TSS Earnslaw: A Century of Steam Romance

A must-do in Queenstown, New Zealand—take a ride on the century-old steamship! The TSS Earnslaw is the last coal-fired steamship still in operation in the Southern Hemisphere. Launched in 1912, it remains as vibrant as ever. Follow this guide for an immersive retro journey!

Boarding Location
Queenstown Bay, Queenstown 9300
(The ship is easily recognizable by its red smokestack on the lakeside in downtown Queenstown!)

⏰ Sailing Schedule
Multiple departures daily (advance booking on the official website is recommended)
Classic Route: Queenstown to Walter Peak High Country Farm (approximately 3 hours round trip)

🎫 Ticket Guide
✅ Online Booking: Visit the RealNZ website and select the TSS Earnslaw Cruise
✅ On-site Purchase: Tickets available at the dock (may sell out during peak season)
✅ Recommended Combo: Steamship + Farm Show + Lunch/Afternoon Tea (great value!)

✨ Must-Experience Highlights
1️⃣ Explore the Engine Room: Watch the crew shovel coal and feel the thunderous roar of the mechanical gears—truly awe-inspiring!
2️⃣ Piano Accompanied Sing-Along: Enjoy classic old songs in the ship’s saloon with a lively group sing-along 🎵
3️⃣ Deck Photo Tips: The bow on the second level and the stern on the third level are perfect for stunning shots! Consider wearing a vintage dress and straw hat for the ultimate retro vibe 👒
4️⃣ Feeding Seagulls: Purchase feed on board, raise your hand, and watch the seagulls circle around—so therapeutic (but beware of unexpected "gifts" from above, haha!)

🐑 Walter Peak Farm Activities
Don’t miss these after disembarking:
✔️ Watch a sheepdog herding demonstration
✔️ Hand-feed adorable alpacas
✔️ Savor freshly grilled BBQ lunch
✔️ Tour the century-old farm garden

📸 Photo Spot Recommendations
1. Frame the lake view through the ship’s round portholes (stunning light and shadow effects!)
2. Use the copper pipes in the engine room as an industrial-chic backdrop
3. Pose by the deck railing with snow-capped mountains and the lake as your backdrop
4. Capture candid moments with alpacas in front of the farm cottages

💡 Handy Tips
→ Bring a thick coat in winter! The lake breeze is freezing
→ Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a window seat
→ Check the website for family ticket discounts
→ Don’t miss the farm’s afternoon tea scones—they’re divine with cream!

"It felt like stepping into a scene from Titanic!"—That’s my biggest impression of the TSS Earnslaw. Watching the white steam puff from the smokestack as ripples spread across the lake, I was instantly transported back to the elegant days of the last century.

Save this guide and join me in becoming a retro queen on your next trip to Queenstown! 💃