Southern Discoveries Launches Princess Cruise in Queenstown

One of Milford Sound’s oldest and most well-established tourism operators has expanded its business further into the resort town of Queenstown, launching scenic sightseeing cruises on stunning Lake Wakatipu.

Southern Discoveries has launched lake boat trips on the Queenstown Princess, taking visitors on sightseeing cruises of the iconic lake and the magnificent snow-capped mountains that surround it.

Lake trips depart three times daily from Queenstown Bay in the heart of the town and take passengers on a journey over to Cecil Peak and along the Frankton Arm, where it stops at scenic points along the way to explore the region and its natural beauty.

The 13m boat caters for groups of up to 30 and the one-and-a-half-hour cruise includes an informative guide talking to passengers about local history and Maori legends.

The trip includes five stops in the Frankton Arm to experience ‘the sound of silence’ at Kelvin Heights peninsula with uninterrupted views to The Remarkables mountain range.

Southern Discoveries’ General Manager John Robson said guests would also enjoy two complete 360-degree turns in the confluence of Queenstown Bay and in the Frankton Arm, allowing for a full uninterrupted vista of the lake.

“The Queenstown Princess cruises some of Queenstown’s most wonderful alpine lakeside scenery, past the Queenstown Gardens, the world-renowned Kelvin Heights golf course and some very impressive homes,” he said.

“Because the boat stops often, passengers have the chance to learn some essential local history and knowledge from our skipper and to ask plenty of questions.”

Mr Robson said the cruise was mainly targeted at the backpacker market wanting to get out and explore the lake.

“We have this vast body of water out there that is very under-utilised,” he said. “The Princess can hold up to 30 people but will depart with lower numbers for those seeking more of a ‘personal’ experience.”

Free tea, coffee and biscuits are provided on the trip, and the Queenstown Princess can also be chartered out for private use.

Southern Discoveries is also offering fishing trips for up to 7 passengers with their specialist fishing guide. Lake Wakatipu is perfect for fishing for salmon and trout, and with their local knowledge each trip is unique.

Trips depart at 10.30am, 12.30pm and 3pm daily. Bookings can be made at the Southern Discoveries office at 30 Shotover Street, Queenstown.

ENDS

© Scoop Media