Queenstown Tours: Top 5 Sightseeing & Cruise Adventures

Queenstown, the adventure capital, is a location with all this thrilling stuff to do, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take in the landscapes, because it is drop-dead gorgeous country. The Remarkables mountain range are rather aptly named, frankly, that and so many others things, like Lake Wakatipu. Let’s look at the top 5 Queenstown sightseeing tours and cruises to soak it all up!

1. TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship Cruise & Walter Peak Farm Tour

First, there’s the TSS Earnslaw. It’s a vintage steamship, rather old fashioned and cute, in some ways, but in a great way, actually! So, it’s practically a piece of living history, seemingly chugging across Lake Wakatipu. This is, actually, so much more than just a cruise; it is really like stepping back in time. Apparently, you can often visit the engine room and see the stokers shoveling coal into the furnaces. This bit of theatrical work just kind of adds to the charm. It’s honestly a fun experience for adults and kids. I think it really could be.

Then there’s Walter Peak High Country Farm. This is definitely where the cruise takes you. It gives a dose of rural New Zealand. Apparently, there are sheep shearing demonstrations. It gives you a really close encounter with farm animals. Also, maybe unexpectedly, they have beautiful gardens, because that’s a little out of left-field in that area of the world. A gourmet barbecue lunch or dinner tops off this experience so deliciously. It lets you sit down to the local fare with these fantastic lakeside views.

So, the scenery on the cruise, as I was saying, is dramatic. Think about super deep blue water, pretty much with a frame of the mountains. Apparently, the farm is pretty restful. It makes a contrast, in a way, from the bustle of Queenstown itself. That said, the whole thing seems a bit touristy. In a way, it certainly isn’t off the beaten path, I think. The BBQ may be a little generalized, you know, for what it needs to be. In that case, it seems this tour is fantastic because you’re traveling with kids, so in other words, for families, people like your relatives, because the kids like that type of thing.

What’s Good About This Cruise?

• Vintage Steamship experience – the whole idea seems pretty unforgettable.
• Farm activities – Fun and different, apparently.
• Fantastic scenery, right across that mountain lake – Absolutely stunning!

2. Milford Sound Cruise & Scenic Flight

So, want to visit one of the treasures of New Zealand? Then you probably have to go to Milford Sound. Let’s look at this trip by flight. In short, it allows for a dramatic entry. Milford Sound can be a trek from Queenstown if you go all the way by road, you see. This flight offers unparalleled views of the Southern Alps, it seems, and the fjords. Now this bit would seem awesome!

I mean, that trip by air avoids a five-hour coach ride, alright. I’m not certain who likes long rides like that, but very few do. A cruise is how you’re going to explore Milford Sound. Typically, you glide past waterfalls, really high cliff faces, and the amazing Mitre Peak. There seems to always be heaps of photo chances.

You’re, generally, gonna spot some native wildlife, such as seals, penguins, and dolphins. Apparently, that’s a bonus. Then the return flight, very quick, right back to Queenstown again, honestly, which kind of gives you plenty of time for other adventures in the town, so in short, that’s good, I guess. I think it offers convenience because it is a fast option for a full day’s experience. Basically, I’d expect magnificent views. It lets you see a really good sight quickly, you know. Very pricey, though, right. It seems a little bit vulnerable to the weather too. Flights may get canceled in very bad weather. So, basically, you may have to be rather flexible about when you decide to take it.

Is This the Tour for You?

• Because time is rather restricted. You will cover that Sound quickly.
• To experience Milford Sound with remarkable views. Apparently, from above and from the water.
• If weather permits. Always rather be prepared, right?

3. Shotover Jet Boat Ride

Fancy some action? That Shotover Jet Boat Ride is more or less a great idea for thrill-seekers. A bit like zooming through the narrow Shotover River canyons at speeds up to 85 km/h! The drivers of those boats can do stuff and are definitely extremely skilled. Also, there’s loads of skill needed for what you’re about to witness and partake in. That’s a good thing. Also, they make crazy, super crazy maneuvers. I guess prepare for some full-on adrenaline!

I feel that these jet boats are specially, especially, made to go in extremely shallow water. Very good for what you’re about to get into, actually. Now I might be slightly wrong here, and stand to be corrected by anyone. The boat really skims over the water, which I understand makes it just exciting, alright? It’s a really distinctive, actually really Queenstown experience.

This really would appear awesome, I expect. Also, short duration because this is like a real adrenaline rush, really super for getting some quick energy when you just need that type of thing. However, be aware this does sell out because there are usually long lines to do that type of activity, as a matter of fact, to participate. No doubt. This might be way more extreme in a way for some because that’s just how life is. Anyway, you just never know! That is all that I ask!

Who Is This One Good For?

• Anyone after some rush of excitement, actually, and some thrilling exploits!
• Adrenaline addicts because that’s all you are getting. You get adrenaline!
• The ones seeking to get a little iconic Queenstown experience. Do as I say!

4. Queenstown Scenic Gondola & Skyline Luge

This activity is arguably accessible because this option is good for all ages. Basically, it starts with a picturesque gondola ride up Bob’s Peak. Then take in expansive panoramic views of Queenstown, that whole lake, and what amounts to, generally, the Remarkables mountain range. These might be rather aptly named.

Anyway, up there, there are some luge tracks. Pretty good! Now the luge is such a cart type thing. Also, these carts can descend along winding tracks. Kids, just your relations and kin, really love it when it comes to something of that kind.

Now, the views can seem spectacular and great as everyone will usually be saying, I might presume. Also, something for all ages with activities on tap so, in effect, suitable, actually very much so for anyone! The lines may seem long, particularly in season. Some are saying the luge is really pretty fun, so basically that’s what people say when they enjoy that type of stuff.

Is This Suitable?

• Something available for all. Seriously, something that everyone can appreciate.
• Because family friendly activities for most people, usually!
• Probably something scenic, and, arguably, rather stunning. Pretty much that I’d expect and presume!

5. Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

Basically, take to a rather relaxed scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. So, soak it all in and apparently enjoy some striking alpine scenery because it is alpine here! This cruise will have no extra, you know, frills, actually. Just the view that matters in a way, on a certain level.

As a matter of fact, it’s a chance to unwind and breathe in the crisp mountain air! Also, this may be your chance if that is, I suggest, and is an appropriate thing to experience!

There will, potentially, appear stunning views everywhere on the lake; however, do manage your expectations; there might not be heaps of other stuff going on! To summarise and keep it straight with everyone, a good pick for relaxing and I imagine rather simple in concept for this option and what’s available.

Will I Enjoy That Though?

• You, potentially, appreciate scenic views. As simple as it needs to be.
• To relax. If your vibe, you see.