Mou Waho Island Cruise: Guided Nature Walk and Lake

Embark on a scenic cruise to Mou Waho Island for guided nature walks and a visit to a stunning glacial lake. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and learn about the island’s history, geology, and culture.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Lake Wanaka - Cruise on Lake Wanaka to the famous Mou Waho Island Nature Reserve. Your knowledge kiwi skipper will provide commentary along the way.
  • Ruby Island - Pass Ruby Island with a the 1920’s dance hall on top
  • Mou Waho - Your guide will take you ashore for a guided walk on this predator-free nature reserve. Learn about the…
What's Included
  • Department of Conservation Park fees
  • Local skipper/guide
  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Cruise and guided Island walk
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information

Embark on a cruise to the distinctive Mou Waho Island for a guided nature walk to its natural glacial lake located at the island’s peak. Once on board our swift lake cruiser, guests can unwind in comfort and enjoy a 30-minute cruise amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, accompanied by commentary on local history, geology, and culture.
Upon arrival at…

Location
Lake Wanaka Cruises
Ardmore Street
You will board your vessel from the Wanaka Lake Front. In between the Old Town Jetty and the Dinosaur Park. Please be at the departure point before 8.45 am. If you are not present at 8.45 am, you may not be able to join the cruise.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(75 Ratings)
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1 star
Michelle_c
Jan 29, 2026
Spectacular! - The boat ride itself was enjoyable, and once on the island the views were stunning in every direction. Hike was easy and our guide was knowledgeable and informative without being overwhelming, which really enhanced the experience. A must-do if you’re visiting Lake Wānaka.
Review provided by Viator
Petrina_n
Jan 27, 2026
A lovely way to spend the day. - A lovely few hours on the lake learning all about the history of the area. Then a good hike to the top of the hill on Mou, and learn a lot about local plants, trees & birds
Review provided by Viator
232debrag
Jan 27, 2026
Must do in Wanaka - Amazing journey to see the “island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island.” The boat was super comfortable and our tour guide Jamie was incredibly helpful, friendly and super knowledgeable about the geology, botany and history of the area. Great way to spend a half day on Lake Wanaka!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mark_h
Jan 24, 2026
Island Tour on Lake Wanaka - Nice boat ride, beautiful scenery, interesting facts about the lake, island, wildlife and plants Need to be able to hike over some rocks and up a grade.
Review provided by Viator
Susan_c
Jan 21, 2026
Good value for money - A lovely excursion. A lovely boat ride up the lake and then a walk up to the top of the island. It foes get zteep at the top but we enjoyed it.
Review provided by Viator
Cip0410
Dec 8, 2025
Boat trip to Mou Waco Island - Took the Guided option which was very worthwhile. Toby was well informed, interesting and knowledgeable. Shop around for the best prices. Inadvertently we managed to save over $100 on the booking.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Stephen_m
Dec 6, 2025
Nice trip to island & moderately difficult walk - 35 min each way on small boat 15 pax in total. Steep climb at times, occasional damp (remember decent footwear. Im 71 with average capability. Managed the climb with a few stops to catch a breath. Well worth the views from the top. Jaimie was our guide who walked with me (others already spurted on ahead of the “group”). Really enjoyed the walk. Only spotted a bellbird, no weka for me but some did see the elusive bird🤣 Would do it again. Long drop type toilets by the island landing point for those in need🤪
Review provided by Viator
Mpm445
Nov 30, 2025
Excellent trip to Mou Waho Island - We had an excellent trip from Wanaka to Mou Waho island. The boat trip to and from the island went very smoothly with excellent views of the surrounding landscape of Wanaka. When we reached the island we had a very enjoyable guided walk to a lake at the top of the island and then proceeded to the summit of the island with spectacular 360 degree views. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Yashika_j
Nov 19, 2025
Try it! - This was a great experience with nice views and a bit of cardio/steps to round out the day. Jamie (guide) was very informative and personable. The boat ride out to the island was a little choppy initally because of the weather, but generally felt safe and comfortable during the ride. The walk up the island does require a little bit of fitness as it is a steady incline, BUT there are numerous rest points, you can take your time and go at your own pace and you don't have to walk all of the way to the top of the summit to enjoy nice views. We had a decent range of age groups, fitness levels etc., so don't feel intimidated. Great tour - would recommend.
Review provided by Viator
Lisabv9391to
Nov 13, 2025
360 degrees views! - Thoroughly enjoyed the walk on Mou Waho and cruise out to island. Tim was a great tour guide very knowledgeable. Scenery was amazing. Perfect weather.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $105
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).