Queenstown: Everything You Need to Know About the Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

If you’re planning a visit to Queenstown, New Zealand, you won’t want to miss the beautiful Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise. It’s one of Queenstown’s best attractions, offering a stunning view of the stunning lake and the stunning mountains that surround it. This cruise will take you on a journey through the city’s stunning scenery on a 90-minute journey filled with incredible views, while providing live narration from one of the oldest tour boats in the country.

What Exactly is the Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise?

The Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise is an amazing 90-minute guided sightseeing tour that takes you through Queenstown and one of the country’s most beautiful lakes. The cruise offers breathtaking views of the sparkling blue waters and the rugged mountains that surround it. This tour is one of the oldest tour boats in the country and it is captained by experienced guides who will provide continuous narration along your journey.

The cruise departs from the city of Queenstown, following a route that takes you down the Kawarau River, through Lake Wakatipu, and along the breathtakingly beautiful scenery that lies between the two. As you cruise along, your guide will be giving entertaining and informative commentary about the history, culture, and wildlife of this area. You’ll pass by places like Bennetts Bluff, Moke Lake, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak.

What Will You See?

On this 90-minute scenic cruise, you’ll get to experience some of the most amazing sights that New Zealand has to offer. You’ll see the city of Queenstown from a unique vantage point, cruise through the tranquil waters of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by stunning mountains, and take in views of Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. Your guide will also tell you fun facts about the area’s history, culture, and wildlife.

You’ll also get to see some of New Zealand’s best wildlife from up close. The lake is home to several species of birds, including the flightless takahikaremoana (paradise duck). As you cruise through the lake’s waters, you may spot other animals such as swans, salmon, eels, and brown trout.

Is it Accessible?

The Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise is accessible to all! The tour is wheelchair friendly and can comfortably accommodate wheelchairs on board. For those with accessibility needs, please alert a staff member when boarding with your needs and they will be happy to accommodate them.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

The scenic cruise runs year-round and is available from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., seven days a week. The best time to visit during summer is from October through March to maximize your chances of experiencing pleasant temperatures during your adventure.

How Much Does it Cost?

The cost for a 90-minute cruise is $85 NZD for adults and $35 NZD for children. Children under five are free. If you’d like to make a day out of your cruise adventure, you can purchase a two-day ticket for $145 NZD for adults or $75 NZD for children.

Where Should You Buy Your Tickets?

If you’re looking for an easy and convenient way to book your Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise tickets, look no further than GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide offers discounted ticket prices along with access to exclusive deals on other attractions in the area. You can purchase your tickets directly from their website and have them sent directly to your inbox.

My opinion about Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise can be summed up in one word: breathtaking! From the moment you board the boat until the time you disembark, you’ll be amazed by each unique view that passes before you. With its stunning landscape, friendly guides and amazing wildlife sightings, this tour should not be missed when visiting Queenstown! So book your tickets today for a truly unforgettable experience!

An Insider’s Guide to Queenstown’s Best Kept Secrets

Queenstown is famous for its majestic alpine scenery and thrilling outdoor activities, but there’s so much more to this city than meets the eye. As a local, I know there are hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are waiting for curious travelers to discover. In this insider’s guide, I’ll take you through some of the best-kept secrets of Queenstown that you won’t find in any guidebook.

Local Attractions

Apart from the typical touristy spots like the Queenstown Hill and the Skyline Gondola, locals know that there are secluded spots that are worth a visit. One of these spots is the Ben Lomond Track, a serene hiking trail that leads through lush forests and rugged mountaintops. You can catch a breath-taking aerial view of the entire city on the Remarkables Lookout. The Kawarau Suspension Bridge is another attraction that locals enjoy visiting, where you can watch bungee jumpers launch themselves from the iconic bridge.

Dining Spots

Queenstown’s culinary scene is as diverse as its landscape. However, you can’t leave the city without trying some local Kiwi cuisine and the famous Fergburger. What most people don’t know is that beside Fergburger, there is Fergbaker, where you can have freshly baked pies and pastries that are to die for. Located on the banks of Lake Wakatipu, Akarua Wines and Kitchen by Artisan is another restaurant where you can enjoy great wine and food with a view. Ichiban is the city’s best-kept secret for sushi lovers, a small sushi bar tucked away on the second floor with a relaxed atmosphere and a delicious selection of rolls.

Cultural Experiences

Queenstown may not be the cultural capital of New Zealand, but it has a rich history and culture worth exploring. Have you heard of the Wakatipu Reforestation Trust? This organization aims to plant 1 million native trees over the next ten years to restore the area’s ecosystem. You can explore their operational tree nursery and learn about conservation efforts in the lush forests of the Gibbston Valley. Check out the creative arts scene at locally owned Artbay, showcasing Maori art, painting, jewelry, clothing, and other exquisite cultural artifacts crafted by renowned local artists.

Local History

Queenstown has a fascinating history that is often overlooked by travelers. Did you know that the city was once part of the gold rush and that it used to be one of the richest towns in the world? The old Chinese settlement at Arrowtown is a fascinating relic from this era, where you can take a guided tour to unravel the stories of Chinese miners who once lived there. The Eichardt’s Private Hotel, the oldest hotel in Queenstown, has an interesting story of its transformation from humble beginnings to a luxurious hotel that it is today.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Queenstown’s landscape is like no other. Instead of taking a conventional boat ride, why not try electric boating on Glenorchy’s Dart River? Experience the thrill of an electric high-speed boat powered by hydro turbines and explore some of the most secluded parts of the river. Queenstown is also known as the adventure capital of the world, so why not tackle a heli-skiing trip or try snowshoeing for a truly unique winter adventure? Or, how about a suspenseful ghost walk around the haunted areas of Arrowtown and Queenstown?

In conclusion, Queenstown is a city full of surprises for those who are willing to go the extra mile to explore. With this insider’s guide, you can skip the common tourist traps and delve into the soul of the city to find hidden gems and captivating stories. Whether you’re visiting Queenstown for the first time or are already a frequent visitor, remember to keep an open mind and step off the beaten path for unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.