Cruises
History and Māori Culture
Half-Day Tours
The 90-minute cruise passes sheltered bays and volcanic landscapes, with views towards the mountains of Tongariro National Park when conditions are clear. The crew provides live commentary about the carvings, local history and the lake's geology. Depending on the departure and vessel, passengers can enjoy indoor seating or views from the outdoor deck.
What's included in the Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise?
- 90-minute scenic cruise on Lake Taupō
- Views of the Ngātoroirangi Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay
- Live commentary about the carvings, local history and volcanic landscape
- Indoor and outdoor seating aboard Cruise Cat, when operating
- Complimentary tea, coffee and a freshly baked muffin on selected daytime departures
- Brief trout fishing demonstration on the 1pm departure, subject to conditions
The cruise is suitable for families, couples and visitors looking for a short sightseeing activity in Taupō.
The cruise welcomes adults, children and families. Children under 16 must be accompanied and supervised by a responsible adult aged 18 or over.
The main Cruise Cat vessel accommodates wheelchairs and prams, although there is no accessible toilet onboard. Some departures may operate aboard the smaller Supercat, which is not wheelchair accessible.
Travellers using wheelchairs or requiring mobility assistance should contact Go New Zealand before booking so the vessel and boarding arrangements can be confirmed.
Cruises operate in most weather conditions, but the skipper may cancel or change a departure when conditions are unsuitable for safe operation.
- Adult: 18 years +
- Senior: 65 years +
- Children: 4-16 years
- Infant: 0-3 years
- More than 30 days before travel: Full Refund**
- 48 hours to 30 days before: 10% cancellation fee applies**
- Within 48 hours before/no show: No refund
Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.
