Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise

Imagine cruising across a shimmering lake, savoring a top-notch barbecue, and watching sheepdogs work in a picturesque farm setting — all in one go. That’s precisely what the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise promises and generally delivers, according to thousands of delighted reviews. This experience combines Queenstown’s stunning scenery, local flavors, and farm charm into a neat 3.5-hour package that’s hard to beat for value and variety.

We love that it offers a scenic boat ride, a hearty, locally-sourced buffet, and an entertaining farm demonstration — all in one. Plus, the views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains are genuinely breathtaking. The only drawback? The cruise can get crowded, especially during peak times, which might impact the tranquility some travelers seek. But overall, it’s ideal for families, foodies, and anyone keen to enjoy Queenstown from multiple angles.

If you’re after a well-rounded, authentic taste of Queenstown with a scenic twist, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially perfect if you’re keen on a good meal, a bit of farm fun, and gorgeous lake views all in one outing.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Lake Views: The cruise across Lake Wakatipu offers spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.
• Gourmet BBQ Buffet: Made from local and homegrown produce, offering generous portions and variety.
• Farm Demonstrations: Enjoy sheep shearing and sheepdog shows that add a fun, educational element.
• Flexible Timing: Available in morning, afternoon, or evening, catering to different schedules.
• Excellent Value: At $87 per person, it combines multiple experiences into one affordable package.
• Accessible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with wheelchair access and a relaxed pace.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown

The Lake Cruise: A Scenic Introduction

The adventure begins with your choice of cruise vessel — traditionally the historic TSS Earnslaw or the modern Spirit of Queenstown. Both ships are designed to provide a stable, comfortable ride across Lake Wakatipu. The reviews frequently highlight the stunning views and the informative commentary onboard as major highlights. Guests describe the cruise as “spectacular” and mention that the vessels are well equipped, with blankets available on chilly days to keep warm.

The cruise typically lasts about 45 minutes each way, offering ample time to soak in the mountain reflections, lush forests, and the calm waters. Some reviews note that the audio commentary can sometimes be hard to hear, especially on the Spirit vessel, so bringing a phone or extra earplugs might enhance the experience.

Arrival at Walter Peak High Country Farm

Once you arrive at Walter Peak, the setting immediately transports you to a colonial-era farm, complete with sweeping lawns and a charming old homestead. The Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant overlooks the lake and provides an ideal backdrop for the buffet. The smell of sizzling meats and fresh salads fills the air, as your chef prepares a gourmet BBQ buffet using fresh, local ingredients. Expect dishes like succulent meats cooked on a wood-fired BBQ, a wide selection of salads, vegetables, and an array of delicious desserts, including bread and cheese.

Farm Show and Demonstrations

One of the tour’s highlights, especially for families and animal lovers, is the farm demonstration. A sheep-herding display with highly skilled farm dogs keeps everyone entertained, with reviews often calling it “great fun” and “very informative.” Guests get to meet the farm animals, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

For those curious about farm life, the sheep shearing and herding shows offer insight into the daily work of a high-country farm. Reviewers mention that the farm staff are friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both entertaining and educational. Some guests note that the audio during the farm show** can be a bit faint, but the engaging dogs and lively demonstrations more than make up for it.

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Additional Relaxation

After lunch and the show, there’s usually time to wander the lakeside gardens or explore the grounds before reboarding for the return trip. The view of Queenstown’s mountains from the farm is a lovely addition to the day, with many guests describing it as “peaceful” and “beautiful”.

What to Expect on the Day

Transportation & Timing

Most tours run three times daily — morning, afternoon, and evening — giving flexibility to fit it into your schedule. The meeting point is at Steamer Wharf in Queenstown, right near the pier where the ships depart. The cruise duration is approximately 3.5 hours from start to finish, including the farm visit and meal.

Comfort & Accessibility

Both vessels are described as stable and comfortable, with blankets available on colder days. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advised to ask the provider in advance if you have specific needs. The non-slip shoes are recommended for walking around the farm.

Food & Drink

While the cost of drinks is not included, the buffet offers a generous range of local meats, salads, and desserts. Reviewers describe the food as “amazing,” with “more than enough to eat,” and praise the quality and freshness of the ingredients. For wine lovers, there is a good wine list available, though prices are on the higher side.

Weather & Cancellations

Since the cruise is weather-dependent, poor weather can lead to cancellations. Guests receive the option of rescheduling or a full refund if this occurs. Packing warm clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera will ensure you’re prepared regardless of conditions.

Authentic Experiences from Travelers

Many reviews mention the friendly, attentive staff and excellent guides. One reviewer specifically praised a guide named Jay, calling him “fun” and “informative,” which demonstrates the importance of knowledgeable hosts in enhancing the experience.

Others note the value for money, especially considering it combines a scenic cruise, excellent food, and farm demonstrations. A review from a visitor who was under repair on the TSS Earnslaw mentions that they were accommodated on a comfortable catamaran, illustrating the tour’s flexibility during maintenance periods.

Highlights from Reviewers

• “The boat was comfy, and the food was exquisitely prepared, with plenty of variety.”
• “The sheepdog show was great fun and very engaging for children and adults alike.”
• “The buffet was so delicious that I couldn’t stop eating; the meats were cooked to perfection.”
• “The views from the farm are just stunning, and the whole day felt very relaxed yet fulfilling.”
• “Even in cold weather, the cozy ship cabins made the trip enjoyable, and the hot drinks hit the spot.”

Notable Insights

One reviewer pointed out that during peak times, the crowd density on the boat can be high, which might reduce the sense of tranquility but doesn’t take away from the experience’s overall quality. Several guests also appreciated the thoughtfulness of staff, especially those with mobility issues, who reported excellent assistance and well-planned accommodations.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, gastronomy, and farm fun. It’s an especially good fit for families with children, food lovers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, multi-faceted day out near Queenstown. The value for money is excellent, given the combination of a lake cruise, hearty buffet, and farm demonstrations.

While it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels, travelers should be prepared for the weather, especially if visiting in cooler months. The timing flexibility makes it easy to incorporate into most itineraries, and the accessible facilities ensure everyone can enjoy the day.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that captures the essence of high-country life, combined with stunning scenery and excellent food, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is the cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. Non-slip shoes are also advised for walking around the farm.

Are the vessels wheelchair accessible?
Yes, both vessels are wheelchair accessible. It’s best to ask the provider in advance for specific needs.

Is the experience suitable for children?
Absolutely. The farm demonstrations and scenic cruise are family-friendly, and many reviews mention children loving the sheepdog show.

What drinks are available?
Drinks are not included in the tour price but can be purchased onboard. The buffet includes a range of salads, meats, and desserts, with a good wine list available at extra cost.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, including the cruise, farm visit, and meal.

Can I participate in the farm show?
Yes, the farm demonstration, including sheep shearing and dog herding, is part of the experience and designed to be engaging for all ages.

To sum it up, the Queenstown Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, authentic farm life, and hearty food at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for those wanting to see Queenstown from all angles — lakeside, farm, and mountain — without sacrificing comfort or quality. Whether you’re a foodie, family, or nature lover, this experience makes for a memorable day out in New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island.

You can check availability for your dates here: