Eco Sailing Cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings
Adult: NZ$59
Child: NZ$35
Departure Times:
10.30am and 2.00pm
Guests are recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure.
Duration:
150 Minutes (approx.)
Departure Location:
Berths 9 & 10, Taupō Boat Harbour, Redoubt Street, Taupō. Guests are requested to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure.
Overview:
Experience one of the most unique Eco Tourism attractions in New Zealand aboard Sail Barbary, Taupō’s iconic electric yacht. This unforgettable Eco Cruise Taupō journey takes guests across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupō Sailing to the spectacular Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay – a must-see cultural landmark accessible only by water. Sail Barbary is New Zealand’s first and only commercially operated electric sailing yacht, offering a truly authentic and environmentally conscious way to explore the lake.
As a leader in Sustainable Tourism Taupō and Green Tourism New Zealand, Sail Barbary combines cultural storytelling, volcanic landscape commentary, and hands-on sailing opportunities with a commitment to Carbon Conscious Tourism. Guests can relax on deck, take the helm, help hoist the sails, swim in the lake, or simply enjoy the peaceful silence of an Electric Sailing Experience free from diesel fumes and engine noise.
What’s Included
Scenic Sailing Experience Taupō aboard New Zealand’s first commercial electric yacht
Return cruise to the world-famous Māori Rock Carvings
Informative commentary on Māori history, local culture, volcanic geology, and lake ecology
Opportunity to swim in Lake Taupō (weather permitting)
Chance to participate in sailing activities such as steering the yacht or helping raise the sails
Complimentary Sail Barbary postcard
Warm ponchos available when required
BYO food and beverages welcome
Hot and cold drinks available onboard
Quiet, emissions-free cruising experience aboard an Electric Yacht New Zealand
Why Choose Sail Barbary?
Visit the World-Famous Māori Rock Carvings Aboard New Zealand's First & Taupō Only Commercial Electric Sailing Yacht
A Must-Do Lake Taupō Sailing Experience
New Zealand’s Only Commercial Electric Yacht
Eco-Friendly Lake Taupō Sailing Adventure
Up-Close Access to the Māori Rock Carvings
Hands-On Authentic Sailing Experience
Luxury Sailing Taupō Without the Crowds
Qualmark Gold & Sustainability Focus
Lake Taupō Cruise FAQs
Enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour journey from Taupō Boat Harbour across Tapuaeharuru Bay, passing Acacia Bay and Jerusalem Bay before cruising right up to the Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings. Along the way, your local crew will share stories about the lake, its volcanic landscape and surrounding bays. During summer, there may also be an opportunity to stop for a swim when weather and lake conditions allow. You can help hoist the sails, take the helm or simply soak up the views aboard New Zealand’s only commercial electric sailing yacht.
We cruise right alongside the 14-metre-high Māori Rock Carvings, giving you an excellent view from the water and plenty of opportunities to take photos. Your local crew will also share more about the carvings and their significance.
The cruise takes approximately 150 minutes, or 2.5 hours. Daytime departures are usually available at 10.30am and 2.00pm.
Your local crew will share stories about Lake Taupō, the surrounding bays, the region’s volcanic landscape and the cultural significance of the Māori Rock Carvings. You’ll also hear about Sail Barbary’s history and its journey to becoming New Zealand’s only commercial electric sailing yacht.
Sail Barbary is New Zealand’s only commercial electric sailing yacht. Combining wind power with electric propulsion means you can enjoy a quieter cruise with no diesel fumes and less impact on the environment.
Yes. The daytime cruise is a family-friendly way to explore Lake Taupō and see the Māori Rock Carvings. Children can enjoy the scenery, learn about the lake and, when conditions allow, get involved with sailing activities under the crew’s guidance.
When the weather and lake conditions are suitable, there may be an opportunity to stop for a swim. Guests can also help hoist the sails or take the helm. Participation is completely optional, so you’re equally welcome to sit back and soak up the views.
Wear comfortable layers and flat, non-slip shoes, as Lake Taupō conditions can change quickly. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and your camera or phone. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and drinks, although hot and cold beverages are available to purchase aboard. During summer, pack swimwear and a towel if you’d like to swim. Warm ponchos are available when needed.
Accessibility can depend on each guest’s individual mobility requirements. If you or someone in your group may need assistance boarding or moving around the yacht, please contact the Sail Barbary team before booking. They can explain the boarding process and help determine whether the cruise will be suitable for your needs.
The Māori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Cruise departs from Berths 9 and 10 at Taupō Boat Harbour on Redoubt Street. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure so you have time to check in and board.