Māori Rock Carving Tiua Sunset Sail

• Duration: 2.5 - 3 hours
• Guided Tour: Gain insightful commentary from experienced skippers about the lake’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
• Māori Rock Carvings: Marvel at the stunning contemporary carvings, considered some of the most impressive in the world.
• Sunset Views: Witness the mesmerising colours of the sunset reflecting off the tranquil waters of Lake Taupo.
• Swimming Stop: Enjoy a chance to swim in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo, weather permitting.
• Tea and Coffee: Available for purchase
• Fully Licensed Bar: Great selection of wine, beers and spirits to purchase
• Snacks: Available for purchase

Tiua (pronounced tee-ua, meaning “to move with the wind”) is a stunning Fountaine Pajot Marquises 53 sailing catamaran, purpose-built for high-end charters. Launched in 1992, she spent her early years in the Caribbean — including nine years on land — before being sailed to New Zealand in 2008 for charter operations on Lake Rotoiti.

From that point on, Tiua became a familiar sight on the lake, taking guests to explore Rotorua’s hidden bays, thermal pools and cave-lined shores. In 2023, she was welcomed into the Taupō Sailing Adventures fleet, continuing her legacy on the water.

After her arrival in Aotearoa, Tiua underwent a major refit. This included new Yanmar engines and gearboxes, a redesigned coach roof, and a complete repaint. A sleek stainless-steel framework was added, lifting the mainsail sheet track to roof height — making the cockpit area safer and more open.

Inside, Tiua offers three bright double ensuite cabins and an additional cabin/workroom. The galley sits on the starboard side, with a convenient day head to port. The spacious main saloon is beautifully finished with native New Zealand timber tables and panelling, while the covered cockpit features a custom hardtop with sliding roof panels and roll-down clears — perfect for entertaining in any weather. The large cockpit table folds out to comfortably seat ten for relaxed dining on the water.

• Passenger Capacity: Maximum of 51 passengers, 35 passengers in all-weather.
• Inside Seating: 25 people
• Model: Fountaine Pajot Marquises 53 Catamaran
• Built: 1992
• Dimensions:
  • Length: 53ft (16.2m)
  • Beam: 26ft (8m)
  • Draught: 5ft (1.37m)
• Construction: Foam core fibreglass with high bridge deck
• Speed:
  • Max Speed under Engine: 7 knots
  • Max Speed Sailing: 10 knots
• Health & Safety: Fully equipped with the latest health and safety standards to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.

• Camera: To capture the stunning views and memorable moments throughout the tour.
• Swimsuit and Towel: For those who wish to take a dip in the lake.
• Sunblock: Essential for sun protection during the tour.
• Warm Clothing: Layered clothing is recommended to stay comfortable as the temperature can vary.
• Soft Shoes: Comfortable footwear is recommended; hard-soled shoes and high heels are not permitted.

Restrictions:

• Footwear: No hard-soled shoes or high heels allowed for safety reasons.

We Provide:

• Beanbags for outside seating: Enjoy pizza and one glass of beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic beverage.
• Weather Gear: Wet weather clothing and blankets to keep you warm and dry in case of inclement weather
• Additional Drinks: Available for purchase.

• Adult: 15 years +
• Children: 3-14 years
• Infant: 2 years and under

• More than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
• Within 24 hours before departure: No refund

Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*