Evening Eco Sailing Adventure to Māori Rock Carvings Lake Taupō
4.8 / 5 · 17 traveler reviews
Discover the stunning Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō aboard a 100% electric yacht. This eco-friendly cruise offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural storytelling, perfect for all types of travelers. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere where you can bring your own food and drinks while soaking up the sun, swimming, or even taking the helm. Engage with knowledgeable crew members as they share tales of Taupō’s volcanic landscape and Māori heritage, ensuring a memorable experience. Whether you're seeking a scenic day trip or a sunset cocktail cruise, Sail Barbary provides an unforgettable connection to nature and culture. Explore the iconic 14-meter Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings, accessible only by water Enjoy a relaxed cruise with BYO food and drinks, plus complimentary drinks on evening sails Engage in cultural storytelling from the enthusiastic crew about local legends and history Experience sustainable sailing on a 100% electric yacht, perfect for eco-conscious travelers
Your experience
Stop 1
Artist Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell created the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings in the late 1970s. The images were carved by hand into the cliffs over Lake Taupo using traditional Maori techniques. Matahi and a team of four assistants completed the work over four summers. The centerpiece of the Mine Bay Maori Rock Carvings depicts the tattooed face of Ngatoroirangi, the legendary navigator who guided the Maori tribes of Tūwharetoa and Te Arawa to the Taupo region more than a thousand years ago. Additional Celtic sculptures show other local Maori tupuna (ancestors) and kaitiaki (guardians).
Stop 2
The more than 33-foot (10-meter) tall artwork can only be viewed from the water, so the best way to visit is by boat from nearby Taupo.
Stop 3
The crew members are more than just sailors. They’re local storytellers, conservationists, and passionate advocates for Lake Taupō. Whether you’re visiting the Māori Rock Carvings, learning how to trim a sail, or just relaxing on deck, the crew is there to guide, inform, and make your experience unforgettable.
What’s included
- Knowledge and Friendly Skippers
- Plenty of free parking
- Ponchos and Towels
- Free drink and Postcard
- On-board restrooms
Not included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Snacks
- Private transportation
Meeting and pickup
Meet your skipper at Berths 9&10 Taupo Boat Harbour, 3330 Please arrive 15 minutes prior to booking time to ensure plenty of time to board the boat. There is ample free parking in the harbour
Before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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