Eco Sunset Sailing Cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings
Adult: NZ$69
Child: NZ$40
Departure Times:
5.00pm (from September to April)
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 the magic of Lake Taupō at golden hour aboard Sail Barbary’s unforgettable Sunset Cruise. This unique Eco Cruise Taupō combines spectacular scenery, peaceful sailing, and sustainable travel practices, making it one of the most memorable Sunset & Couples Experiences in the region. As New Zealand’s first and only commercial electric sailing yacht, Sail Barbary offers a truly distinctive Electric Sailing Experience, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the lake in near silence while minimising environmental impact.
Perfect for couples, families, visitors, and locals alike, this relaxing evening cruise showcases the stunning colours of sunset reflected across the water, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and volcanic landscape. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a Date Night Taupō, or simply looking for unique Couples Activities Taupō, Sail Barbary delivers an authentic and environmentally responsible way to experience the lake.
As a leader in Sustainable Tourism Taupō, Sail Barbary combines luxury, relaxation, and environmental stewardship, creating one of the region’s premier Eco Friendly Activities Taupō.
*Departure times vary throughout the year to align with seasonal sunset conditions. Guests should check the current sailing schedule when booking.
What’s Included
Scenic sunset cruise to the Māori Rock Carvings aboard New Zealand's first commercial electric yacht
Relaxing Lake Taupō sailing experience during the most beautiful time of day
Opportunity to help hoist the sails or take the helm under crew guidance
Informative commentary about Lake Taupō, its history and surrounding landscape
Complimentary Sail Barbary postcard and a wine, beer or soft drink
Warm ponchos available if required
BYO food and beverages welcome onboard
Hot and cold drinks available for purchase
Quiet, emissions-free cruising powered by wind and electric propulsion
Stunning sunset photo opportunities across Lake Taupō
Why Choose Sail Barbary?
Visit the World-Famous Māori Rock Carvings Aboard New Zealand's First & Taupō Only Commercial Electric Sailing Yacht
The Ultimate Sunset Sailing Experience
Hands-On Authentic Sailing Experience
A Must-Do Lake Taupō Experience
New Zealand’s Only Commercial Electric Yacht
A Premium Eco Tourism Experience
Luxury Sailing Taupō Without the Crowds
Qualmark Gold & Sustainability Focus
Lake Taupō Cruise FAQs
The Sunset Cruise lets you see Lake Taupō as the afternoon light turns golden and the surrounding landscape changes towards dusk. It also includes a complimentary wine, beer or soft drink, making it a lovely choice for date nights, celebrations or an evening on the lake with friends and family.
You’ll cruise across Lake Taupō aboard Sail Barbary, New Zealand’s only commercial electric sailing yacht. Along the way, you can soak up views of the lake, surrounding bays, mountains and volcanic landscape while your local crew shares stories about the area.
The Sunset Cruise operates seasonally from September to April and generally departs at 5.00pm. Departure times may vary to suit seasonal sunset conditions, so check the current time when booking. Cruises leave from Berths 9 and 10 at Taupō Boat Harbour. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early.
The cruise is scheduled to make the most of the evening light, but the colour and visibility of the sunset will depend on the weather and cloud conditions. Every evening on Lake Taupō is different, and the cruise still offers beautiful lake and mountain views if the sunset is less visible.
Your cruise includes one complimentary wine, beer or soft drink. You’re also welcome to bring your own food and beverages, and additional hot and cold drinks are available to purchase aboard.
Evenings on Lake Taupō can become cool, so wear comfortable layers and flat, non-slip shoes. Bring a warm jacket, your camera or phone and any food you’d like to enjoy aboard. Pack swimwear and a towel if you’re hoping to swim. Warm ponchos are available if needed.
Accessibility depends 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.
Yes. The Sunset Cruise is family-friendly, and children can enjoy the changing evening views, Māori Rock Carvings and authentic sailing. Children must remain under adult supervision, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
No sailing experience is needed. When conditions allow, you may be invited to help hoist the sails or take the helm under the crew’s guidance. Getting involved is completely optional, so you’re equally welcome to sit back and soak up the evening views.
The skipper will assess the weather and lake conditions before every departure. If it isn’t safe to operate the scheduled cruise, the team may offer an alternative vessel or date. If a suitable alternative cannot be arranged, you’ll receive a refund in accordance with the booking terms.