Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise

An Honest Look at a Beloved Queenstown Experience

If you’re considering a day out in Queenstown that combines stunning scenery, good food, and a taste of farm life, the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise is likely to catch your eye. This experience offers more than just a scenic boat ride; it’s a chance to enjoy a hearty meal in a historic setting while watching sheepdogs herd sheep and exploring a traditional high-country farm.

What we love about this trip is how smoothly it blends different elements — a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu, a delicious BBQ buffet, and engaging farm demonstrations. There’s also an option to enjoy the voyage on either an historic steamship or a modern catamaran, giving you some flexibility depending on your interests and budget.

One potential consideration is weather dependency: the cruise is contingent on good weather, and if the conditions aren’t favorable, you might need to reschedule or opt for a different experience.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate local flavors, scenic vistas, and family-friendly activities. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting a relaxed, all-in-one day that mixes nature, good food, and rural charm.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful Lake Cruising: Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu on a historic steamship or a modern vessel.
• Gourmet BBQ Buffet: Feast on local meats, fresh salads, vegetables, and delicious desserts.
• Farm Demonstrations: Watch sheep-herding dogs in action and meet high-country farm animals.
• Flexible Vessels & Dining Options: Choose between the traditional TSS Earnslaw or the newer Spirit of Queenstown.
• Family Friendly & Accessible: Suitable for all ages, with easy access and wheelchair options.
• Great Value & Authenticity: Combines scenic transportation, hearty food, and farm entertainment into one package.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

Your journey kicks off at the RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre, conveniently located at 88 Beach Street, just a minute’s walk from the departure vessels. After a quick check-in, you’ll board one of two vessels: the classic TSS Earnslaw, built in 1912 and powered by coal, or the Spirit of Queenstown, a more contemporary catamaran.

The choice of vessel impacts the experience slightly: the Earnslaw offers a nostalgic voyage with working steam engines, appealing to those who love history and engineering, while the Spirit provides a sleek, modern cruise with contemporary comfort. Both options include a scenic cruise lasting around 45 minutes each way, with onboard bars for drinks and snacks, so you can sip something while soaking in the views.

The Scenic Lake Cruise

The cruise across Lake Wakatipu is a highlight in itself. Expect to see reflections of the surrounding mountains, with Queenstown’s alpine backdrop framing the waters. Reviewers frequently mention how this part of the trip feels like stepping into a postcard, with some noting the engine room of the TSS Earnslaw as an extra treat if you’re on that vessel.

Many travelers comment that the scenery is breathtaking, and the chance to relax on deck with a drink makes this part of the journey quite enjoyable. It’s a laid-back way to switch gears from busy sightseeing to a peaceful boat ride, and you don’t need to be a boat enthusiast to appreciate the charm.

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Arriving at Walter Peak High Country Farm

Once at Walter Peak, the atmosphere shifts from scenic to rustic. The Colonels Homestead Restaurant stands out with its colonial architecture and sweeping grounds, offering a perfect setting for a hearty meal. As you step inside, fragrant aromas from the BBQ will start to tease your senses.

The gourmet buffet is well-regarded, with a variety of local meats like lamb, pork, beef, and even seafood options such as salmon and mussels, cooked on the wood-fired BBQ. The sides include fresh salads, vegetables, and an impressive selection of cheeses and desserts. Reviewers rave about the generous portions and high quality, with one noting it’s “the best buffet they’ve ever enjoyed” and others emphasizing the variety that caters to different tastes and dietary needs.

The farm show is another highlight. You’ll see farm dogs demonstrate sheep herding, which is surprisingly entertaining and educational. The sheep shearing is also part of the entertainment, giving visitors a glimpse of high-country farm life. Several reviews mention how engaging and well-organized these demonstrations are, making it fun for children and adults alike.

Exploring the Gardens and Farm

If you have time after the show, wandering through the lakeside gardens offers a peaceful way to enjoy the stunning scenery. The grounds are beautifully maintained, and many reviews highlight how picturesque the setting is, especially with the mountains as a backdrop.

