Classical Sailing - Māori Rock Carvings -Taupo Sailing Adventures

Overview

Available languages

English

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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 in under some blankets.

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

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Sailing trips are subject to minimum numbers, lake and weather conditions.

Departs from Taupo Marina. (Redoubt St), Check-in at Berth # 16/17, 30 minutes before scheduled departure. Check-in closes 15 minutes before scheduled departure. Boarding time 10 minutes before scheduled departure

For the 9.30am trip customers can arrive 10-15min before departure for check-in. An earlier arrival is not required. However they need to be there before the departure time at 9.30am!

People failing to show up for check in will not be refunded.

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 Maori Rock Carvings, this decision is made at the discretion of the skipper for the health and safety of all on board the vessel

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 regulations.

Cancellation Policy

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

What‘s Included

Additional drinks can be purchased on board

Blankets

9.30am: complimentary hot drink & biscuit.

Sunset Cruise (times vary throughout the year): 1 glass of beer, wine or non-alcoholic drinks.

3.30pm: complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink.

12.30pm: complimentary tea, coffee or refreshing soft drink.

Live commentary on board

BYO

Longest swim stop out of any company on the lake (weather dependent)

Accommodation pickup and drop-off

Food

What To Expect

Lake Taupo

Experience the beauty of a scenic sailing tour to the Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world. Escape from hectic life for a while and enjoy the breathtaking views around. 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 and enjoy the wide selection of drinks. Take a dip and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the largest freshwater lake in Australasia (weather dependent). Enjoy free pizza and beverages on some departures - or purchase light refreshments on-board. You are also able to bring your own food and drinks with you, should you wish. Afterwards, return to the marina where you tour concludes.

2 hours • Admission Not Applicable

Maori Rock Carvings

15 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

Options

9.30am Maori Rock Carvings

Morning Escape

3.30pm Maori Rock Carvings

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
1 drink

Sunset, Maori Rock Carvings

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
1 drink: 1 glass of beer, wine or non alcoholic drinks. Drinks are also available for purchase on board
Sunset Heaven

12.30pm Maori Rock Carvings

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
1 Drink
Taste of Taupo

Reviews

4.84

119 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

111

Pictures lie
bobbi l,
Nov 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
1.00
The trip was set to cancel because of weather. How ever, my disappointment was arriving and not seeing a sloop for my sailing adventure as was pictures, but a catamaran. I specifically chose this because of a sloop.
Beautiful Lake Taupō
Michelle R,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
We scheduled this last minute and are so glad we did. It was a beautiful morning to be out on the lake and the boat and the crew were awesome. We were very glad we did this.
A fun few hours not to be missed.
P6109HPleonc,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
What a great afternoon out on Lake Taupo! We were lucky with having great weather & a favourable wind for sailing back. The carvings were interesting & the crew told us the history & other stories in a relaxed way. They were always open to questions & conversations about the area. We did the usual North Island attractions, but this day was a stand out for good value, fun & relaxation.
Wonderful Kindred Spirit cruise
X9156PWjulieh,
Nov 6, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The Kindred catamaran was wonderful. We sat in bean bags over the water, very tranquil. The crew were informative and accommodating. The scenery was incredible and the carvings were worth seeing. I would highly recommend this company and cruise to anyone
Quick peaceful sail
Sonia M,
Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Well worth the price! We had the best time enjoying the gorgeous day on the lake! The carvings were beautiful and to learn the history behind them was amazing. We got a drink and pizza with our tour which was an added bonus. Erin and the Captain were amazing and so kind throughout the whole journey!
An amazing trip
Emma S,
Oct 8, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
An amazing trip out to the rock carvings. Not crowded like some of the other tours, meaning we had space to move around.
Great relaxed experience
S3690UMkarens,
Apr 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Had a great time on this tour. Not packed on boat as other tours appear to be. Friendly staff who are knowledgeable about Taupo history. Would recommend.
Great experience, friendly crew, beautiful boat.
Catherine C,
Apr 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00
Lovely boat, great guide, space to enjoy the lake, and the carvings. The sailing boat was so smooth, even on a windy day!
Disappointing
Phoebeontour,
Mar 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
1.00
So disappointing! Cancelled one hour before departure apparently due to high winds even though every other boat/yacht still operating. Including their own catamaran. Yacht nowhere to be seen. Offered us later on their catamaran or next day but none of these suited. No other yacht sailing available at short notice. Heard from locals problems with crew and trying to sell business. Ruined our only full day in Taupo. Would not recommend.
Worth doing
Lauren H,
Mar 22, 2025
- Review from Viator
3.00
The skipper and crewmate were both great and shared a lot of great information. Had the water been came so we didn't get switch from the sailboat to the catamaran, I am sure I would have given it a 4 or 5 start rating. In either case this was well query the money.