15 Of The Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Queenstown

Queenstown, on the South Island of New Zealand, isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping activities; it’s also a fantastic place to explore from the water. Picture cruising across shimmering Lake Wakatipu with a drink in hand, or soaring above snow-capped peaks on a scenic flight—these experiences show off Queenstown’s dramatic landscapes from a new perspective. We especially love the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise for combining a delicious farm-to-table meal with stunning lake views, and the Milford Sound flights and cruises for their jaw-dropping scenery both from the air and water. Whether you’re after a leisurely boat trip or an adrenaline rush, Queenstown’s waters have something for all.

Quick Overview

This list features luxury cruises, adrenaline-filled jet boats, scenic flights, and combo experiences that blend land, water, and sky. Expect options like the Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise for a mix of food and scenery, the Milford Sound full-day coach and cruise for a classic fiord experience, and high-speed jet boat adventures like the Shotover River Jet Boat Ride. Below, we’ll walk through each one, highlighting what makes them special.

1. Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise

This tour is a true Queenstown classic, combining a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu with a gourmet BBQ at Walter Peak High Country Farm. Starting at the RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre, you’ll cruise across the lake for about 45 minutes, enjoying stunning mountain vistas. Once ashore at Walter Peak, you’ll indulge in a buffet of local and homegrown produce, including tender meats and fresh salads. After lunch, there’s the chance to see a farm dog show demonstrating life on a working farm, which is surprisingly entertaining. If you prefer a more refined experience, morning or afternoon tea at the historic woolshed is also included. This tour is rated 4.8/5, and reviewers love the blend of nature, food, and farm life. It’s particularly suited for those wanting a relaxing, all-in-one experience that combines scenery with excellent food.

Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for anyone wanting a scenic lake cruise paired with a hearty farm-to-table meal and farm demonstrations.

2. Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

This full-day trip hits the spot for those wanting to see Milford Sound without the hassle of driving. For around $144 per person, you’ll enjoy a scenic coach ride through Fiordland National Park, renowned for its waterfalls, rainforests, and towering cliffs. The highlight is the 2-hour cruise on Milford Sound, where you’ll spot native wildlife like seals, dolphins, and if lucky, penguins. The guides provide engaging commentary, making this a comprehensive experience. The coach includes a glass roof to get the best views during the journey. With a 4.7/5 review rating from over 2,500 travelers, this tour offers excellent value and convenience for travelers who prefer a relaxed, guided day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to relax and see Milford Sound with minimal planning, enjoying a balanced mix of scenery, wildlife, and commentary.

3. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

For a truly memorable experience, this 5-hour tour combines return scenic flights with a cruise in Milford Sound. Departing from Queenstown, you’ll take a window-seat flight over snow-capped peaks, lakes, and waterfalls—an experience rated 4.9/5. Guests rave about the breathtaking views and the chance to see Fiordland from both sky and water. Once at Milford Sound, a 2-hour cruise offers up-close views of waterfalls and wildlife, with complimentary tea, coffee, and water onboard. The flight guarantees window seats and offers spectacular photo opportunities. This tour is perfect for those who want a high-quality, all-encompassing experience with a focus on scenery.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking scenic grandeur from the air and water in a shorter, high-impact trip.

4. Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

If you crave adrenaline, this 1-hour jet boat ride delivers. Launching from Queenstown, you’ll speed across Lake Wakatipu then plunge into the Shotover and Kawarau rivers, famed for their narrow, twisting canyons. The driver performs 360-degree spins and high-speed maneuvers, providing heart-pumping fun. The boat is equipped with heated handrails, so you won’t get chilly even during fast turns. Rated 4.8/5, this activity is perfect for thrill-seekers and those wanting a quick but intense taste of Queenstown’s adventure side.

Bottom Line: For a quick adrenaline rush, this is a must-do, especially if you’re looking for a safe yet exhilarating experience.

5. Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)

This 5-hour tour is the ultimate high-end Milford Sound experience. Starting with a return flight over the Southern Alps, you’ll witness snow-capped peaks and glaciers. Once in Milford Sound, a 2-hour cruise lets you see waterfalls and cliffs up close, with lunch included. The flight provides great photo ops and is rated 5/5 by travelers who find it worth every penny. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine scenic flights with a relaxing cruise, all while enjoying local commentary about the stunning surroundings.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive day with spectacular aerial and water views.

6. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

Offering a balance of scenic drive and water adventure, this 12-hour trip includes round-trip coach transport and a 2-hour cruise in Milford Sound. The luxury coach features a glass roof for sightseeing on the way, and the cruise provides opportunities to spot native wildlife. Rated 4.7/5 from over 1,400 reviews, it’s valued for its comfort and comprehensive itinerary. It’s suited for travelers who want to see Milford Sound with minimal hassle but still enjoy a full day of scenery.

Bottom Line: Well-suited for those who prefer a relaxed, all-in-one day without the need for flying.

7. Queenstown: Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Experience

This upgraded jet boat experience offers 25 minutes to 1.5 hours of pure high-speed fun on the Shotover River. You’ll experience 360-degree spins and swift navigation through narrow canyons, with an emphasis on the extreme side of Queenstown adventures. Rated 4.9/5, this experience is perfect if you want a slightly longer, more intense thrill ride, with the option for round-trip transport so you can focus on the adrenaline.

