One of the best things to do in Queenstown is to get out on the lake. Lake Wakatipu is at the core of the township and boasts pretty sensational views of the surrounding mountains. The TSS Earnslaw couldn’t be more quintessential Queenstown, having graced the lake for over a century. Now 110 years old, this iconic steamship has some history within its walls. While the town celebrates the TSS Earnslaw’s milestone birthday, it also prepares for what’s to come. Many more years of being the favourite passenger-carrying steamship in the adventure capital of the world, plus a few significant changes to the beloved gem are in the pipeline. Here are some things you may not know about the TSS Earnslaw to get you excited for your next scenic lake cruise in Queenstown!
1. It’s the oldest passenger-carrying steamship in the Southern Hemisphere
One of the biggest accolades of the TSS Earnslaw is its long career as a passenger-carrying steamship. The TSS Earnslaw is in full working order and daily scenic cruises run along Lake Wakatipu as one of the top things to do in Queenstown. The beautiful steamship has been maintained since 1912 and it’s old-world charm has remained. The TSS (twin screw steamer) Earnslaw is coal-fired and you can even check out the engine room while on board. The ship has a long history of ferrying people and goods to otherwise inaccessible areas around Queenstown. From as early as 1863, the TSS Earnslaw has been functioning on southern waters.
2. There’s a licensed bar on board
Enjoy a glass of your favourite tipple as you cruise along the lake in Queenstown. There’s plenty to discover while onboard the TSS Earnslaw including the wheelhouse and informative displays. The licensed bar is a welcome feature that adds to the very special feel of cruising along such a specular part of New Zealand on this historic steamship. This also makes a lake cruise on the TSS Earnslaw a great experience if you’re celebrating! Be it a birthday getaway, an anniversary escape or even your first trip to Queenstown, grab a glass of bubbles and soak up the experience.
To up the ante, book a gourmet BBQ experience at Walter Peak too! Cruise on the Earnslaw to the Walter Peak Homestead for a seriously delicious lunch or dinner experience, before cruising back to Queenstown.
3. She has time off the lake for maintenance
If you’re planning a trip to Queenstown, be sure to factor this scheduled maintenance in so you don’t miss your opportunity to experience the incredible steamship. Once a year, usually between May and July, the TSS Earnslaw has some time off the lake for restoration work and maintenance. You’ll see her parked up in Kelvin Heights receiving first-class treatment. Regular upkeep is key to ensuring this steamship stays on the lake carrying passengers for many more years to come.
4. A must-do in Queenstown, even for royalty
The quirks and charms of this steamship draw in crowds from afar, including those of royal status. Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip were both aboard in March 1990. The TSS Earnslaw has also carried The Duke of York, the Duke of Gloucester, the King and Queen of Belgium, the Prince of Thailand and many others. Plus, Bill Clinton has checked out this Queenstown icon too!
5. Going green
In the spirit of preserving places and experiences for generations to come, the team at Real NZ are looking at ditching coal and finding alternative ways to fuel the 110-year-old steamship. With so many years of passenger-carrying under its belt, it feels right to be preparing for the future so the TSS Earnslaw remains a significant part of the furniture in Queenstown.
This article was created in paid partnership with Real NZ.
