Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown
4.5
Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown
By Million Dollar Cruise
About
See magnificent scenery, lakeside homes, a historic dam, and rare birds on this Lake Wakatipu cruise from Queenstown. Experience lots of great photo opportunities that you wouldn’t see otherwise, and choose from being on the unobstructed sundeck, or the heated cabin. No need to worry about bringing supplies with you, as the boat has a onboard bar, with a good selection of beer, wine, and soft drinks.
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from per adult
$29.99
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 5-99, max of 61 per group
Duration: 1h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
English
Highlights
- Get great photo opportunities on this Lake Wakatipu Cruise
- Learn as you travel through live commentary
- Perfect for wildlife fans—look out for rare birds
- Stay hydrated—the boat has an onboard bar
- 90 minute Queenstown Lake Cruise.
- Restroom on board
- An Honesty Bar is available
What's not included- Transportation to/from attractions.
- Departure details
- 50 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand Please come down to the jetty - you will see our signage there.
Return details- Returns to original departure point
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 71002P1- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Honesty cash bar available.
- Most travelers can participate
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 61 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- What you can expect during your visit
- Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
- Guides required to regularly wash hands
- Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
- Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
- Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Community- Safety precautions are provided by the property and are not checked by Tripadvisor for accuracy.
- Which attractions will I visit with Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown?
- During this experience, places you will visit include:Discover and book Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown on Tripadvisor
- How much is Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown?
- Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown price starts from $30.91. Discover and book Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown on Tripadvisor
- What is the Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown cancellation policy?
- Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown on Tripadvisor
- Which company provides Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown?
- Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown is hosted by Million Dollar Cruise. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Million Dollar Cruise on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown on Tripadvisor
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 71002P1
Reserve your spot
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- You'll start at50 Beach Street50 Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, New ZealandPlease come down to the jetty - you will see our signage there.See address & details
- Pass byLake WakatipuQueenstownQueenstown Golf ClubKawarau RiverThe Remarkables Ski AreaFrankton Trail
- You'll return to the starting point
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About the operator
Million Dollar Cruise
1,506
Queenstown, New Zealand
Joined in September 2009
#14 of 51 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Queenstown
- tashus_1100Interesting factsGreat 'skipper/commentator'. He was humorous, but sensitive to the needs of his passengers, he has complete knowledge of the lake both historically and nautically. We learned a lot from this peaceful interesting trip. 90 minutes was not too long, it was just right
- Traveler5029727134800Great tour on Lake Whakatapu,Can thoroughly recommend this company. Price was reasonable for Queenstown and the information given was interesting. Trip lasted for 90 minutes, very relaxing sitting back and viewing some of the homes on the waterfront and interesting to learn about the several islands of Willow Trees and how they came about. Water is so clear and the depth varies depending on channels down at the Frankton end.
- miss_rodger00Fabulous day on the waterWe had a fabulous morning on the water with Wayne. Awesome commentary with history and fun facts. Loads of photo opportunities with incredible scenery. Wonderful service with our Captain Wayne and the bar is a great touch.
- Expedition64133300Amazing voyageThis was a wonderful trip and Captain Wayne was a truly awesome captain and tour guide. His thorough knowledge of the area and enthusiasm for showing passengers the best possible views and experience far exceeded my expectations. The boat was also clean and appeared very well maintained. On a cold winter's day the cabin is warm inside and still offers stunning panoramic views with the large windows, or go on top to the large open deck. Overall I highly recommend this tour to anyone in Queenstown.
- randjtaylor33000A wonderful look at the lakeA great way to see the new housing estates along with history of the area. The camera is an essential piece to take as the mountain range is so beautiful.
- padprod00Great cruise of the lakeRally enjoyed the cruise on the lake. Although fairly small by tourist cruise boat standards there was plenty of room on the outside deck which is where the best views are. Otherwise you could relax inside. Captain Wayne was one of the best guides I’ve had, enthusiastic and amusing, despite probably giving the spiel many times. Good that you could hear the commentary from the outside dick too. So much better than an audio recording. Nothing was too much trouble and you could tell he wanted his guests to have a good time. His patience with the photos was impressive! Had some interesting insights into the area as well: always nice to come away having learnt something. Awesome!
- BobK49900Best value for money in QueenstownThis a brilliant and inexpensive way of spending 90 minutes cruising the lake and hearing all about Queenstown’s history. Captain Wayne was as informative as he was amusing and nothing was too much trouble for him. The boat is very comfortable and there’s even a serve yourself bar onboard. Support local businesses. Highly recommended.
- GBtravellinggirl00Excellent little cruiseWe were only in Queenstown for 48 hours and wanted to see as much as possible. This 1.5 hours cruise cost 39 NZ dollars each, the captain is a local man and therefore full of local information. He gives good commentary and is funny too. The ship is beautifully clean and well kept. An honesty bar is available , with seating on top in good weather and under cover inside if it is cold or raining. There is a toilet too. Excellent value, a good way to spend some time in this beautiful place cruising the lake. Go for it!!
- pipperidge00Informative, fun and relaxingWe took the boat trip on a cold and windy Spring day but that didn't dampen any spirits on this boat trip. Our captain was full of fun and interesting bits of info on Queenstown and the lake. It's nice to have a guide who has grown up in the area, something that seems quite rare in a transient place. It was an overcast day but still nice out on the lake enjoying the views and the fresh air. I would certainly recommend taking this tour.
- Bill29100A great way to relax on the lake.We decided to take this 90 minute trip on Lake Wakatipu and it was everything that it we expected and more. A very informative commentary by Captain Max ensured that we were able to learn even more about the Queenstown/Frankton area than we already knew and his wry sense of humour was very entertaining. The vessel was a good stablke platform for photography and very clean/well maintained.
- Trup00Great fun! Just do it!I had been a bit hesitant but my wife really wanted to do this --- so I agreed to go. Why did I hesitate?!? This was great fun and provided views that one doesn't get from the town of Queenstown.
- JacquiePal00Great time hadThanks Max. We had a wonderfully casual but informative time with you. Facilities were exceptionally clean. Everything was reasonably priced.
- beejoy7300Peaceful and picturesque!We had an amazing boat trip. Our captain was great and we got to learn a lot about Queenstown while taking in the beautiful vistas. It was very relaxed and a nice change from the crazy adrenaline charged adventures we were having at other times. The bar was casual and accepts cash only. It was a great way to spend an afternoon.
- Quirke2100GreatWe were trying to save money on our trip as Queenstown is very expensive so we decided on this tour. Well it was great! Despite what people say it was NOT about realestate we learnt about the water being 99% pure, the various boats in the lake and their history plus other interesting facts like the pine trees are invasive. Our Irish guide/captain was lovely and very friendly and approachable. Definitely value for money
- NicoleSydney2500Easy for older crowdThe skipper was delightful and very knowledgeable and great to listen to his knowledge of the history of the local area but it was too focused on the price of the real estate, which we don't care for. We aren't househunting. Getting more information on the history or anything else would have been better received. The Skipper also took a few good shots of us with a great backdrop - The Remarkables. It was a good experience as we spent 90 minutes taking in the amazing views only Frankton of Queenstown.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,069 reviews
Excellent
855
Very good
170
Average
25
Poor
8
Terrible
11
TarshaandKristian
Auckland Central, New Zealand113 contributions
May 2021
This is our second time on the Million Dollar Lake Cruise, we also went in Summer, and now in Autumn. We now want to have a turn in every season, it is AMAZING! We would highly recommend this cruise to anyone, and everyone. The commentary is really informative, and entertaining, definitely not too much. The time on the water is just right, and the boat is very clean and well kept. There are a range of options of where you can sit, which is great. What see is pure magic, the captain knows all the perfect places to take you, and will even capture a photo for you with The Remarkables in the background.
We are looking forward to our next cruise with the Team at Million Dollar.
We are looking forward to our next cruise with the Team at Million Dollar.
Written May 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
thanksTarsha, great to hear you thought our cruise was pure magic!!
Written May 21, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
homeagain255103
Perth, Australia49 contributions
It was the last tour of the day, but Captain Max still sounded enthusiastic about at trip he probably has done a million times. Maybe he gets a dollar for every cruise :-). In 90 mins it is hard to go to far at 8-10 knots but a lap of Frankton Arm Lake ensued with an occasional “chirp” from Captain Max identifying some of the history and larger residences along the way. Not bad value for a short trip to see the lakes from the other side... 320 m ASL. Good one Capt. Max!
Written January 22, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Thank you for your 5 star review and good to hear that you enjoyed our cruise. Will pass your comments on to Max. It is a nice relaxing cruise and a good way to learn a bit about Queenstown.
Written February 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Heidi014
Buffalo, NY77 contributions
Feb 2020
We enjoyed our tour on the lake, especially the captain's knowledge of the local history and geography, and his sense of humor. We would have preferred more time cruising along the shoreline away from the town, but the captain seemed keen to show us some of the lovely homes close to the water. We certainly recommend this tour. It provided good value and an enjoyable 90 minute experience on the lake.
Written February 13, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Great to hear you enjoyed our cruise Heidi. It's a great way to learn about Queenstown and sit back and relax. Been stunning weather too which helps add to the enjoyment.
Written February 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Joli_Papillon
San Francisco, CA64 contributions
Mar 2020
This 1.5-hour tour of Lake Wakatipu had running commentary by the captain. The lake is absolutely beautiful and seeing Queenstown from the water was a treat. For a low-key activity with gorgeous scenery, it was worth the time and money spent.
Written March 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Thank you for your lovely review - the lake is beautiful and also the scenery, I never get sick of looking at it even though I have been here for over 26 years. I still stop my truck to take photos although they are never as good as the real thing.
Written March 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sez
Auckland, New Zealand6 contributions
After not being able to do the 4pm cruise (low numbers), we jumped on the 11am cruise the next day with Wayne and it was amazing! Wayne is such a character and his commentary is awesome - informative and had us in fits of laughter the entire time. Intimate cruise, great having not so many people crowded on the boat. Spectacular 360 degree views from the top of the boat, can be a bit chilly so make sure you wear layers if you want to spend the entire time up here. Bar and food available on board that operates with a cash only honesty box - love it! Definitely recommend and it’s great to support locally owned business. Thanks Wayne and Betty!
