Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise

Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise: A Friendly Take

This tour in Queenstown, New Zealand, is one of those experiences that seem to capture the essence of the area all in one go. While I haven’t personally been on this exact trip, the buzz and reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for travelers eager to enjoy stunning scenery, good food, and a touch of Kiwi farm life—all in one afternoon.

What’s particularly appealing about this outing? First, the cruise aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw feels like stepping back in time, offering an atmospheric ride across Lake Wakatipu that’s both relaxing and visually spectacular. Second, the gourmet BBQ lunch at Walter Peak’s farm is clearly a highlight, with many reviewers raving about the quality and variety of the food.

A potential consideration? The lunch is a buffet-style setup, which can get a little hectic if you’re not early or if the crowds are large. The service, especially at the buffet, might feel a tad rushed. So, if you’re seeking an intimate sit-down meal or a leisurely eating experience, this might not fully satisfy.

This tour suits anyone who wants a mix of scenic cruising, engaging farm demonstrations, and hearty, well-prepared food—all wrapped in a relaxed, family-friendly environment. It’s especially appealing if you love classic Kiwi scenery and authentic farm experiences, but it’s also a good pick for those who just want an easy, enjoyable day out.

Key Points

• Iconic Steamship Ride: Enjoy a cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw, a coal-fired steamship whose engines and boilers are a true sight to see.
• Stunning Views: The lake and mountain scenery combined with the vintage vessel make for an unforgettable backdrop.
• Farm Experience: Sheep shearing, herding demonstrations, and sheepdog shows offer a real taste of rural life.
• Gourmet BBQ: Feast on a variety of meats, salads, and desserts with a focus on local ingredients, and vegetarian options are available.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose between morning or afternoon departures to best fit your day.
• Good Value: For about $98, you get a scenic cruise, a hearty lunch, and engaging farm demos, making it a solid bang for your buck.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Queenstown

Your adventure begins at the RealNZ Queenstown Visitor Centre, from where you’ll board the vintage TSS Earnslaw. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s part of the experience. The boat itself feels like a floating piece of history, built in 1912, and many reviews mention how impressive it is to see the steam-powered engines in action. Howard Hooper, for example, appreciated the chance to see the boilers working – it adds a real sense of nostalgia to the voyage.

Lake Wakatipu Cruise

The cruise across Lake Wakatipu takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes round-trip. As you sail, expect breathtaking views of jagged mountains, shimmering waters, and the surrounding landscape. It’s a moment to relax, snap photos, and just take in the scenery. Many reviewers note how the cruise is both scenic and comfortable, with inside and outside seating options.

Walter Peak Farm & Lunch

Once at Walter Peak, the fun begins. You’ll step onto the lakeside at the Colonels Homestead, where the focus shifts to the farm and the cuisine. The gourmet BBQ is prepared by skilled farm chefs, using seasonal, local ingredients. The menu includes meats cooked on rotisseries and grills, offering a variety of options that appeal to meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Several reviews highlight the quality of the food, with some saying it’s “absolutely amazing” and “definitely worth knowing that you can go up as many times as you like rather than loading your plate sky-high.”

The farm show is a bonus. You’ll see sheep shearing demonstrations, sheepdog shows, and get a sense of real farm life. Reviewers like Carla H. mentioned how the farm gardens and animals are a highlight, even if the show itself can be somewhat brief. It’s relaxed, with opportunities to walk around and enjoy the surroundings while waiting for your next bite.

Returning to Queenstown

After lunch and the demonstrations, the journey back to Queenstown is just as scenic. Many travelers comment on how the cruise back offers a different perspective of the lake and mountains, often with a more peaceful vibe as you wind down from a busy day.

What Visitors Love Most

Based on reviews and descriptions, the stunning scenery tops the list. The combination of a historic steamship, panoramic lake views, and mountain backdrops makes this a visual treat. The food comes in a close second—many say it’s among the best buffets they’ve had in similar settings, with fresh, flavorful ingredients and a good variety.

The farm show adds an authentic touch to the experience, especially if you’re into rural life or enjoy seeing working animals. It’s lively, fun, and informative, making it more than just a meal and cruise.

The tour’s value for money is frequently highlighted. For less than $100, you’re getting a scenic cruise, a hearty meal, and a farm experience—quite a package for a half-day activity.

The Not-So-Perfect Bits

The main critique? The buffet setup can feel a bit rushed, especially during peak times. Some reviews mention waiting for drinks or feeling the service was a little hectic, which might detract from the relaxed vibe some travelers seek. If you prefer a slow, sit-down meal with attentive service, this might not be ideal.

Plus, the full experience is concentrated, so if you’re not keen on crowds or if you’re a slow eater, you might find it a bit hurried. The farm show itself is relatively short, which some might find a little underwhelming compared to the relaxed pace of the cruise.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is well-suited for families looking for a fun, engaging day out, especially with kids who enjoy farm animals and demonstrations. It also appeals broadly to nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone wanting a hassle-free way to enjoy Queenstown’s scenery with good food in a relaxed setting. If you’re a foodie who loves hearty, well-prepared meals with local flavors, this is a winner.

It’s less tailored for travelers seeking a quiet, intimate experience or those with dietary restrictions that aren’t easily accommodated (though vegetarian options are available, so it’s not exclusive to meat-eaters). If you’re in Queenstown for a quick visit and want a taste of local life paired with beautiful views, this tour fits the bill.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 3.5 hours, including the cruise, farm visit, and lunch.
• Price: $98.67 per person, which offers good value when you consider the scenery, food, and farm experience.
• Departure times: Morning or afternoon options provide flexibility.
• Group size: Up to 100 travelers, so it’s lively but not overly crowded.
• Booking: Best to arrive early to secure a good seat on the boat (some reviewers suggest sitting near windows).

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise and farm demonstrations are engaging for kids, and many reviews highlight family-friendly aspects. Just keep in mind the buffet can be busy, so supervising children around crowds is advisable.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, especially if you plan to sit outside on the boat. The weather can change quickly, and the boat might be cooler with the wind.

Can I choose between morning or afternoon departures?
Yes, both options are available, allowing you to plan your day around other activities.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarians are well cared for, with options available. If you have specific needs, it’s best to inform RealNZ beforehand via the booking channel.

Is the buffet a sit-down meal?
It’s a buffet-style setup, which some find lively and fun, but others might prefer a more relaxed, plated meal.

What’s the best way to ensure a good experience?
Arrive early for a good seat, especially if you want to be near the window, and consider heading to the buffet early to avoid the rush.

Final Thoughts

The Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ Lunch & Queenstown Lake Cruise offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Queenstown special. The combination of a historic steamship, breathtaking scenery, and a hearty, quality meal makes it worthwhile for many kinds of travelers. It’s especially great if you enjoy good food, interesting demonstrations, and scenic cruising—all in one relaxed outing.

While it’s not the most leisurely dining experience, the value you get for the price, along with the engaging farm show and stunning views, makes it a favorite for many visitors. Perfect for those who want a memorable, authentic Kiwi experience without the fuss.

If you’re after an activity that blends scenery with a taste of local farming life and delicious food, this tour deserves a spot on your Queenstown list.