Bottom Line: The choice for thrill lovers wanting a longer, more intense jet boat ride than the standard tour.

8. Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown

Rated 5/5, this 4.5-hour tour offers a small group experience with flight, cruise, and sightseeing. It includes a guaranteed window seat on a small plane, flying over Fiordland’s remote landscapes, then cruising through Milford Sound to see waterfalls and wildlife. The trip offers a personalized experience with fewer travelers, making it ideal for those seeking intimacy and detailed commentary.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting a small-group, immersive experience of Milford Sound with scenic flights included.

9. Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu

This historic Edwardian steamship provides a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise across Lake Wakatipu. Onboard, enjoy watching the stokers feed the coal fires and exploring the engine room. The TSS Earnslaw also offers a small onboard museum with vintage photos. It’s a charming way to see the lake with spectacular mountain views, and afternoon tea at Walter Peak Farm completes the experience. Rated 4.7/5, it’s perfect for those wanting a mellow, scenic voyage with some historical flair.

Bottom Line: A great choice for history lovers and those wanting a leisurely, scenic cruise.

10. Queenstown: Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour

This 3.5-hour experience combines a lake cruise with a guided farm tour at Walter Peak. You’ll enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu and then explore the farm, with live demonstrations and the opportunity to meet animals like sheep and highland cattle. Afternoon tea is served amidst beautiful rural surroundings. The tour is highly rated at 4.8/5, making it popular among families and those interested in authentic farm life along with stunning scenery.

Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want scenic waters and farm visits in a single, relaxed experience.

11. From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride

This trip is for the adventurous, combining a scenic drive on Skippers Road—famous for its ruggedness—with a thrilling jet boat ride through spectacular canyons. The stunning scenery and Lord of the Rings filming locations make this a special experience. The jet boat offers fast-paced action and the chance to see one of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes. Rated 4.9/5, it’s a favorite for thrill-seekers who also want a touch of cinematic magic.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a mix of scenic drive and adrenaline-fueled jet boating.

12. Milford Sound Cruise with Round-Trip Flights from Queenstown

This 5-hour small-group tour combines air and water to show Milford Sound’s grandeur. You begin with a scenic flight over Fiordland, followed by a cruise on Milford Sound that extends to the Tasman Sea. The flight offers spectacular mountain and glacier views, and the cruise features waterfalls and wildlife. The tour is rated 5/5 for its exceptional experience and personalized service. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, high-quality outing that covers both sky and sea.

Bottom Line: An outstanding pick for those wanting the full scenic experience in one seamless day.

13. Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown

This full-day adventure offers jet boating and inflatable canoeing in the heart of Mt. Aspiring National Park. You’ll see Middle-earth filming locations, making it a perfect choice for Lord of the Rings fans. The tour includes a picnic lunch, and all gear is provided. Rated 5/5, travelers appreciate the diverse perspectives of the river and the spectacular landscape. The combination of high-speed jet boat and peaceful canoeing offers a rare balance of adrenaline and tranquility.

Bottom Line: A top pick for active travelers seeking a multi-sensory experience with stunning scenery.

14. Queenstown: Lake Whakatipu Boat Trip

Offering a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise, this trip explores secluded bays and historic sites around Lake Wakatipu. The modern catamaran provides panoramic views from both decks, and a skipper’s commentary adds context about the lake’s highlights. The onboard bar offers local beer and wine, making it ideal for couples or groups wanting a low-key, scenic outing. Rated 4.7/5, it’s a relaxing way to soak up the scenery without much fuss.

Bottom Line: Suitable for those seeking a peaceful, scenic cruise with a social vibe.

15. Queenstown: Milford Sound Small-Group Tour w Cruise & Lunch

This full-day tour takes you from Queenstown to Milford Sound in a small group, including a cruise with the number 1-rated boat and a picnic lunch. Starting early, you’ll pass through Eglington Valley and Mirror Lakes, with plenty of stops for photos. The cruise offers up-close views of Mitre Peak and waterfalls. Limited to smaller groups, this tour provides a more personal experience rated 4.9/5. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive, intimate day in Fiordland.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who prefer a smaller, more personalized experience with scenic highlights and excellent reviews.

How to Choose Your Perfect Queenstown Cruise or Boat Tour

When deciding, think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. Want a luxury experience? Try the Milford Sound flights and cruises. Looking for a thrill? The Shotover Jet Boat is unbeatable. For a relaxed day with great scenery, the Walter Peak BBQ cruise or the Lake Whakatipu boat trip fit perfectly. Booking early is encouraged especially for the most popular trips during peak season.

Final Thoughts

Queenstown’s water-based experiences are as varied as the landscapes themselves. From the spectacular scenic flights over Milford Sound to the thrilling jet boats rushing through narrow canyons, there’s an option for every type of traveler. For those seeking a relaxing, gourmet experience, the Walter Peak BBQ is a highlight. Adventure lovers should not miss the Shotover River Jet Boat, and those wanting the full Milford experience will find the flight and cruise options hard to beat.

No matter what your style, these tours showcase Queenstown’s incredible landscapes from every angle. Book early, and get ready for some unforgettable water adventures.