Sailing Tours
History and Māori Culture
Cruises
Family-friendly Tours
Half-Day Tours
- Duration: 2.5 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.
- Complimentary Drink: Savour one glass of beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic beverage of your choice.
- Pizza: Enjoy a delicious pizza freshly prepared and served during the tour.
- Sailing Participation: Engage in the sailing experience by helping to hoist the sails and take a turn steering the boat.
- Relaxing Ambiance: Snuggle under cosy blankets provided onboard and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Music & Refreshments: Listen to music via the high-quality sound system and make use of the onboard fridge and freezer for refreshments.
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 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:
- Complimentary Food & Drink: Enjoy pizza and 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
- 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.*
