While living in Queenstown over the past year, there haven't been many days that go by without seeing the TSS Earnslaw on its daily route to Walter Peak. As it blows dark clouds from it's coal burning furnaces into the sky, it's familiar horn sounds it's arrival. The Earnslaw has become an icon of the Queenstown beachfront. Two screws move the vessel through the waters of Lake Wakatipu - the TSS standing for 'Twin Screw Steamship'. Mount Earnslaw, which is located at the head of Lake Wakatipu, is where the steamship derives its name. The TSS Earnslaw was launched in 1912, the same year as the Titanic, celebrating it's 100th birthday just a few years ago. It is also known as The Lady of the Lake.
Except for a few winter months, visitors can enjoy farm tours, lunch or dinner, or a simple ride on the Earnslaw across to Walter Peak, year round. Real Journeys runs the tours and offer great locals discounts currently during the month of September. My friend Lucio, his partner Crystal, and my flatmate Laura decided to take advantage of the deals and spent the afternoon together grabbing lunch. It was delicious food with great service in a fantastic location.
After lunch we were invited to walk across the grounds to a farm tour. We were able to observe how sheep dogs are used to herd the flock and respond to farmer's commands. The dogs are quite smart and assist the farmer as though playing a game. We even had the chance to watch a sheep sheering demonstration as our host explained exactly how sheering had evolved and operates. We had a great time all around and I couldn't recommend more the TSS Earnslaw lake cruise, farm tour, and gourmet bbq lunch.
