Historic Steamship Cruise to Walter Peak Farm + BBQ Dinner, Queenstown (NZ)

Travel back in time on this excursion to the historic Walter Peak High Country Farm, an 1850s sheep farm nestled in the foothills of Walter Peak. The journey begins aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship, a vintage steamer from 1912, which takes you from Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm. A guide will meet you there to take you through the lakeside gardens to the homestead, where you'll have a barbecue dinner with plenty of vegetarian options too. This trip ends with an entertaining demonstration with sheep and sheepdogs, shining a light on life in the high country. In the evening, return to Queenstown on the TSS Earnslaw, accompanied by the sounds of the ship's pianist and the sights of the city lights approaching.

You'll begin this half-day excursion by heading to Wharf Dock in central Queenstown, where you'll hop aboard the TSS Earnslaw Steamship. This historic ship made its maiden voyage in 1912 (the same year as the Titanic), and it has been restored to its original condition, making it the only coal-fired steamship operating in the Southern Hemisphere. You can check out the small museum on board, visit the engine room to see the equipment that has kept this vessel running for over a century, or grab a seat by the onboard pianist to enjoy some entertainment during this 45-minute cruise across Lake Wakatipu.

Once you arrive at Walter Peak High Country Farm, you'll be greeted by a guide from the farm, who will lead you through the property's peaceful lakeside gardens up to the on-site restaurant. You can take in the views of the mountain and lake on your stroll or grab a window seat in the restaurant to enjoy views with your meal. This sheep farm dates back to the 1850s and is still working, so keep an eye out for sheep, sheepdogs, and other animals like cattle, goats, and deer. 

You'll then sit down to a gourmet barbecue dinner that a chef will prepare in front of you. Savor the tasty meats cooked in an outdoor rotisserie or stock up on veggie dishes made from seasonal local produce; just make sure to leave room for dessert. After dessert, you'll watch a demonstration that may include sheep shearing or dog herding to show you how life on the farm runs smoothly. Once you've gotten your fill of tasty treats on the farm, you'll head back to Queenstown on the TSS Earnslaw.