Queenstown: Lake Wakatipu Cruise & Remarkables Views

Summary

Drift past historic homes & willow islands on Lake Wakatipu with local stories

You’ll glide across Lake Wakatipu with a small group, catching views of The Remarkables and historic homes while your local captain shares real stories—not just facts. Stop for photos near willow islands and Kawarau Falls Dam, sip something from the bar if you want, and soak up Queenstown’s quieter side from the water.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the low hum of the boat’s engine echoing off the water as we left Queenstown’s jetty. There was this sharp, almost sweet smell in the air—lake water mixed with pine from the gardens along the shore. Our captain, Pete, waved at a couple of kids skipping stones near Queenstown Gardens and just grinned like he’d done this a thousand times but still loved it. “Keep an eye out for the golf course,” he said, pointing across to Kelvin Heights. Honestly, I’d never seen a golf green look so dramatic with those mountains behind it.

I found myself pressed up against the rail as we glided past these huge houses—some with glass walls that seemed to float above the lake. Pete told us about one that used to belong to a local legend (I missed half the story because someone inside cheered when their drink order arrived). The water was calm except for tiny wakes from ducks and the odd paddleboarder. It felt weirdly peaceful, even though you could see Queenstown Central buzzing back on shore.

We stopped for photos right where The Remarkables just shot up out of nowhere—honestly, they do live up to their name but I won’t say more or I’ll sound like a brochure. There was this moment near Kawarau Falls Dam where everything went quiet except for Pete’s voice and some distant birds. I tried to pronounce “Wakatipu” properly—Li laughed at my attempt (I probably butchered it). On the way back along Frankton Arm, people waved from little beaches and trails. I still think about that stretch of sunlight on the water; it made me want to stay out there longer than 90 minutes, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

• Depart from Queenstown Bay jetty
• Pass Queenstown Gardens and Central
• View Queenstown Golf Course on peninsula
• See million dollar homes along shoreline
• Sail past willow islands and birdlife
• Reach historic Kawarau Falls Dam
• Stop for photos at The Remarkables
• Travel along Frankton Arm shoreline
• Return to Queenstown Bay

Top questions

How long is the Lake Wakatipu scenic cruise?

The cruise lasts 90 minutes round-trip from Queenstown's main jetty.

Does this Queenstown lake cruise include live commentary?

Yes, your captain provides live commentary throughout the journey.

Are drinks available on board during the cruise?

Yes, there is a fully licensed bar onboard for drinks purchases.

Where does the cruise depart in Queenstown?

The boat departs daily from Queenstown’s central main jetty.

Is this day trip suitable for families with small children?

Yes, infants and small children can join and strollers are allowed.

Will we see The Remarkables mountain range?

Yes, you'll stop for photos with clear views of The Remarkables.

Is pickup included in this Lake Wakatipu cruise?

No hotel pickup; you meet at Queenstown’s main jetty before departure.

Can service animals join this scenic cruise?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during the tour.

What’s included

Your 90-minute day trip on Lake Wakatipu includes friendly local crew guiding you from Queenstown’s central jetty with both indoor and outdoor seating options. Enjoy live commentary from your captain as you pass landmarks like The Remarkables and Kawarau River—with drinks available at the licensed onboard bar if you fancy something while watching those mountain views drift by.