Written October 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Wow thanks for the glowing review - we love to hear great things about us and thank you for supporting our small family business. Wayne doesn't Skipper much these days and only fills in when our other Skippers are away so he really enjoys the days he does do.
Written October 11, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
DaleCobb
5 contributions
Jan 2021
Betty & Wayne are the most friendliest, warmest and welcoming hosts. From start to finish they treated us like kings. Wayne's infectious laughter kept us well informed and entertained the entire journey. Would highly recommend people to experience this unique and entertaining experience. My wife was unwell and could not make the trip and they generously refunded our fare, but honestly, they didnt have to. I know all operators are struggling, but this gesture was the sort of service that sets them apart and I will remember and acknowledge by recommending people help them out and take the trip. My wife cant wait to get on board next time we visit. Thanks an absolute million
Written February 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Wow thanks Dale so pleased you enjoyed your experience with us - we do our best to make people feel welcome. Wayne only does one trip a week or perhaps a few more if staff want time off so he really enjoys the time he does do the cruise. It was our pleasure to host you guys and look forward to the time you bring you wife. - Betty
Written February 16, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
donna b
Christchurch, New Zealand52 contributions
Mar 2020 • Couples
Great fun and our skipper was very informative and funny; had many laughs cruising the lake and looking at Queenstown and some extremely amazing and beautiful buildings. Enjoyed being able to buy a couple of beers to sit back with and relax. Many different areas on boat to enjoy the scenery including indoor table area and open decks outside. Value for money and would do it again.
Written March 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Wow thanks for the fabulous 5 star review. Great to hear that you thought it was fun and the Skipper wasn't too bad either. Nothing better than having a drink on a boat sitting back and relaxing.!!
Written March 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jesse M
3 contributions
Aug 2020
A group of friends and myself were in Queenstown for a couple of days and wanted something chill to do. This was far more bang for our buck than we thought! Betty was warm and welcoming on the jetty. Wayne was so funny, was able to keep us engaged with his narrative of Queenstown, and was more than happy to take photos for people (I even got one driving the boat!).
Was a fantastic way to spend an hour and a half on Lake Wakatipu. Thank you Wayne and Betty!
Was a fantastic way to spend an hour and a half on Lake Wakatipu. Thank you Wayne and Betty!
Written August 28, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Wow thanks for the glowing review. Wayne and myself don't often get to work together much these days and it reminds us of when it was just him and me working 7 days!!! Still it was all worth it and we like to pride ourselves on how well we have done. So pleased that you enjoyed our cruise and hope to see you again soon.
Written May 30, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
alupka
Kerikeri, New Zealand20 contributions
May 2021
This cruise just goes around the Frankton basin so you won't go into the larger Lake Wakatipu. The commentary is about the history and houses of Queenstown. The captain is a throwback to the 70s where his opinions were formed and haven't really changed much. The jokes are maybe funny for a particular type of kiwi of a certain generation and nobody else. I imagine over the years he's had to cut out his even more offensive material. There are times when he could switch off his microphone when he is talking to passengers rather than give us a running commentary. The physical views - well you can see them pretty much everywhere around Queenstown. Some Chinese tourists clearly didn't understand his instructions about going down the ladder backwards but he made them the butt of some of his "witty" remarks. If you're at all a citizen of the world you don't need to hear this, give it a miss.
Written May 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
will speak to Wayne regarding some of this otherwise the majority of people enjoy our cruise and Wayne's commentary, although it is rather a personal attack!! Its hard to please everyone all of the time. And yes we do go around the Frankton Arm and that is what we advertise ,nothing about going out on the main lake although we do before we turn to go down the Arm.There are other cruises that do that as we all have different routes.
Written May 21, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
AbellRentals
Yaldhurst, New Zealand25 contributions
Jun 2020 • Couples
Certainly a nice way to spend a couple of hours cruising around the lake. Betty gave excellent service at the booking kiosk and her husband Wayne knew everything about the lake and history of Queenstown as only a passionate local would know. I just love dealing with the owners of businesses like Funnyman Wayne and his very lucky wife Betty.
Written July 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Betty P
Thank you for your 5 star review - did Wayne pay you to say how lucky I was. Ha Ha!! Yes Wayne is a hive of information and as he only does the cruise every now and then these days he really enjoys himself as it is a bit of novelty now.
Written August 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Fredericoward
London, UK6 contributions
My daughter is four years old - is she free?
dick u
Edisto Island, SC32 contributions
I do not know.
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Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown provided by Million Dollar Cruise
Product Overview: Million Dollar Cruise in Queenstown
| Prices From | $0 |
|---|---|
| Number of Reviews | 1,069 |
| Number of Photos | 507 |
| Duration | 90 minutes |




























































