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Maori Rock Carvings Eco Sailing Taupo

4.8
697 reviews

Available languages

English

Overview

Our electric yacht is 100% sustainable, emissions and noise free, making it climate safe, and Lake Taupo’s best sailing experience.

We have been sailing to the iconic Maori Rock Carvings since 1982!

This all-year-round activity offers relaxation, fun and adventure on the water, the Kiwi way. Get right up close to this culturally significant 46 foot (14m) high rock art.

Excellent, amusing and current commentary on lake, the volcanics and the carvings. Free refreshments including tea, coffee, hot chocolate and mulled wine (winter only). We are licenced but you are welcome to bring your own. BYO

Swimming is encouraged.

Sail Barbary is the only boat in Taupo rated 'Qualmark Gold' by Tourism NZ under the 'sustainable business' category.

Additional Info

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

What to Bring: Dress casual, comfortable and warm (layered clothes work best), windproof/showerproof jacket, swimwear and towel (during summer), sunglasses, hat and don’t forget your camera!

Please note: You are welcome to bring your own prepared food and beverages. NZ law requires adults to be R18 and over to drink alcohol.

All departures are subject to demand, minimum numbers, lake and weather conditions. We reserve the right to transfer customers to an alternative boat should weather conditions allow it. This will not alter the tour route or inclusions.

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Private transportation

GST (Goods and Services Tax) included

Local guide providing commentary on the lake, the carvings and the volcanoes

Evening cruises include a glass of wine/beer/soft drink

Swimming is encouraged

All cruises include a complimentary beverage and a Sail Barbary postcard

Additional food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Gratuities

Options

Sail at 10:30am

2.5 Hour sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings. All cruises include a complimentary beverage and a Sail Barbary Postcard

Sail at 2:00pm

2.5 Hour sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings. All cruises include a complimentary hot beverage and a Sail Barbary Postcard

Sail at 5:00pm

2.5 Hour evening sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings. Includes glass of wine/beer/soft drink & a Sail Barbary Postcard. Departs 5.00pm
Free drink.

Sunset Sail at 7:30pm

2.5 Hour sunset cruise to the Maori Rock Carvings. Only for a short time in high summer.
Free Drink: Includes glass of wine/beer/cider or soft drink

Operated by Sail Barbary

Reviews

4.8

697 reviews

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  • Relax and enjoy

    Lorens P,Dec 7, 2024

    5.0

    Chris is a great guy with a huge love for sailing. The carvings are amazing and the relaxing trip on the lake was very welcome. Make sure to bring sunscreen though!

  • Fabulous afternoon on the water.

    David T,Dec 1, 2024

    4.0

    This trip is a super relaxing and cost effective way to see the beautiful rock carvings on Lake Taupo. Chris is a very engaging captain and host, hugely knowledgeable and passionate (about sailing as much as the lake and Māori culture). If it’s sunny in Taupo, this is a must do.

  • Maori carvings memorable due to Guide Chris

    Claude B,Nov 24, 2024

    5.0

    The guide Chris was efficient and fun. The journey was well organized even though it was raining, but they were prepared for bad weather and so we still had a nice experience out on Lake Taupo. We were lucky to stay dry and it wasn‘t raining while we were admiring the Maori carvings out on lake Taupo. It is a touristic attraction, but barbary sail made it into a pleasant time out for everybody. We felt safe all the way through and there was nothing to complain about. I would definetly recommend this trip to ither people.

  • Super sailing experience

    Lee A,Nov 4, 2024

    5.0

    Super relaxed way to see the carvings with knowledgeable and fun commentary from Captain Pete. Highly recommend grabbing a bean bag for a comfortable seat and the warm weather proof poncho was a bonus!

  • Great trip. Definitely worth it.

    Robyn B,Oct 20, 2024

    5.0

    Fabulous trip. Professionally run with entertaining and knowledgeable skipper Chris. Ran to time and the complementary glass of wine was really nice.

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