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Scenic cruises & water activities

Water is Taupo’s defining element, from the snow on our volcanic peaks to the steam rising from our geothermal vents. But the best way to enjoy it is to get right into or on to our lakes, rivers and hot pools.

Lake Taupo’s clean waters are refreshing but swimmable through spring, summer and autumn (and winter if you’re brave!). You can kayak, fly high above the lake on a parasail, stand-up paddleboard, hire a sailing boat, waterski, wakeboard, or windsurf. 

Lake Taupo changes through the days and seasons, offering many different types of beauty as you cruise its waters. On sunny days, it’s often smooth as glass and as blue as the sky above. When it’s overcast, it can be wreathed in mist and dark green like pounamu (Maori for jade). 

Whatever the weather, a scenic boat cruise by launch, yacht or steamboat always has plenty to see. From native water birds, beautiful bush-clad coves, the evocative Mine Bay Maori rock carvings that tell the story of the great Maori high priest Ngatoroirangi, or even just the clear, rippling water of Lake Taupo with its amazing depth and visibility.

There are also fishing charters and cruises, world-class fly fishing on the rivers, river floats and white-water rafting for all ages.

For those with a taste for adventure, a jet boat trip on the Waikato River combines thrilling action with the chance to see spectacular natural features like the Huka Falls, Aratiatia Rapids or the ethereal Tutukau Gorge up close.

And after a busy day, there’s no better way to unwind than by soaking in one of the region’s geothermally heated mineral pools or natural hot pools.

 

 

Book a scenic cruise in Taupo

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  • Fishing – Fresh Water

    Fish Taupo

    Fish Taupo aboard Stratus with Marty. Stratus is designed for fishing and cruising in comfort. All quality gear supplied. Go with the local professional who owns the boat and has your interest at heart. Price is for the whole boat, not per person.

    $125
  • Jet boating

    Hukafalls Jet - Taupo Classic Combo

    Cruise Lake Taupo to the famous Maori Rock Carvings, then jet boat to Huka Falls on the mighty Waikato Huka Falls.

    $165 Book now
  • Boat cruises

    Self Drive Boat Hire - Lakefun Express - Pontoon Boat

    Want to explore the Lake at your own leisure on your own. This is a great way to see everything on Lake Taupo without having to share your time with a stranger.

    $295 Book now
  • Jet boating

    Hukafalls Jet

    Hukafalls Jet is the only jet boat company permitted to take you to the base of the mighty Huka Falls for unique water-level views. Nothing gets you closer.

    $145 Book now
  • Fishing – Fresh Water

    Cruise Loloma Lake Taupo

    The Loloma; Lake Taupō Fishing Charter Cruise Boat. Facilities include galley, BBQ, toilet, and shower. Fishing, sightseeing, water-sports, or clay bird shooting. Fully customized options for up to 25 passengers or 6 passengers overnight.

    $20 - $260
  • Boat cruises

    Taupo Classic Combo

    Taupo Class Combo - 'must do' in Taupo. 90 minutes Scenic Lake Cruise with Chris Jolly Outdoors. 30 minutes jet boat ride with Hukafalls Jet to the base of the spectacular Huka Falls.

    $165
  • Boat cruises

    Kakariki Private Charters

    Fishing trips, scenic, stag and hens parties, corporate, birthdays or family fun Kakariki is a proven party boat. Specialising in events from 1 -8 hours. We also offer educational trips with full commentary.

    $250 - $1,000
  • Boat cruises

    Lake Taupo Cruises

    Offering scheduled daily cruises to the world famous Māori Rock Carvings with the iconic replica steamboat Ernest Kemp, or private charters aboard the luxurious Regal Flyer showcasing beautiful Lake Taupō.

    $35 - $46 Book now
  • Fishing – Fresh Water

    Taupo Boating and Fishing Charters

    Taupo Boating & Fishing Charters are great trips for every occasion. Entertain your friends, family, colleagues, and clients on the 'Great' Lake Taupo. We offer fishing and fun trips and sightseeing cruises.

    $19 Book now
  • Jet boating

    Rapids Jet

    Experience real white water jet boating. Rapids Jet is a fun, safe & exhilarating experience which takes you to the Aratiatia Rapids, through the narrowest canyon on the river to the Full James Rapids where Yogi Bear & The Hobbit scenes were filmed.

    $145 Book now

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  1. Home
  2. See & do
  3. Sightseeing tours & transport
  4. Scenic cruises & water activities