If you’re looking for a quick but memorable way to enjoy Wanaka’s stunning scenery, the Ruby Island cruise and walk might be just what you need. This experience offers a peaceful boat ride across Lake Wanaka, combined with a short, guided stroll on Ruby Island. While it’s not an all-day adventure, it packs enough charm and photo-worthy moments to make it worthwhile—especially if your time is limited.
What makes this tour appealing? First, the easy, relaxed pace suits travelers of most ages, including families with kids or seniors who want a scenic, gentle outing. Second, the knowledgeable guides really add value—they share stories and insights that deepen your appreciation for the island’s history and native plants. That said, a potential downside is that the cruise and walk are relatively brief, so if you’re craving expansive mountain vistas or longer excursions, this might feel a bit light.
This experience is ideal for those wanting a taste of Wanaka’s natural beauty without a big time commitment. It’s perfect if you’re in town for a short stay or just want a casual, scenic trip with plenty of photo opportunities.
- Key Points
- What to Expect on the Ruby Island Cruise and Walk
- Meeting and Boarding
- The Cruise Out to Ruby Island
- Guided Walk on Ruby Island
- Photo Opportunities and Scenery
- Return Cruise
- The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective
- Considerations and Downsides
- Is This Tour Worth It?
- The Sum Up
- FAQs
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Wanaka
- More Walking Tours in Wanaka
- More Tour Reviews in Wanaka
- Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Wanaka we have reviewed
Key Points
- Short and sweet: The one-hour duration makes it a perfect quick outing.
- Accessible for most: The walk is easy, suitable for children and seniors.
- Photo-friendly: Eclectic plants and scenic views make for great pictures.
- Informative guides: Expect engaging stories and insights about the island’s history.
- Flexible options: You can choose to stay on the boat or explore part of the walk.
- Weather-dependent: The tour relies on good weather; landings may be affected during public holidays.
What to Expect on the Ruby Island Cruise and Walk
When you book the Ruby Island tour with Lake Wanaka Cruises, you’re signing up for a relaxing 1-hour experience that combines a boat cruise with a brief walk on an island that’s often called the jewel of Wanaka. While the overall time isn’t long, it’s packed with beautiful scenery and interesting stories that keep it engaging.
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Wanaka
Meeting and Boarding
You’ll meet right near the Wanaka lakefront, close to the Dinosaur Park at 100 Ardmore St, not at the Wanaka Marina. The process is straightforward: just look for the big sign on the beach by the Old Town Jetty. No check-in required, which simplifies things if you’re short on time.
Tip: Bring your camera, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water. The weather on the lake can vary, so a warm jacket is also a good idea regardless of the season.
The Cruise Out to Ruby Island
The boat ride itself is gentle and scenic. You’ll glide across the calm waters of Lake Wanaka, soaking up the views of the surrounding mountains and shoreline. It’s a calm, peaceful experience perfect for taking photos or just relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
Guided Walk on Ruby Island
Once ashore, your friendly guide will lead you on an easy 20-minute walk that rises about 20 meters above the beach. The terrain is manageable, with an average track, but sturdy, rugged-soled shoes are recommended. The walk is not compulsory—you can stay on the boat or explore the beach if you prefer.
On the island, you’ll find an inviting mix of native and exotic plants, which set a beautiful foreground against the shimmering lake and mountain backdrop. The walk offers a glimpse into the island’s history, especially its connection to the days of prohibition—a story your guide will share with enthusiasm and knowledge.
More Great Tours NearbyPhoto Opportunities and Scenery
Many visitors note how photogenic Ruby Island is. The vibrant plant life, colorful rocks, and panoramic views make it a favorite for photographers. As one reviewer put it, “Super Ausflug mit tollen Fotos,” which translates to a “great trip with fantastic photos.”
You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in Wanaka
Return Cruise
After the walk, you’ll hop back on the boat for the short ride back to the Wanaka waterfront. The whole experience lasts roughly an hour, making it easy to fit into a packed schedule or combine with other activities.
The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective
Based on reviews, guides like Chris, Dan, and Toby consistently receive praise for their storytelling and knowledge. One reviewer from Australia said, “Had the best time in Wanaka! Chris and Dan were fantastic—so knowledgeable and just great blokes.” Others appreciated how the guides shared stories about the island’s history, adding depth to the experience.
While some visitors felt the tour could have included more time on the water, most found the short cruise and walk to be perfectly satisfying, especially for a brief taste of Wanaka’s natural beauty. As one traveler from Canada noted, “Very good but there could have been more time on the water. Our guide was very informative.”
Considerations and Downsides
The main limitation is the brief duration—if you’re seeking a full-day adventure or expansive mountain views, this cruise might leave you wanting more. Also, the walk, while easy, involves uneven surfaces, so it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users. During public holidays, if weather is not favorable, the landings at Ruby Island might be canceled, and the boat will opt for a scenic cruise instead.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Absolutely, if you’re after a relaxed, scenic outing that doesn’t require a lot of time or physical effort. The price reflects the quality of the guides and the beautiful setting, making it good value for a memorable short trip. It’s particularly suited for travelers who enjoy photography, stories about local history, or simply want to unwind on the water with a few gentle steps on land.
If you’re craving a more extensive exploration of Wanaka’s mountain scenery, consider options like the Stevenson’s Island cruise or the Mou Waho Island cruise. But for a quick, charming taste of the lake and island, Ruby Island fits the bill nicely.
The Sum Up
For those wanting a peaceful escape with plenty of picturesque moments, the Ruby Island cruise and walk offers a little bit of everything—scenic lake views, interesting history, and a manageable walk in a stunning setting. The guides are a highlight, making the experience engaging and informative without feeling rushed.
It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate gentle outings, including families, older travelers, or anyone short on time but keen to see Wanaka from a different perspective. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an hour and capture some great photos, this tour provides a lovely, hassle-free experience that’s worth considering.
From Wanaka: Ruby Island 1-Hour Cruise and Photo Walk
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the walk is easy and suitable for children, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The overall pace is relaxed, making it a good outing for families.
What should I bring?
You’ll want your camera, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, bottled water, and snacks. A warm jacket is recommended, as temperatures can be cooler on the water regardless of the season.
How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 1 hour, including the boat ride and the island walk.
Can I stay on the boat instead of walking?
Yes, the walk is not compulsory—you can remain on the boat, relax on the beach, or explore part of the island at your leisure.
What’s the difficulty level of the walk?
The walk is easy, involving a 20-minute ascent and descent on an average track. Sturdy outdoor shoes are recommended.
Are there any restrictions?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed. The activity is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to uneven surfaces.
Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it depends on favorable weather. During public holidays, if weather isn’t suitable, the tour may be a scenic cruise without landing.
What happens if the landings are canceled?
The skipper will continue the cruise around Ruby Island and on to a scenic cruise on Lake Wanaka instead.
How do I find the meeting point?
Meet near the Wanaka lakefront close to the Dinosaur Park, at the Old Town Jetty. Look for the big sign on the beach.
If you’re in Wanaka and looking for a peaceful, scenic hour that combines boat cruising with a short walk, the Ruby Island experience is a charming choice. It’s a gentle way to see the lake’s beauty, learn some local stories, and grab some lovely photos—all without a lot of fuss.
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