Search icon

North Island

Start: Taupo Marina
Location: Taupō
Duration: 3:30pm

Māori Rock Carving Kindred Spirit: Taupō Afternoon Sailing

Step aboard Kindred Spirit for an unforgettable afternoon sail across the sparkling waters of Lake Taupō. Journey to the incredible Māori Rock Carvings, a striking example of contemporary Māori art set against the dramatic cliffs of the lake. As you glide across the water, your knowledgeable skippers share stories about the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

Choose to join in the sailing by hoisting the sails or taking the wheel, or simply sit back and relax under a cosy blanket. A complimentary drink is included, with more refreshments available to purchase onboard. Weather permitting, you’ll even have the chance to swim in Australasia’s largest freshwater lake before heading back to the marina.

  • Departs: 3:30pm
  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • A complimentary glass of beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic drink
  • Additional drinks available for purchase
  • Wet weather gear and blankets for your comfort
  • A camera to capture the stunning views
  • A swimsuit and towel if you’d like to take a dip
  • Sunblock for protection from the NZ sun
  • Warm clothing for cooler moments
  • Soft-soled shoes (no hard soles or high heels)

Join us for an unforgettable sailing experience on the pristine waters of Lake Taupō—book your adventure today!

AGE INFORMATION

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

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

  • 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.*

Kindred Spirit was crafted in 1976 by Alan Orams in Whangārei, built to an L. Francis Herreshoff design. With a cutter-rigged sloop and a full keel, she boasts a shallower draft and a generous beam, offering both stability and space.

Originally built for Alan’s friend, John Anderson Oldfield, the boat’s story continued as she passed through loving hands. One family lived aboard for a decade, followed by a couple who called her home for 15 years.

In 2019, Dave and Jess discovered Kindred Spirit in Tauranga and brought her to Taupō. Over seven months, they completely restored her — rewiring, replumbing, and repainting — ready to set sail again by January 2020.

  • Passenger Capacity: Maximum of 20 passengers, with seating available for up to 24 on deck.
  • Under Deck Lounge: Comfortable seating for up to 12 people in the lounge area below deck.
  • Speed and Efficiency: Rapid access to the rock carvings, allowing for more time to swim and relax.
  • Boat Name: Kindred Spirit
  • Dimensions:
    • Length on Deck: 47ft (14.3m)
    • Length on Waterline: 38’6ft (11.7m)
    • Beam: 12’6ft (3.8m)
    • Draught (Lightship): 5’8ft (1.76m)
  • Speed:
    • Max Speed under Engine: 7 knots
    • Max Speed Sailing: 8-9 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 protection from the sun 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:

  • Complimentary Drink: Enjoy one glass of complimentary beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic beverage.
  • Additional Drinks: Available for purchase on all tours.
  • Weather Gear: Wet weather clothing and blankets to keep you warm and dry in case of inclement weather
  • Adult: 15 years +
  • Children: 3-14 years
  • Infant: 2 years and under

Sign up to our newsletter for special deals & exciting news.