Evening Champagne Cruise on Historic 1935 Motor Yacht.

Imagine stepping aboard a beautifully preserved vessel built in 1935, cruising across the tranquil waters of Lake Te Anau, and feeling transported back to another era of style and grace. That’s what you get with the Evening Champagne Cruise on the historic 1935 motor yacht Faith. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill boat trip; it’s a carefully curated experience that combines history, comfort, and scenic beauty—all wrapped in a 1.5-hour package perfect for a special evening.

What we love about this cruise is how it manages to feel both intimate and luxurious, with knowledgeable hosts who share stories of the boat’s past while making sure you’re comfortable and well-fed. The chance to help steer and sail Faith adds a dash of hands-on adventure that’s hard to find on typical boat tours. Plus, the setting—anchored in a sheltered cove—offers a peaceful escape where you can truly unwind and soak in the golden sunset hues over Te Anau.

One thing to keep in mind is that, like all outdoor activities, this cruise is weather dependent. Clear skies enhance the experience, but remember that the magic can be a little subdued if rain clouds roll in. Despite that, this tour suits those who crave a blend of history, scenic tranquility, and a touch of elegance—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Authentic Historic Experience: Cruising on the Faith, a 1935 Scottish motor yacht, offers a rare glimpse into maritime craftsmanship of the 1930s.
• Scenic & Relaxing: Enjoy stunning views of Lake Te Anau bathed in evening light, perfect for photography or simply unwinding.
• Gourmet Refreshments: Sip champagne and nibble on gourmet canapés, with dietary requirements easily accommodated.
• Interactive & Personal: Participate in steering or sailing Faith, making the tour engaging beyond just sightseeing.
• Knowledgeable Hosts: Guides share fascinating stories about the boat’s past, adding depth to your experience.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Its intimate setting, beautiful ambiance, and excellent reviews make it a hit for romantic evenings or memorable gatherings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Cruise Experience

The adventure begins at Te Anau’s historic wharf, where you’ll meet your hosts and step aboard this vintage vessel. The boat itself is an eye-catcher—well-preserved, with details that echo the 1930s, from the woodwork to the traditional fittings. It’s clear the owners take pride in maintaining the ship’s authentic charm, which contributes significantly to the atmosphere.

Once onboard, you’ll quickly notice the warm, inviting environment. The cruise departs in the late afternoon, giving you the chance to witness the lake and surrounding landscapes as they transition into evening. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

The journey involves a leisurely cruise around Lake Te Anau, with the highlight being the anchoring in a sheltered cove. Here, the crew unfurls a small sail and prepares the gourmet canapés and drinks. The menu typically includes a selection of sweet and savory snacks, with champagne or other drinks available to suit your preference. Several reviews mention the excellent quality of the snacks and drinks, with many praising the attentive service.

A key feature of this cruise is the opportunity for guests to participate in helping steer or sail Faith. For those curious or eager to learn, it’s a unique chance to get a hands-on feel for yachting—a delightful addition that sets this experience apart from more passive tours. The crew is friendly and eager to share stories about the boat’s history, the Lake’s natural beauty, and their own adventures.

As the boat drifts in the calm waters, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the golden sunset, which bathes the landscape in warm light. Many guests describe this as a truly magical moment, perfect for photos or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The silence, broken only by gentle waves and occasional storytelling, makes it a perfect retreat from the busier sights of New Zealand.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable yet memorable outing. The experience begins at the historic wharf—an area that itself has a charming, old-world feel. After a brief introduction from the crew, the vessel departs, slowly making its way across the lake.

The cruise itself is flexible; the boat can motore and sail, providing a dynamic experience. The captain and crew are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the boat’s journey from the UK to New Zealand, its craftsmanship, and the local environment. Several reviewers note how engaging and personable the guides are, often going beyond mere facts to share personal stories or entertain with music—such as a bagpiper serenading guests onboard.

Much of the time is spent relaxing in the tranquil waters, with intermittent stops in scenic coves. These quiet spots are perfect for enjoying the snacks, chatting, or simply taking in the natural beauty. The boat’s classic design ensures a smooth ride, appreciated by those who dislike rough waters.

When anchored, the crew tend to unfold the sails for a brief sail back, adding a traditional touch to the cruise. This part is especially popular with guests who appreciate authentic sailing experiences, rather than just motoring in a modern vessel.

