Salvaged from the bottom of the Whanganui River where she sat for around 50 years, the Paddle Steamer Waimarie was restored to her former glory and re-launched in 2000 to make her New Zealand’s only authentic coal-fired paddle steamer in operation. Today, we can but dream of the hustle and bustle of the trading settlers and iwi who knew the Paddle Steamer Waimarie of old. Instead, we can enjoy her resurrection with a leisurely river cruise more fitting to her stately grace. Loved by adults and children alike, a scheduled or private charter cruise on the Paddle Steamer Waimarie offers a unique view of Whanganui.
Paddle Steamer Waimarie
A cruise aboard the iconic Paddle Steamer Waimarie is undoubtedly one of the most authentic ways to experience Whanganui River’s scenery and history.
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What our other guests have said
Don't miss this 2 hour cruise on the river if you are in Wanganui. Fantastic trip, friendly and very knowledgeable crew. Museum also very cool. loved it
Ruth Bowater
We couldn't have had a better experience! Beautiful scenery, friendly staff who couldn't do enough to help. We will be doing this trip every year without a doubt. Highly recommended!
Stacey Bell
Great little museum showing the history of the Whanganui river and the boats that have travelled along it. We took the 2 hour cruise on the steam powered boat at a cost of $49 per adult. The staff were excellent and the commentary very informative. Lovely tea, coffee and cakes at reasonable...
Laura Heyes
Whanganui, voted most beautiful small city and steaming along the river you can tell why. Went on the jazz cruise and it was delightful, great music and a very friendly crew. I would recommend this to anyone.
Geoff Zuy
Fantastic - must do - Whanganui experience. It's a lovely trip with so much to see and lots of interesting information too. Wave out on your trip - locals love it too. You'll be thrilled you had this fantastic experience - guarantee it
Rebecca NZ
Awesome experience. So glad I did it. Stunning views of the river and surrounds. It was fantastic hearing and seeing the history of this old steamer. Couldn't have had friendlier or more helpful staff.
Nico Doodeman
Thank you for a fantastic experience and trip with an awesome team, thoroughly recommend it.
Gareth Davies
Thank you for letting us have our wedding on board the whole atmosphere and the friendliness of the crew and manager made it a great memorable experience for us we couldn't have had a better place to get married
Shane Burrell
Fabulous 2 hour cruise Crew amazing and helpful loved loved loved it I say this is a must see in Wanganui The weather was perfect too
Trish Hill
Fantastic experience. Even had homing pigeons on board that they released when we got to the farthest point from the beginning. Great little cafe/bar on board also.
Simon Cope