Lake Taupō Travel Tips & Cruise Guides

Welcome to the Sail Barbary blog, your guide to the best things to do in Taupō, from the iconic Māori Rock Carvings to eco sailing on New Zealand's largest lake. Whether you're after family-friendly activities, a romantic outing, or ideas for your next Lake Taupō cruise, you'll find practical advice, local knowledge, and behind-the-scenes stories from the Sail Barbary crew right here.

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Family and kids enjoying a sailing cruise on Lake Taupō aboard Sail Barbary, one of the best family activities in Taupō.

15 Best Family Activities in Taupō

Planning a family trip to Taupō? Discover 15 of the best family activities in Taupō, from Huka Falls and geothermal attractions to lake cruises, hot pools and unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Travel Guides

6 min read

Why We Chose Eco Sailing on Lake Taupō?

Discover why we sail electric. From zero emissions and quiet cruising to lower running costs and renewable energy integration, electric yachts offer a smoother, smarter, and more sustainable way to explore Lake Taupō.

About

6 min read

Pantry shelf with labelled glass jars for tea, coffee, and Milo onboard Sail Barbary.

Sail Barbary Is an Eco-Friendly Company

We’re always finding ways to sail smarter. From recycled Arcoroc mugs and labelled jars to a new waste separation system, Sail Barbary is taking real steps to reduce onboard waste and champion sustainability.

Sustainability

1 min read

Tiaki – Care for New Zealand. Infographic showing five principles of the Tiaki Promise: Be prepared, drive carefully, keep NZ clean, protect nature, and show respect. Starry night sky background.

Sail Barbary and the Tiaki Promise

Discover how sailing aboard Barbary helps support the Tiaki Promise — a commitment to care for New Zealand’s people, place, and culture. It’s easy to be a guardian when you travel thoughtfully, sail sustainably, and show respect for Aotearoa’s natural beauty.

About

1 min read

People relaxing on the deck of an electric yacht sailing on Lake Taupō, with clear blue water and open sky.

The Benefits of Sailing

Discover the many health and wellbeing benefits of sailing. From improving physical fitness and mental sharpness to reducing stress and connecting with nature, a day on the water offers more than just beautiful views – it’s good for the soul.

About

1 min read

Family smiling on a sailboat with a child and dog, surrounded by open water under a clear blue sky.

Health and Safety

Be prepared before you board. Our safety guide covers everything from weather and boat movement to life jackets, swimming rules, and onboard behavior. Arrive 15 minutes early for a full safety briefing and bring appropriate gear for the season. Life jackets, parental supervision, and responsible alcohol use ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise for all.

Safety

1 min read

View of the side deck on Sail Barbary, showing narrow walking space and handrails for accessibility awareness.

Boat Accessibility

Planning a trip on Sail Barbary? See detailed photos and info on boarding, movement around the boat, and accessibility features to help all guests feel prepared and confident.

Safety

1 min read

Life Jackets

At Sail Barbary, your safety is always our top priority. Whether you're joining us for a relaxing sail to the Māori Rock Carvings or...

Safety

2 min read

Aerial view of Taupō’s new public green space with landscaped gardens, pathways, and surrounding buildings at sunset.

Taupo's New Lakefront Corner Development

Discover Taupō’s new Atea and revamped road layout near town. Learn how to access the shops, Boat Harbour, and cafes while enjoying the stunning new green space and lake.

Updates

1 min read

Tiffany from Sail Barbary delivering a presentation to fellow operators about sustainability initiatives, with a slideshow in the background.

Sustainable Tourism Programme Completed

Sail Barbary completes the Taupō Sustainable Tourism Programme alongside local operators. Discover how we’re making positive environmental changes and planning for a greener future in tourism.

About

1 min read

Sail Barbary’s electric sailing yacht cruising across the calm waters of Lake Taupō.

Explore Lake Taupō

Find Your Perfect Lake Taupō Cruise

From daytime adventures to unforgettable sunsets, discover the perfect way to cruise Lake Taupō.

View Our Cruises

Lake Taupō Travel Tips & Cruise Guides

15 Best Family Activities in Taupō

Why We Chose Eco Sailing on Lake Taupō?

Sail Barbary Is an Eco-Friendly Company

Sail Barbary and the Tiaki Promise

The Benefits of Sailing

Health and Safety

Boat Accessibility

Life Jackets

Taupo's New Lakefront Corner Development

Sustainable Tourism Programme Completed

Explore Lake Taupō

Find Your Perfect Lake Taupō Cruise

Bookings@sailbarbary.com

07 378 5879
0800 ECO SAIL

Berths 9 & 10, Redoubt Street,
Taupō Boat Harbour, Taupō , New Zealand

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