Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Eco Experience

Queenstown, a picturesque gem nestled in New Zealand’s South Island, beckons adventurers to explore its stunning natural wonders. One such experience that captivates visitors is the TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Eco Experience. This 3.5-hour journey blends the region’s rich heritage with eco-friendly activities, offering a unique connection to the land and its conservation efforts. From a scenic cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to immersive experiences at Walter Peak, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter with Queenstown’s breathtaking landscapes and a chance to delve deeper into the area’s commitment to sustainability.

Key Points

• A unique 3.5-hour tour that combines a scenic cruise on the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship and eco-focused activities at the Walter Peak estate.
• Highlights include tree planting, conservation education, and exploration of the restaurant garden, offering a hands-on experience with the local ecosystem.
• The tour features a delightful culinary experience with morning or afternoon tea and a light lunch, emphasizing locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
• With a 4.8/5 rating from previous visitors, the tour is praised for its scenic cruise, educational activities, and overall seamless experience.
• The tour encourages sustainability through direct participation in conservation efforts, such as tree planting and wildlife education, aligning with the region’s commitment to eco-tourism.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

The TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Walter Peak Eco Experience offers visitors a captivating 3.5-hour tour through Queenstown’s pioneering heritage and natural wonders.

Priced from NZ$7,500 per person, the experience includes a cruise across Lake Whakatipu on the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship, followed by an eco-focused adventure at the Walter Peak High Country Farm.

Led by a live English-speaking guide, the tour allows guests to plant native trees, learn about local conservation efforts, and explore the farm’s restaurant garden.

Refreshments, a light lunch, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance further enhance this immersive experience.

With an average rating of 4.8/5 from past visitors, this tour showcases the best of Queenstown’s natural and cultural riches.

Cruise Highlights

Crossing Lake Whakatipu aboard the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship transports visitors back to Queenstown’s pioneering past. The 45-minute cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak showcases the region’s dramatic natural landscapes, with the majestic Southern Alps as a breathtaking backdrop. The ship’s onboard licensed café offers refreshments, allowing guests to sit back and soak in the stunning scenery. The TSS Earnslaw, launched in 1912, is an icon of Queenstown’s history, providing a unique and authentic experience for all who embark on this journey.

Feature	Description
Ship	TSS Earnslaw, a century-old coal-fired steamship
Route	45-minute cruise from Queenstown to Walter Peak and return
Onboard Amenities	Licensed café offering refreshments
Historical Significance	Icon of Queenstown’s pioneering history, launched in 1912
Scenic Views	Dramatic natural landscapes and majestic Southern Alps

Eco-Friendly Activities

After the scenic cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw, visitors can engage in a range of eco-friendly activities at Walter Peak. These activities aim to educate and involve participants in conservation efforts, providing a meaningful connection to the local environment.

Visitors can plant a native tree or shrub, learning about the importance of reforestation. They’ll also explore the local wildlife and learn about New Zealand’s conservation initiatives.

Exploring the restaurant garden offers a glimpse into the farm-to-table process, and guests can access the farm animal area to interact with the resident creatures.

These hands-on experiences immerse visitors in the natural wonders of the region, fostering a deeper appreciation for the local ecosystem.

Culinary Delights

What truly completes the Walter Peak Eco Experience is the delectable culinary offerings that await visitors.

Guests can savor a morning or afternoon tea showcasing the region’s finest local produce, accompanied by home-baked breads and other rustic delights.

On top of that, a light yet satisfying lunch is served in the charming old woolshed, highlighting the farm-to-table philosophy that underpins the experience.

Whether it’s the freshly brewed coffee, the artisanal baked goods, or the locally sourced ingredients, the culinary aspect of the tour elevates the overall experience, ensuring visitors leave with not only a renewed appreciation for nature but also a satisfied palate.

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Reviews and Ratings

Visitors to the Walter Peak Eco Experience consistently rave about their memorable time on the tour, with an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating based on 6 reviews.

Travelers highlight the enjoyment of planting a native tree or shrub, learning about New Zealand’s wildlife and conservation efforts, and exploring the farm’s charming restaurant garden.

The scenic cruise aboard the century-old TSS Earnslaw steamship is also a standout, with visitors appreciating the onboard café and the overall picturesque journey across Lake Wakatipu.

With activities suitable for all ages and delightful culinary offerings, it’s no wonder this eco-focused experience earns such high praise from those who’ve had the pleasure of participating.

Tour Logistics

The TSS Earnslaw cruise and Walter Peak Eco Experience offer a convenient and seamless three-and-a-half-hour tour package, allowing visitors to enjoy Queenstown’s breathtaking natural landscapes and heritage.

The tour starts with a 45-minute cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the century-old coal-fired steamship, the TSS Earnslaw, which serves as an icon of the region’s pioneering history.

Upon arrival at Walter Peak, guests can enjoy a range of eco-friendly activities, including planting native trees, learning about local wildlife and conservation efforts, and exploring the on-site farm.

The experience is further enhanced by a delightful morning or afternoon tea, featuring local produce, and a light lunch served in the charming old woolshed.

Sustainability Efforts

At the heart of the Walter Peak Eco Experience lies a focus on sustainability, where visitors can directly participate in conservation efforts through planting native trees and learning about the region’s wildlife and eco-friendly initiatives.

As part of the experience, guests are invited to:

1. Plant a native tree or shrub to contribute to the reforestation of the area.

2. Explore the Restaurant Garden and observe the farm-to-table process, gaining insight into the property’s commitment to sustainability.

3. Access the farm animal area and learn about the property’s efforts to support local wildlife and conservation.

4. Enjoy a delicious light lunch featuring home-baked breads and local, fresh ingredients sourced from the property’s sustainable practices.

Visitor Tips

Those looking to make the most of their Walter Peak Eco Experience can begin by arriving early to allow ample time for the full range of activities.

Visitors should plan to spend 3-4 hours exploring the farm, participating in the reforestation effort, and learning about New Zealand’s native wildlife and conservation initiatives.

Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather, as the tour involves both indoor and outdoor components.

With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can book with confidence, knowing they can reschedule if needed.

Recap

The TSS Earnslaw Cruise and Walter Peak Eco Experience in Queenstown is a captivating adventure that blends history, nature, and sustainability.

Travelers can enjoy the region’s rich heritage, enjoy scenic lakeside views, and participate in eco-friendly activities like tree planting and wildlife education.

With delectable local cuisine and rave reviews, this tour offers an unforgettable connection with the stunning landscapes of Queenstown.

You can check if your dates are available here: