Is parking available at Taupō Marina?

Yes, parking is available at the marina and is free without time restrictions.

Are there toilet facilities onboard?

The Tiua catamaran includes three guest bathrooms for convenience during the trip.

Can children join this sailing adventure?

Absolutely, all ages are welcome on the trip, with special pricing for children and infants.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Trips depend on weather and lake conditions; the skipper will cancel or alter the route for safety as needed.

Can I bring my own food or drink onboard?

Food is not included, and bringing your own is discouraged; however, a fully licensed bar offers drinks and snacks.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Tiua is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.

Luxury Sailing to Māori Rock Carvings with Taupo Sailing Adventures

Lake Taupō, New Zealand’s largest freshwater body, commands attention with its vast, crystal-clear waters framed by volcanic landscapes and native forest. At its heart lies one of the region’s most extraordinary attractions: the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay, a 14-meter tall sculpted monument etched into sheer cliffs and accessible only by water. Taupo Sailing Adventures offers a refined gateway to this cultural marvel aboard the Tiua, a spacious 53-foot luxury sailing catamaran.

Departing each morning at 10am from Taupō Marina on Redoubt Street, passengers board Tiua in comfort and style. The catamaran’s stable twin-hull design ensures a smooth, quiet ride powered entirely by wind, delivering an eco-friendly journey across the shimmering lake. Whether lounging in the expansive indoor saloon or relaxing on covered and open deck areas, guests enjoy panoramic views framed by the volcanic plateau.

As Tiua glides toward the Māori Rock Carvings, the knowledgeable crew enriches the experience with stories that illuminate local Ngāti Tūwharetoa history and the carving’s modern origins. These carvings, created in the late 1970s by master carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell and his team, honor tribal ancestors and legends, linking visitors intimately to the region’s living cultural landscape.

Along the way, passengers receive complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits, with an optional swim to refresh in the lake’s pure volcanic waters if conditions allow. The cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours—long enough to absorb the serene atmosphere without rushing, making it a perfect morning retreat.

Taupo Sailing Adventures stands out for combining sustainable sailing, cultural interpretation, and luxury on one of New Zealand’s signature outdoor recreation sites. It’s a smooth, thoughtful way to step beyond hiking trails or fishing expeditions and engage with Lake Taupō’s unique blend of nature and heritage. Whether you’re a local or traveler seeking a calm yet enriching waterborne adventure, this trip presents a distinctive lens on the lake’s hidden artistry and story.