Winter — Queenstown
Winter Water Sports in Queenstown
Every other water sports operator in Queenstown closes for winter. We are the only one on the lake year-round — heated boat, premium wetsuits, snow-capped mountains, and the calmest water of the year.
Book Your Winter SessionYear-Round Adventures
Why Winter on the Lake?
Lake Wakatipu never freezes. Fed by underground springs and sheltered by the surrounding ranges, the lake remains open and rideable every day of the year. In winter, the water is remarkably calm — fewer boats on the lake means glassy, undisturbed conditions that are perfect for wake surfing.
Over 90% of days are operable year-round, and on the rare occasions when weather closes the main lake, Frankton Arm — a sheltered inlet close to town — remains workable in virtually any conditions. Your session is almost never at risk.
Snow-capped mountains create a backdrop unlike anything you will find in summer. The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Walter Peak are draped in white, and the low winter light turns the lake a deep, vivid blue. It is Queenstown at its most dramatic.
Most water sports operators in Queenstown close from May to September. We are the only one running year-round. When the ski slopes are closed for the day, or your legs need a break from the mountain — the lake delivers. A winter session on the water is one of the best things to do in Queenstown during the off-season.
Built for Winter
Comfort in Every Season
The Centurion Ri245 — official towboat of the World Wake Surfing Championship — is built for year-round operation. Every detail from heated seating to a full weather enclosure is designed to keep you comfortable in alpine conditions.
Heated Seating
Integrated seat heaters keep you warm between rides, even on the coldest Queenstown mornings.
Warm Air Outlets
The cabin climate system circulates warm air throughout the boat, maintaining a comfortable temperature at all times.
Full Enclosure
A complete bimini and side enclosure shelters passengers from wind, rain, and spray — the cabin stays dry and protected.
Premium Wetsuits
Advanced stretch wetsuits with thermal lining provide excellent insulation in the water, keeping riders warm and flexible.
Food & Hot Drinks Included
Every session includes complimentary hot drinks and snacks on board. Warm up between rides with a coffee or hot chocolate — fuel included, no extras to pay.
Complimentary Media Package
Take home professional 360° camera footage of your session. Winter scenery on Lake Wakatipu makes for some of the most stunning photos and videos you will ever get on the water.
Professional Guidance
Our experienced crew monitors conditions and ensures every rider is comfortable, confident, and safe in winter conditions.
Winter Activities
What You Can Do in Winter
Every activity we offer in summer is available in winter. The lake is open, the boat is ready, and the conditions are often even better.
Wake Surfing & Wakeboarding
The calm winter lake produces glassy, undisturbed water — ideal conditions for a clean, powerful surf wave behind the Centurion Ri245, the official towboat of the World Wake Surfing Championship. Many of our best sessions happen in winter.
Scenic Cruising
Snow-capped Remarkables, Cecil Peak draped in white, low golden light on the water. Winter cruising on Lake Wakatipu is a photographer's dream.
Tubing
High-speed fun on the water regardless of temperature. The wetsuits keep you warm and the adrenaline does the rest.
Wakeboarding & Water Skiing
The full range of tow sports is available year-round. Calm winter conditions and an empty lake give you all the space you need.
For Skiers & Snowboarders
The Alternative to the Slopes
No snow on the mountain? Lifts closed for wind? Legs wrecked after three days of riding? The lake is always open. Wake surfing on Lake Wakatipu is the perfect complement to a Queenstown ski trip — same adrenaline, completely different muscles, and conditions that don't depend on snowfall.
Wake surfing and wakeboarding use your core and upper body, giving your ski legs a complete rest while keeping the rush going. Not a board-sport person? Choose a scenic cruise through snow-capped mountains — no need to get in the water at all.
Whether it's a rest day between ski days, a no-snow backup plan, or something completely different for non-skiers in the group — a session on the lake is one of the best winter activities in Queenstown.
Book a Rest Day SessionFAQ
Winter FAQ
No. Lake Wakatipu never freezes. It is a deep alpine lake fed by rivers and underground springs, and water temperatures remain well above freezing year-round. The lake sits at around 310 metres above sea level and reaches depths of over 380 metres — conditions that prevent ice formation entirely. We operate on the lake every month of the year.
Winter air temperatures in Queenstown typically range from 1 to 10 degrees Celsius. On the water it can feel a few degrees cooler due to wind chill. However, our Centurion Ri245 features heated seating, warm air outlets, and a full enclosure that keeps everyone comfortable between rides. When you are in the water, premium wetsuits provide excellent insulation.
Absolutely. The lake conditions in winter are often better than summer — fewer boats on the water means calmer, glassier surfaces that are ideal for wake surfing. Our captain monitors conditions closely and we carry all required safety equipment. The boat is purpose-built for year-round operation in alpine conditions.
We provide premium wetsuits with advanced stretch materials that keep you warm in the water. For time spent on the boat, dress in warm layers — a fleece or jacket, beanie, and warm socks. The heated cabin keeps you comfortable, but having your own warm clothing for open-air moments makes the experience even better.
Every session includes complimentary food and refreshments — hot drinks, hot chocolate, and snacks to keep you fuelled on the water. You also receive a complimentary media package with professional 360° camera footage of your session. Winter scenery on the lake makes for incredible photos. Premium wetsuits and all safety equipment are provided at no extra cost.
Absolutely. When the mountain has no snow, the lifts are closed for wind, or your legs just need a day off the slopes — the lake is always open. Wake surfing and wakeboarding use completely different muscles to skiing, so it is a genuine rest day for your legs while keeping the adrenaline going. It also works perfectly for mixed groups where not everyone skis — non-riders can enjoy a scenic cruise without getting in the water.
Over 90% of days are operable year-round. We run in most conditions including light rain and overcast skies. On the rare occasions when weather affects the main lake, Frankton Arm — a sheltered inlet close to town — remains workable in virtually any conditions, so we can almost always get you on the water. If we do need to reschedule, we work with you to find an alternative date or provide a full refund.
Winter sessions depart from Queenstown Marina on Lake Wakatipu — the same location year-round. We are 20 minutes from Arrowtown, 45 minutes from Glenorchy or Cromwell, about an hour from Wānaka, and two hours from Te Anau. The heated cabin and enclosed boat mean winter conditions don't affect your comfort on the water.