Join us for a relaxing cruise along the magnificent Lake Taupo aboard The Ernest Kemp, a beautiful vintage replica steamboat!
Lake Taupo, one of the largest freshwater volcanic craters in the world, is home to the famous Maori Rock Carvings.
Only accessible by boat, we will get you the closest to these incredible 10 metre high carvings which tower high over New Zealand’s largest lake. Learn about the spiritual and cultural significance of the area from your skippers interesting and informative commentary.
With comfortable seating both inside and out, bathroom facilities and a licensed bar, we’ll ensure your cruise on the Ernest Kemp will be warm and comfortable. Your skipper even welcomes you to join him in the wheelhouse and take a turn at the wheel! Bring a towel as there may be an opportunity for a swim *at skippers discretion.
The Ernest Kemp cruise is an enjoyable outing and a great way to see the Maori Rock Carvings and to get out onto Lake Taupo.
Cruise Duration:
10:30am, 2pm, 5pm and 7pm = 2 hour (approx).
9:00am, 12:30pm, 4:30pm = 1.5 hour (approx).
All prices are shown inNZD ($)
Staff are lovely and informative! Great humour - kids were able to get their steering license for the boat and that was a highlight for them!
Thank you for your review, Rahia! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your trip with us, our crew's company and that your kids had a good trip with us as well. Have a wonderful day!
All round great. Captain was very informative and crew offered to take pictures for us often
Hi Royce! Thank you for your review. We are pleased to hear that you enjoyed your trip with us and our crew's company. Thanks again!
You will not be disappointed by a cruise on the Ernest Kemp. The crew on board were attentive and super friendly. The boat itself is a beautiful vessels. On board they have a small menu of drinks and snacks that were very well priced. When you arrive at the Maori rock carvings you are taken up close so you are able to see the details all while the skipper is explaining the history. This cruise will not disappoint
Thank you for your kind review, Dave! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your trip with us and our crew's company. Have a lovely rest of your day.
This cruise was fantastic, friendly staff & informative Captain. My son (8yrs old) was given the opportunity to steer the boat which he thoroughly enjoyed & the captain was really fantastic with teaching him.
Hi Jen, thank you for the lovely review! We're so glad both you and your son had a fantastic time. It’s great to hear he enjoyed steering the boat, our Captain will be thrilled to know he made it special. Have a lovely day!
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Ievon Patabendige fromNew Zealand wrote on 26 October 2025
Ernest Kemp Māori Rock Carving Cruise – Taupō
Great service! The crew were friendly and welcoming, and they even gave my kid the chance to steer the boat — such a wonderful gesture. The Māori Rock Carvings were amazing to see up close. It was an awesome and memorable experience for our family. Highly recommended!