Sail Fearless - Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings, Lake Taupo

4.9
361

Experience the best way to explore Lake Taupo and choose the most environmentally friendly way to travel. Set sail on a timeless journey to see the Māori Rock Carvings aboard a beautiful classical sailing boat!

Experience the best way to explore Lake Taupo and choose the most environmentally friendly way to travel. Set sail on a timeless journey to see the Māori Rock Carvings aboard a beautiful classical sailing boat!

Highlights

  • Feel the thrill of real sailing aboard a classic yacht powered by the wind
  • Glide quietly across Lake Taupō and connect with nature sustainably
  • Sail with a friendly local crew who share stories, knowledge, and true Kiwi hospitality
  • Enjoy the lake’s crystal waters with the longest swim break of any operator
  • Small groups, cozy comforts, and relaxed vibes make it feel like sailing with friends
  • Enjoy a complimentary drink

Escape the hectic life and enjoy your sailing experience on our classical sailing yacht Fearless for timeless charm and authentic sailing.

Explore the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Only view-able from the water, the likeness of Ngātoroirangi towers 14-meters above Lake Taupō.

Powered by the wind, this eco-friendly experience lets you explore nature in its purest form - quiet, clean, and unforgettable. And when the wind picks up and the yacht heels gracefully into the breeze, guests feel that exhilarating surge of adrenaline - a moment of pure connection as they face fearless, the raw power of the water.

Relax on the large deck space, listen to our experienced skippers and learn about the history of the lake. Give the crew a hand hoisting the sails and take a turn on the wheel or just snuggle under some blankets with a drink in your hand.

Take a dip and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (weather dependent).

Itinerary

  • Set Sail Across Lake Taupō: Step aboard our eco-friendly yacht and let the wind guide you across the stunning, crystal-clear waters of New Zealand’s largest lake. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of sailing.
  • Discover the Māori Rock Carvings: Marvel at the breathtaking 14-metre carvings of Ngātoroirangi—an awe-inspiring piece of contemporary Māori art, only accessible by water.
  • Hear Stories of the Lake: Our knowledgeable skipper will share captivating legends and history of Lake Taupō, adding cultural depth to your journey.
  • Swim in a Volcanic Crater: If you're feeling brave, take a refreshing dip in the pristine waters of this ancient volcanic caldera—an unforgettable way to connect with nature. (Weather dependent)
  • Join the Sailing Fun: Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at hoisting the sails or take the wheel for a true sailing experience under the crew’s guidance.
  • Relax & Unwind: Cozy up with a drink, enjoy great music, and soak up the views. It’s the perfect way to unwind.
Adult $59.00
Child $49.00 (3 - 14 years inclusive)
Infant $0.00 (0-2 years inclusive)
Sunset Adult $75.00
Sunset Child + Infant $65.00 (Child 3- 14 years inclusive, infant 0-2 years inclusive)

What's included

  • 9.30am : Māori Rock Carving Scenic Cruise - complimentary hot drink & biscuit. Light refreshments can be purchased on board or you can bring your own light refreshments for your convenience.
  • 12.30pm: Māori Rock Carving Scenic Cruise - complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink. Light refreshments can be purchased on board or you can bring your own light refreshments for your convenience.
  • 3.30pm : Māori Rock Carving Scenic Cruise - complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink. Light refreshments can be purchased on board or you can bring your own light refreshments for your convenience.
  • Sunset Cruise (times vary throughout the year) - Sunset Heaven: Māori Rock Carving Scenic Cruise - 1 glass of beer, wine or non-alcoholic drinks. Light refreshments can be purchased on board or you can bring your own light refreshments for your convenience.
  • Blankets and wet weather gear on all of our trips

Duration

  • Allow approx. 2.5 hours for the whole experience

Location

  • Berth #16/17
  • 65 Redoubt Street
  • Taupo 3330
  • New Zealand

Child Friendly

  • This experience welcomes families with children.

Bad Weather Refunds

  • If your experience is cancelled by the operator (because of the bad weather, safety concerns, unscheduled maintenance etc) you will be entitled to a full refund.

Notes

  • Please note the sunset cruise departure varies due to sunset times throughout the year. No sunset trip during the winter.

    Please contact the operator if you have any questions (all contact information will be provided on your booking confirmation email). Sailing trips are subject to minimum numbers, lake and weather conditions.

    Please let us know in advance if you have medical issues. The skipper has the last call on check in to decide if the trip is suitable regarding medical issues due to health and safety.

    People failing to show up for check-in will not be refunded. In some situations, with advance notice and with payment of a transfer fee and potential extra costs (food, price difference, depending on the trip), we might be able to transfer you to another trip.