At the end of the cruise, you return to the wharf, feeling like you’ve stepped back in time—a fitting end to an experience that combines history, scenery, and refined leisure.

What Past Guests Are Saying

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly crew, highlighting their ability to share stories about the vessel and the region. Melissa from New Zealand mentions, “Our hosts were great and we really appreciated hearing about the storied history of the boat. Service was lovely.” Claire, visiting from the US, calls it “amazing,” noting how “the boat is super cool and the owners give a good history about the boat.”

Many guests emphasize the scenic beauty of Lake Te Anau at sunset. Natasha from the UK describes it as “a very special cruise on a historic boat,” while Linda from the US says, “My daughter & I absolutely loved it! Capt. Adam serenaded us with bagpipes—truly memorable.”

Several reviews highlight the value for money: guests feel the combination of scenic views, historical insight, good food, and personalized service makes this cruise a worthwhile splurge. Robert from the US calls it “one of the highlights of our NZ trip,” and Gareth from New Zealand mentions it was “the highlight of our honeymoon.”

The ability to participate in sailing proves a hit for many, with one guest noting that Captain Paul shared fascinating details about the boat’s history, while others enjoyed the canapé selection and drinks—noted as being of good quality and offering options for all dietary needs.

Practical Details & Tips for Travelers

• Meeting Point & Timing: Arrive 15 minutes early at the historic wharf in Te Anau. The exact coordinates are -45.41777420043945, 167.71192932128906.
• Duration: The cruise lasts 1.5 hours, making it an easy addition to your day without feeling rushed.
• Weather: Since all cruises are weather-dependent, keep an eye on the forecast. Clear evenings enhance the experience, but the crew will make the best of conditions.
• What to Bring: A jacket is recommended, especially as the temperature can drop in the early evening.
• Accessibility: The vessel is wheelchair accessible, so it’s suitable for a broad range of travelers.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve now and pay later—ideal if your plans are flexible. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, adding peace of mind.

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Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, elegant outing with a hint of adventure. It’s especially suited for couples celebrating an occasion, history buffs interested in vintage vessels, or anyone wanting to combine scenery with a touch of luxury. Small groups and families will appreciate the intimate setting, while solo travelers might enjoy striking up conversations with the crew and other guests.

If you’re after a romantic sunset, a cultural connection, or simply an offbeat way to see Lake Te Anau, this cruise hits all those notes. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for good value — you’re paying for both the experience and the stories, delivered with genuine warmth and passion.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for children? The tour is generally family-friendly, but given the elegant setting and focus on relaxation, parents should consider whether the 1.5-hour duration suits their kids.

Can I participate in sailing the boat? Yes, guests are invited to help steer and sail Faith, adding a fun, hands-on element to the cruise.

What should I wear? A jacket is recommended as evenings can be cool, especially on open decks.

Is it wheelchair accessible? Yes, the vessel is wheelchair accessible, making it easy for a variety of travelers to enjoy.

What happens if the weather is bad? The cruise is weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the operator will accommodate rescheduling or refunds if canceled within the policy.

Are dietary requirements accommodated? Absolutely—just ask in advance, and the crew will ensure your snacks and drinks suit your needs.

Final Thoughts

This cruise offers a delightful mix of history, scenery, and refined leisure. The chance to glide across Lake Te Anau on a meticulously preserved 1935 vessel, sipping champagne and listening to engaging stories, turns a simple boat ride into a memorable occasion. It’s especially well-suited for those who value authenticity, comfort, and a touch of elegance.

While it may not be the cheapest activity in the region, the thoughtful details—good food, friendly guides, scenic views, and the chance to get hands-on sailing—make it a standout option. Whether celebrating a special night or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this cruise promises a relaxing, enriching experience you’ll remember long after the boat has docked.

Final Summary

The Evening Champagne Cruise on Faith offers a charming, authentic glimpse into New Zealand’s maritime past while providing stunning views and personalized service. It’s best for those who appreciate history, scenic tranquility, and a touch of luxury. With excellent reviews praising the guides, scenery, and value, this experience makes for a memorable highlight during your stay around Lake Te Anau. Suitable for couples, small groups, and anyone eager for an elegant, intimate outing, it’s worth considering if your schedule allows for a relaxed, scenic evening on the water.

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