Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ

Historic steamship cruise to a lakeside farm with gourmet BBQ

InsideQueenstown-Lakes District, New Zealand

Overview

This is a classic Queenstown outing: cruise across Lake Wakatipu on the 1911 TSS Earnslaw, step ashore at Walter Peak High Country Farm, and settle into the Colonel’s Homestead for a generous gourmet BBQ. It’s equal parts lake scenery, heritage transport, and hearty dining.

What You’ll Experience

Cruise: The trip starts with about 45 minutes aboard the TSS Earnslaw, one of the oldest working steamships in the Southern Hemisphere. You can wander the decks, peek into the engine room, and take in the mountain views.
At Walter Peak: Walk up from the wharf to the Homestead, where the team has grills going and salads laid out. After (or before) eating, the farm show is a highlight—think sheep shearing and a border collie showing off real sheep‑herding skills.
Return: The sail back to Queenstown serves up big‑sky views; time dinner right and you’re often riding into sunset hues.

Food & Drink

The Homestead’s spread leans on local and homegrown produce, with a mix of land and seafood, fresh salads and veg, and desserts. Vegetarian options are available, and the menu shifts with the seasons.

Logistics & What to Bring

Plan on a long lunch or a dinner sitting. Pack warm layers (the lake breeze bites after dark), non‑slip shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses, and a camera. Don’t forget any personal medication.

Seasonal Note

The Earnslaw takes annual maintenance roughly May–September. During that window, trips run on the Spirit of Queenstown, a modern catamaran with a shorter, ~30‑minute one‑way cruise. The experience still includes the BBQ and farm show, but the vibe is different from the vintage steamship.

Best Time to Visit

Dinner departures are the pick if you’re chasing sunset light on the return cruise.
Lunch works well for lake views under bright midday skies and a more relaxed feel between other Queenstown activities.

Pros

Scenic cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw
Gourmet BBQ buffet with seasonal, local produce
Entertaining farm show with sheep shearing and herding

Cons

During May–September the Earnslaw is replaced by a modern catamaran
Lake weather can be chilly even in summer

Tips

Choose the dinner sitting for the best chance at sunset views on the return cruise.
Explore the Earnslaw’s engine room during the crossing—it’s part of the charm.
Wear non‑slip shoes and bring a warm layer; the lake breeze can be brisk.
Vegetarians are covered, and the menu changes seasonally.
From May–September expect the modern catamaran instead of the Earnslaw.