Returning to Queenstown

After exploring, you’ll reboard your vessel for the return trip across the lake, often with the chance to enjoy more views and perhaps some music or sing-alongs on the way back. The whole experience lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a comfortable half-day activity that leaves plenty of room for other adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Scenic and Historic Voyage

Traveling on the TSS Earnslaw or Spirit of Queenstown offers a chance to appreciate Queenstown’s natural beauty from the water. The engine rooms of the Earnslaw attract history buffs, while the modern vessel** provides a more contemporary, comfortable cruise. Either way, the views of the surrounding mountains and lakes are superb, and many reviewers describe the cruise as “fabulous” and “spectacular.”

Generous Gourmet Buffet

The BBQ buffet consistently earns praise for its quality and variety. Both meat-eaters and vegetarians find satisfying options, with clear labeling for allergens. The desserts—ranging from fresh bread and cheeses to sweet treats—are another highlight. Several reviews remark that the food exceeds expectations for a buffet, with some calling it “the best they’ve ever had.”

Engaging Farm Demonstrations

Watching sheepdogs herd sheep and sheep shearing demonstrations adds an authentic farm element that delights visitors of all ages. The demonstrations are well-paced, informative, and often humorous—especially if you’re lucky enough to see the dogs in action. One reviewer describes the sheep herding as “amazing to see in action,” highlighting the skill and teamwork involved.

Ease and Flexibility

The tour’s schedule is straightforward, starting at the visitor center, then cruising, dining, and returning—all within about 3.5 hours. The reservation options allow you to choose between the historic steamship or the modern boat, appealing to different preferences and budgets.

Family-Friendly and Accessible

The experience is suitable for all ages, with many reviews noting children’s fascination with the farm show and the boat ride. The site is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the day.

Analyzing the Costs and Value

The price points vary between vessels: approximately $159 per adult for the Spirit of Queenstown, or $189–$199 for the TSS Earnslaw. While the steamship’s price is slightly higher, many guests feel it’s worth it for the authentic steam-powered experience and historical charm.

The buffet and farm show are included, making the overall value quite good considering the scenic cruise, entertainment, and meal bundled into one ticket. Several reviewers have called it “great value,” emphasizing that the quality of food and the variety of activities justify the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who enjoy scenic views combined with good food and family-friendly activities. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxing day with a mix of history, nature, and farm life. Couples looking for a romantic yet casual outing will also find it appealing, especially with the option to choose a more historic vessel.

Concluding Thoughts

The Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of Queenstown’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and rural charm. It’s a memorable way to enjoy a scenic boat ride coupled with a hearty, locally sourced meal and engaging farm demonstrations. The combination of stunning vistas, knowledgeable guides, and excellent food makes it a standout activity for many travelers.

While weather can impact the experience, most reviews suggest that even in less-than-perfect conditions, the ride and the farm show remain enjoyable. The tour’s flexible options, including vessel choice and meal times, add to its appeal. Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or someone looking to connect with Queenstown’s high-country heritage, this tour is likely to leave you with great memories—and perhaps a full belly.

FAQs

Is the cruise weather-dependent? Yes, the cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you can choose an alternative date or get a full refund.

What vessels are available? You can choose between the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown. Both provide scenic cruises, with the Earnslaw offering a classic steam experience.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes about 3.5 hours, including both lake crossings, dining, and farm demonstrations.

Is the experience suitable for children? Absolutely. The farm show and boat ride are engaging for all ages, and the tour is designed to be family-friendly.

Do I need to reserve in advance? Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there wheelchair access? The tour is wheelchair accessible. For specific needs, you can contact the provider for detailed arrangements.

What should I bring? Dress warmly, especially if visiting in cooler months. Sunglasses, camera, and sunscreen are also recommended.

Can I explore the gardens at Walter Peak? Yes, after the farm show, you’re encouraged to walk through the lakeside gardens if time permits.

Is vegetarian or special diet food available? The buffet includes options for vegetarians, and allergen information is provided to cater to dietary restrictions.

In sum, the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise offers a classic Queenstown experience—combining scenery, history, and hearty local food—perfect for those who want a relaxed yet memorable day in New Zealand’s South Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby