Lake Wanaka is the kind of big backyard you only get in this part of the world, glassy water framed by the Southern Alps, with a handful of islands worth the trip out. The good news for families is that most of these cruises are gentle, short and dead easy, a relaxing boat ride, a bit of a wander on an island, and a cuppa somewhere along the way. Here is what is actually running out of Wanaka, and which ones suit the crew you have got with you.
Ruby Island Cruise and Photo Walk
The Ruby Island Cruise and Photo Walk is the pick for families short on time, a relaxed 60 minute cruise on a 17 metre luxury catamaran followed by a gentle 20 minute island walk. Kids will love hunting out the remains of the old 1920s dance hall, and it is genuinely hard to take a bad photo here with those mountains as your backdrop. Guests younger than 13 need to be with an adult. Allow 1.5 hours.
Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk
The Stevensons Island Cruise and Nature Walk is a bit more of an adventure, cruising 45 minutes out past Mount Gold to Stevensons Arm before a nature hike up to views of the Minaret Peaks, with a proper afternoon tea served on the way back. It is a great fit for families with slightly older kids who can handle a short hike, and the local Māori and colonial history stories keep everyone entertained along the way. Child rates apply, ages 0 to 15, with infants 0 to 4. Allow 2.5 hours.
Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk
The Mou Waho Island Cruise and Guided Nature Walk heads further out to a predator-free nature reserve, with a guided bush walk leading to Arethusa's Pool, a glacial lake that somehow sits right on top of the island itself. It is a proper little adventure for curious kids, with afternoon tea included once you have earned it on the walk. Allow half a day.
Kayak or Paddleboard with Cruise from Ruby Island
The Kayak or Paddleboard with Cruise from Ruby Island flips the script for families with older kids or teens keen for something a bit more active, a 45 minute self paddled trip out to Ruby Island followed by a relaxing powerboat cruise back. Pick your own departure time, spend as long as you like exploring the island, then let the crew know when you are ready for pick up. Allow 3 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Which Wanaka cruise is best for young kids?
The Ruby Island Cruise and Photo Walk is the shortest and gentlest option at 1.5 hours, with an easy 20 minute island walk that suits younger legs.
Do we need to be experienced kayakers for the Ruby Island paddle?
No, but it does involve a 45 minute self paddle each way, so it suits families with older kids or teens more than very young children.
Is afternoon tea included on Wanaka cruises?
Yes, both the Stevensons Island and Mou Waho cruises include afternoon tea, usually served on the way back into Wanaka.
What should we bring on a Lake Wanaka cruise?
Pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a warm layer for cooler weather and closed in shoes for the island walks, plus your own snacks and water.
Do these cruises run every day?
Most operate daily but need a minimum number of guests to go ahead, so book early and keep your afternoon flexible in case of a schedule change.
Local tip: book the earlier cruise time if your crew includes little ones who tire out by late afternoon, the morning boats tend to be calmer on the water too.
Book your Wanaka cruise above and let the kids loose on an island for the arvo. Easy.