TSS Earnslaw
Lady of the lake
The TSS Earnslaw is one of the world’s oldest and largest remaining steamships and has graced Lake Whakatipu since 1912. In the days before any roads existed, it ferried people, sheep, cattle, mail and supplies to remote lakeside destinations.
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The historic TSS Earnslaw
An essential link
The TSS Earnslaw is an integral part of Tāhuna Queenstown’s pioneering history and to this day a local icon. Launched in the same year as the Titanic, the TSS Earnslaw’s maiden voyage was on 18 October 1912. She was commissioned by New Zealand Railways to provide an essential link between the outside world and farming communities along the shores of Lake Whakatipu. Often referred to as the Lady of the Lake this grand steamship is 51.2m long which even then made her the biggest boat on the lake.
Rescue and restoration
Nearly scrapped in 1968, she was rescued and purchased by Real Journeys and put to work once again carrying passengers around the lake. Since then the TSS Earnslaw has been painstakingly restored to its original condition – everything you see is pretty much like it was a 100 years ago.
The TSS Earnslaw is proudly owned and operated by Realnz.
What you will see and do aboard the TSS Earnslaw
Enjoy the incredible views
A 90-minute cruise on the TSS Earnslaw across Lake Whakatipu showcases some of Tāhuna Queenstown's spectacular alpine scenery.
Onboard discoveries
Explore the vessel, view the engine room and study the historic displays of the steamship's former life.
Stop at Walter Peak High Country Farm
Turn your trip into an all-day adventure by getting off at popular Walter Peak High Country Farm for a guided farm tour, horse trek, independent cycling, and gourmet barbeque lunch or dinner.
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