Discover Queenstown the authentic way, from some of the best seats in town: out on Lake Wakatipu.
On this relaxing 90-minute cruise, leave the bustle of the waterfront behind and soak up the scenery that brings people to Queenstown.
The Remarkables rise above the lake, feeling close enough to touch, while quiet bays, willow islands and lakeside homes reveal a different side of the region.
As you cruise through the Frankton Arm towards the historic Kawarau Falls Dam, there’s time to look around, take photos and simply enjoy being on the water.
Choose an outdoor seat for the open views or settle inside and watch the landscape unfold.
Your captain brings the scenery to life with live commentary, stories and a little Kiwi humour, while the crew offers a warm welcome.
It’s a chance to pause, share remarkable views and make memories that last well beyond the cruise.
✓ Friendly onboard crew✓ Central Queenstown jetty departure✓ 90-minute Lake Wakatipu scenic cruise✓ Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.✓ Indoor and outdoor seating✓ Live commentary from the captain✕ Additional charges apply for food, snacks and drinks on board✕ Hotel transfers✕ Wheelchair access (due to vessel design)1 Lake Wakatipu
Cruise along Lake Wakatipu and discover Queenstown from the water.
Take in views of The Remarkables, lakeside homes and surrounding mountains while your captain shares stories and commentary.
Relax, enjoy the scenery, and capture photos from the boat.
· Non-stop passage
2 Queenstown
The trip starts off in Queenstown Bay, as you sail out you will pass Queenstown Gardens and see Queenstown Central along the shoreline.
· Non-stop passage
3 Queenstown Gardens
As the cruise leaves Queenstown Bay, enjoy a view of the tree-lined Queenstown Gardens from the lake.
See this familiar landmark from a different perspective, with the surrounding mountains as a backdrop.
· Non-stop passage
4 Queenstown Golf Club
Cruise past Queenstown Golf Club along the Kelvin Heights shoreline.
From the lake, enjoy a view of the golf course with Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains as a backdrop.
· Non-stop passage
5 Kawarau River
The cruise reaches the historic Kawarau Falls Dam, where Lake Wakatipu flows into the Kawarau River.
View the dam and surrounding scenery from the boat before heading back to Queenstown.
· Non-stop passage
6 Frankton Trail
We then edge our way along the opposing shoreline where you can see the Frankton Arm shoreline where locals often frequent to enjoy the waters in summer and then back along the Frankton Arm Trail that takes us back safely to Queenstown Bay.
· Non-stop passage
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Service animals allowed Public transportation options are available nearby Suitable for all physical fitness levels Arrive 15 minutes prior to your departure time. Choose outdoor seating for unobstructed views. Bring your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the captain's engaging commentary. Consider this cruise as a perfect introduction to Queenstown. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 71002P1
Activity offered by Million Dollar Cruise via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Visitors seeking scenic views Families with young children Individuals interested in local commentary Those looking for a relaxing activity Relaxing 90-minute cruise on Lake Wakatipu Stunning views of The Remarkables and surrounding mountains Live commentary with local stories and humor Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating options Unique perspective of Queenstown and its landmarks Central departure point in Queenstown
Population 29,000 (2023)
Currency New Zealand dollar
Official languages Māori, English
Driving on the left
Power plugs I · 230 V
Emergency number 111
Capital city Wellington Average temperatures 11° Jan 11° Feb 9° Mar 6° Apr 3° May 1° Jun 0° Jul 1° Aug 3° Sept 5° Oct 7° Nov 10° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the scenic cruise? + The cruise lasts for 90 minutes.
Where does the cruise depart from? + The cruise departs from a central Queenstown jetty.
Can I purchase food and drinks on board? + Additional charges apply for food, snacks, and drinks on board.
Is wheelchair access available? + Wheelchair access is not available due to the vessel's design.
What happens if the weather is bad? + The cruise may be cancelled in case of bad weather.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Viator review
Over The Top
Wendy_V, October 2026
Such a great view of the lake in a family friendly atmosphere … We got to tour the lake and hear some local facts.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Great arvo onnthe water
hamishm975, October 2026
Absolutely loved it. Captain Tyler made the experience so enjoyable for us with the stories and sometimes cracking a joke. The views were beautiful and my family loved it. Shoutout to Tarn as well for a nice little chat.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Relaxing cruise
Freedom23413835302, October 2026
Jasmine & Em made us all feel very welcome & comfortable on board. The cruise itself was very relaxing and informative. Em even distributed blankets to keep us warm while seated on the top deck. Very thoughtful.
Response from the operator · Milliondollarcruise Thank you so much for this wonderful review!
I am so glad to hear our crew made you feel so comfy and you were able to relax!
Looking forward to having you onboard again soon! :)))
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Amazing!
L6044XGevam, October 2026
Our time on the million dollar cruise was amazing. All the crew were really great. Tarn was very attentive, friendly and helped make our trip super fun and entertaining. Thanks to all the crew a who helped us have an amazing trip!
Response from the operator · Milliondollarcruise Thank you for such a great review, we look forward to seeing you again in the future.
★★★★★ Viator review
Great day on the lake
Stephen_B, October 2026
Amazing way to see Queenstown from the water. Perfect amount of time. Great drinks and snacks for the 90 minute trip. Fun, helpful and informative crew.
Response from the operator · Milliondollarcruise Thank you for a great review. It's wonderful you enjoyed your experience with us, and we look forward to seeing you again in the future.
Show more reviews