ and some farmyard fun.

From what we’ve gathered, this tour offers a fantastic way to see Lake Wakatipu from the water, indulge in local flavors, and watch sheep herding and shearing demos that bring New Zealand’s rural charm to life. It’s popular for a reason—rated a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from over 1,196 reviews—and recommended by 95% of travelers. But, as with any tour, it’s not perfect for everyone.

We love the authenticity of traveling on a historic steamship and the delicious, thoughtfully prepared BBQ lunch. The scenic views across the lake are breathtaking, and the farm demonstrations are engaging and entertaining. One potential drawback? The tour can be slightly rushed, especially if you’re hoping for a very leisurely lunch or extra time exploring the farm’s gardens and gift shop.

This experience works best for travelers who enjoy a mix of picturesque landscapes, good food, and a taste of farm life—perfect for families, couples, or anyone wanting to tick off a quintessential Queenstown experience.

Key Points

• Vintage Steamship Journey: Travel across Lake Wakatipu on the historic, coal-fired TSS Earnslaw for an atmospheric and scenic cruise.
• Farm Demonstrations: Sheep shearing and herding demos add an authentic touch to your farm visit.
• Gourmet BBQ Lunch: Enjoy a chef-prepared meal featuring local New Zealand produce, with options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
• Flexible Departures: Choose between morning or afternoon options to suit your schedule.
• Educational and Entertaining: Live commentary and interpretive handouts in multiple languages enhance your understanding of the region.
• Great Value: For around $98, you get a scenic cruise, a delicious meal, and farm entertainment—making it a good deal.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

Your adventure begins with a cruise aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a ship that dates back to 1912, and is often called the “grand old lady” of Queenstown. We loved the way the boat’s vintage charm immerses you in the early days of New Zealand’s steam-powered maritime history. As the ship makes its way across the lake, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown’s surrounding mountains, with some reviewers noting the “breathtaking” scenery from every angle. It’s a relaxing, comfortable ride—inside the ship, you can explore the engine room and see the steam boilers working away, which is a treat for engineering buffs.

The cruise typically lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes each way, depending on your departure time. Getting there early is advised if you want a prime seat near an open window, as the boat can get quite busy, especially on sunny days.

Walter Peak Farm & BBQ Lunch

Once docked at Walter Peak, the real highlight begins. You’ll be seated on the terraces of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, with views straight across the lake. The new executive chef’s seasonal menu means you can expect a variety of salads, vegetables, and meats cooked on outdoor rotisseries or grills. Many reviews mention the quality and freshness of the food, with some calling the buffet “amazing” and “beautifully prepared.” Vegetarians are also well catered for, with a range of options.

The farm show is a lively addition, with sheep shearing demonstrations and sheepdog shows. One reviewer recalls the “great banter” and “just the right amount of time” spent watching the farm dogs herd sheep, adding an authentic glimpse into rural life.

Returning to Queenstown

After lunch and the farm show, you’ll cruise back across Lake Wakatipu to Queenstown. The return journey offers another chance to appreciate the lake’s shimmering waters and surrounding peaks. Many travelers note that the scenery remains stunning throughout, making this a truly picturesque experience.

Authenticity and Value

The TSS Earnslaw isn’t just a scenic cruise; it’s a piece of living history. Riding on one of the oldest coal-fired steamers in the Southern Hemisphere, with engines in full steam, makes the journey feel special. Several reviews highlight how seeing the engine room and coal fire in action is worth the trip alone.

The gourmet BBQ lunch is often praised as a highlight, with many reviewers saying it exceeded expectations. The variety and quality of the food make this a good value, especially considering the scenic setting. The buffet-style service means you can go back for seconds and enjoy a relaxed pace—though some note it can be a bit rushed during peak times.

The farm demonstrations, especially the sheep shearing, are well-paced and lively, making the farm visit more than just a sightseeing stop. Many mention their kids’ enjoyment and the fun banter of the farm staff.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book early—this tour is very popular, and spots fill quickly. Booking 24 hours in advance is recommended if you want to secure a preferred time.
• Arrive early for the cruise if you want a good seat, especially on sunny days.
• Choose your departure time based on your schedule; the morning offers a leisurely start, while the afternoon can be combined with other activities.
• Prepare for quick service at the buffet if you’re hungry for a leisurely meal; some say it feels a little rushed.
• Dietary needs are accommodated if you notify the provider in advance.
• Consider the cost-benefit: at around $98 per person, including the cruise, farm show, and a full buffet meal, many reviewers agree it’s good value for a full day’s worth of scenic and authentic experiences.

What Reviewers Say

Our favorite snippets from people who’ve taken this tour include comments like “The boat is quite the experience” and “The food was amazing.” Many praise the stunning lake views and the friendly, attentive staff. One reviewer mentioned that the “scenery was breathtaking”, and another said, “the highlight is seeing the working engine room.”

Some minor criticisms include the hurry to get through the buffet or the short length of the farm show, but overall, feedback is overwhelmingly positive. A few mention that the food can sometimes feel a bit rushed, but most agree it’s a small trade-off for the overall experience.

The Sum Up

The Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s natural beauty, history, and rural charm. The vintage steamship voyage is a memorable journey back in time, complemented by a delicious, well-cooked BBQ lunch and lively farm demonstrations.

It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxing, scenic day with a touch of local culture and culinary delight. Families, food lovers, and history buffs will find plenty to enjoy, and the value for money is hard to beat when you consider the included cruise, farm show, and meals.

While it’s not the place for those seeking a very slow, unhurried lunch or a long farm visit, it’s a highly recommended experience for anyone wanting a snapshot of Queenstown’s stunning landscape and authentic rural life. Just remember to book early, arrive prepared for busy times, and go with an appetite—because this tour delivers on scenery, history, and flavor.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including the lake cruise, farm visit, and lunch.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention children enjoying the farm show and the scenic boat ride, making it a family-friendly activity.

Can I choose between morning and afternoon departures?
Yes, you can select a departure time that best fits your schedule, whether in the morning or afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the cruise on the TSS Earnslaw, the gourmet BBQ lunch, the farm show, and live commentary on the boat.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian options are available, and you should notify RealNZ in advance for other dietary requirements.

Is there any extra cost during the tour?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase, but the tour price does not include them.

How crowded does it get?
The tour can host up to 100 travelers, and it’s advisable to arrive early for a good seat on the boat.

What makes the ship special?
The TSS Earnslaw is a historic coal-fired steamship from 1912, and exploring the engine room is a favorite part of the experience.

Is the food quality worth it?
Most reviews agree the quality and presentation of the buffet are excellent, with many calling it one of the best buffets in their travels.

Can I buy souvenirs or snacks?
Yes, there are gift shops and snack options available aboard the ship, but keep in mind that the ship is cashless, so cards are preferred.

This experience balances scenic beauty, engaging farm demonstrations, and a hearty meal—all set against the backdrop of New Zealand’s stunning landscapes. A true taste of Queenstown’s rural and maritime heritage, and ideal for a memorable day out.