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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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  • Boat cruises

    Venture Beyond - Chasing Waterfalls 3.5 Hour Adventurer

    Let us connect you to the hidden treasures that are the Western Bays of Lake Taupō. Towering cliffs, hidden ravines, waterfalls and sandy bays are a snapshot of what your adventure might look like with Venture Beyond. Departing Kinloch daily.

    $272 Book now
  • Water activities

    Doughboats Lake Taupo

    Hire & drive your own donut boat! Pack some drinks & nibbles, & cruise Lake Taupo while enjoying your favorite music via onboard Bluetooth speakers. Throw the anchor and jump on in.

    $40.50 - $77.50 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
  • Boat cruises

    White Striker Charters - Scenic Cruises

    Book a Scenic Cruises on Lake Taupō with White Striker Charters. Book your cruise by the hour for a customised scenic cruise on Lake Taupō.

    $275 - $1,100
  • 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
  • Boat cruises

    Taupo Sailing Adventures - Tiua - Māori Rock Carvings Sailing & Private Charters

    Join us for an unforgettable experience aboard our beautiful luxurious sailing catamaran Tiua on Lake Taupo. Explore the Māori Rock Carvings on a scheduled trip or book a private charter.

    $69 - $85 Book now
  • Boat cruises

    Taxicat Adventures - Western Bays - Chasing Waterfalls

    Love waterfalls - so do we. Come and explore the Northern end of the remote Western Bays of Lake Taupō with one of our Western Bay Chasing Waterfalls cruises.

    $135 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

    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
  • Boat cruises

    Self drive Boat hire - Stabicraft 1550 - Lakefun Explorer

    Rent a boat on beautiful Lake Taupo. Best way to explore at your own pace.

    $220 Book now

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