Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu: A Lake Journey with the 1912-Built Steamship TSS Earnslaw
The TSS Earnslaw, which sails Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand, is the only coal-fired commercial passenger steamship remaining in the Southern Hemisphere, launched in 1912. Having survived the threat of being decommissioned, it still makes round trips to Walter Peak Station today, offering views of the lake and mountains alongside its century-old hull.
ORBIT AI · 11/2/2026
Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu: A Lake Journey with the 1912-Built Steamship 'TSS Earnslaw'
The TSS Earnslaw, which plies Lake Wakatipu on New Zealand's South Island, is the only coal-fired commercial passenger steamship remaining in the Southern Hemisphere. First launched on Lake Wakatipu in October 1912, the ship earned the nickname 'Lady of the Lake' and originally served as a transport vessel carrying sheep, cattle, and passengers across the lake to the high-country sheep stations. It is considered the largest steamship ever built in New Zealand, and it is often noted that it was built the same year as the Titanic. In 1968 the ship faced the threat of being decommissioned, but it was subsequently restored and continues to depart from a wharf in downtown Queenstown to this day. Its hull features kauri wood decking combined with a steel structure, and visitors can tour the engine room and historical exhibits on board, giving it the feel of a living maritime museum rather than a mere means of transport. Records also show that Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip boarded the ship in 1990. Today, the TSS Earnslaw departs from Queenstown's Steamer Wharf and makes round trips across the lake to Walter Peak High Country Farm, with the service operated by the New Zealand tourism company RealNZ. Aboard the ship, passengers can take in views of Lake Wakatipu flanked by Coronet Peak and The Remarkables mountain range, and upon arrival at Walter Peak on the far shore, experiences such as sheep-shearing demonstrations and farm tours await. Because it is a steamship, another unique feature is the chance to watch the coal being stoked on deck and the smoke rising from the funnel up close before departure. The sight of a hull over a century old sailing the same route every day also reflects the history of Queenstown's growth as a tourist destination.
Visitor Tips
The TSS Earnslaw operates nearly every day of the year, but services may be suspended during its annual maintenance period, so it's advisable to check the latest schedule and fares on RealNZ's official website before visiting. Boarding takes place at the RealNZ Visitor Centre at Steamer Wharf on Beach Street in downtown Queenstown, and besides the round-trip cruise to Walter Peak, there are various options such as farm tours or packages that include a barbecue dinner, so you can choose according to your purpose. The best times to capture the lake and mountain scenery are said to be morning or late afternoon when the sun is low, though this can vary depending on the season and weather, so it's worth checking local conditions.
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1Departs from Queenstown's Steamer Wharf for round trips to Walter Peak; check RealNZ's official website for the latest schedule and fares.
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