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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

    Sail Barbary Evening and Sunset Cruise to the Carvings

    Explore Lake Taupō on an eco-friendly electric sailboat with Sail Barbary. This one-of-a-kind experience is 100% emissions-free, noise-free, and sustainable, ensuring that your journey leaves no trace on the environment.

    $65 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
  • 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

    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

    Top Cat Charters

    Charter a Private Cruise out on Lake Taupo with Top Cat Charters. Top Cat Charters offer a range of cruise options, which can include sightseeing out to the Maori Rock Carvings, Western Bays or Trout Fishing or swimming, paddle boarding and more.

    $109 - $139 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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