    We reserve the right to upgrade passengers to our other sailing yacht Tiua should weather conditions, demand or other circumstances require it. No extra costs will apply. The trip at 9.30am might be postponed by 30min in such circumstances.

    In the event of quickly changing bad weather and lake conditions, it may not be possible to view the Mori Rock Carvings, this decision is made at the discretion of the skipper for the health and safety of all on board the vessel.

  • Child Age is 3 - 14 years inclusive. Infants 0 - 2 years.

Available Bookings from4 Feb to 17 Feb 2026

All prices are shown inNZD ($)

Change Dates
Wed 4 Feb
Thu 5 Feb
Fri 6 Feb
Sat 7 Feb
Sun 8 Feb
Mon 9 Feb
Tue 10 Feb
Wed 11 Feb
Thu 12 Feb
Fri 13 Feb
Sat 14 Feb
Sun 15 Feb
Mon 16 Feb
Tue 17 Feb

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$24.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$39.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$59.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Adult$45.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Child$49.00
  • Infant Free of Charge

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00 Less than 6 at this price!
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00

  • Sunset Adult$64.00
  • Sunset Child + Infant$65.00
Informative cruise Magnifique Sunset cruise Excellent Sailing Taupō sunset cruise
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Authenticated Reviews

Real highlights, tips, and the helpful advice straight from Bookme customers who’ve actually done this experience, summarised with AI support

  • emergencyCustomers loved the stunning views and beautiful scenery on Lake Taupo (45 people said this).
  • emergencyThe friendly and knowledgeable crew received high praise for their hospitality and informative commentary (40 people said this).
  • emergencyMany enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere and the opportunity to swim in the clear waters (35 people said this).
  • emergencyThe Māori rock carvings were highlighted as a must-see, adding cultural significance to the experience (30 people said this).
  • emergencyGuests appreciated the comfortable and spacious boat, making for a pleasant sailing experience (25 people said this).
  • emergencyThe sunset views during the cruise were often mentioned as a highlight of the trip (20 people said this).
  • star_shineConsider bringing a swimsuit for a refreshing swim.
    Don't forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery and carvings!.

4.9

361 reviews

Showing all 361 authenticated Bookme reviews

Tabitha Jenkins from New Zealand wrote on 02 February 2026

Wild ride

What an adventure, an absolutely incredible journey on lake Taupo with my two best friends. We loved seeing the carvings and experiencing the beautiful water for our swim. Everything was perfect. Except for perhaps the safety. There was only one staff/skipper on the Yacht, and during our sail the rope snapped to the sail, resulting in the boat tipping sideways, and everyone going for a slide. I've had sailing experience so was able to brace myself quickly, however I think it was a shock for those who haven't had sailing experience before including the children on board. Perhaps to keep this from happening in the future there could be more than one staff member on board to mitigate these types of situations. All in all a fabulous adventure, just so unfortunate that we weren't able to sail because of that slight mishap.

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amandae8 from Mexico wrote on 28 January 2026

Amazing

The travel was amazing!

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From Sail Fearless - Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings, Lake Taupo

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. Kind regards, Taupo Sailing Adventures.

gulinam from New Zealand wrote on 27 January 2026

Absolutely amazing!!!

Loved every minute of this experience. Lifetime memories with my overseas family is created. Highly recommend.

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From Sail Fearless - Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings, Lake Taupo

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. Kind regards, Taupo Sailing Adventures.

Scott Chapman-Wallis from United Kingdom wrote on 18 January 2026

Informative cruise

We ended up on the bigger catamaran as the smaller vessel needed something sorting. A great cruise, very comfortable, knowledgeable crew, and nice refreshments (including hot chocolate - I'd taken some along as normally it just tea and coffee) When we got there the crew explained Al about the art and how it was created, before we anchored nearby for a swim. (fun to be able to jump in from the top of the coach roof).

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From Sail Fearless - Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings, Lake Taupo

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. Kind regards, Taupo Sailing Adventures.

Alan Saunders from New Zealand wrote on 16 January 2026

Sailing Lake Taupo

Lovely morning out on the lake, great informative guides so felt like we took home a bit of history.

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From Sail Fearless - Classical Sailing to the Māori Rock Carvings, Lake Taupo

Thank you for taking the time to leave us a review. Kind regards, Taupo Sailing Adventures.

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Booking

10:00 a.m.Thursday 13 July

12

Adult

Child 3 - 14 years inclusive

Infant 0-2 years inclusive

Adult

Child 3- 14 years inclusive

Infant 0-2 years inclusive

Sunset Adult

Sunset Child + Infant Child 3- 14 years inclusive, infant 0-2 years inclusive

*This option must be made together with another price type.
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