Lake Wanaka Cruises and Clutha Jet at Lakeland Adventures
There’s heaps to explore around Wanaka, and one of the best ways to see it all is from the water. Lake Wanaka Cruises offers some great trips so you can really get up close to some native bush and scenery.
They offer a two and a half hour cruise with heaps of interesting commentary before landing on Stevenson’s Island. There’s a chance to join in a 15 minute walk up to a scenic lookout with great views out over Lake Wanaka. It’s a good idea to keep your eyes peeled as well, as it’s also home to the Buff Weka, a small native flightless bird which you might be lucky enough to spot.
There’s also a three and a half hour cruise to nearby Mou Waho Island on offer. Here you can step off the boat for a walk to the top of the island, chow down on a picnic overlooking the amazing Arethusa Pool and keep a lookout for the endangered Alpine Weta. There are also landings to Ruby Island too.
On all cruises, you’ll get to learn about the history of the lake and the islands, and there’s a chance to enjoy some light refreshments with your fellow cruisers.
Or if you fancy the thrill of speed, step aboard the Clutha River Jet for one hour of jet boating on New Zealand’s largest Clutha River. You’ll see awesome scenery as you race across the water, along with indulging in some cool jet boat thrills. Not only will you skim over rocks and sandbars, you’ll also power through rapids and giant pressure waves as you get a wicked perspective of Lake Wanaka.
However you fancy taking to the water - fast or slow - make sure you put it on your to-do list.
Lakeland Adventures also has rental equipment for hire including kayaks, water bees, aqua bikes and mountain bikes. Plus they run guided fishing trips for quinnett salmon , brown and rainbow trout. All gear and light refreshments are supplied.
For more details about Lake Wanaka Cruises, the Clutha River Jet or fishing trips and equipment hire call 03 443 7495 or 03 443 1230, freephone 0508 525 352, email bookings@wanakacruises.co.nz or visit www.wanakacruises.co.nz
You can also email action@lakelandadventures.co.nz or check out www.lakelandadventures.co.nz for more details about the Clutha Jet and fishing trips.
Rachel stayed at the home-from-home Purple Cow Hostel, 94 Brownston Street, Wanaka, with great views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
For more information call Freephone 0800 772 277 or 03 443 1880 or email info@purplecow.co.nz or visit www.purplecow.co.nz
