Sail Barbary to Maori Rock Carvings

North Island

Sail Barbary - Eco Sailing To The Maori Rock Carvings

from

NZ$55

per adult

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Sail Barbary yacht floating beside the Māori Rock Carvings in Taupō’s Mine Bay

Experiences

Sailing Tours

Family-friendly Tours

History and Māori Culture

Half-Day Tours

North Island

Start: Taupo

Location: Taupō

Duration: 150 minutes

Details

Explore Lake Taupō’s Calm Waters and Rich Culture

Glide across the calm blue waters of Lake Taupō aboard the eco-friendly Sail Barbary yacht, powered entirely by electricity for a quiet and sustainable experience. With no engine noise or diesel fumes, every moment on the lake feels serene and unspoiled. As you journey towards the Māori Rock Carvings, the natural beauty and cultural depth of this region unfold before your eyes.

Created in the late 1970s, the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay stand as a tribute to the artistry and traditions of Ngāti Tūwharetoa. The intricate designs and stories carved into the cliffs capture both the spirit and history of Aotearoa. From the water, these carvings appear larger than life, offering a truly memorable perspective on New Zealand’s indigenous culture.

Sailing boat on Lake Taupō with snow-capped Mount Ruapehu in the background

White sailboat on the deep blue waters of Lake Taupō with mountains behind

Young woman smiling while wearing a captain’s hat on Sail Barbary on Lake Taupō

Older couple smiling while seated on Sail Barbary with Lake Taupō in the background

Sail Barbary yacht sailing toward Māori Carvings with kayaks nearby on Lake Taupō

Sail Barbary boat gliding through calm bays on Lake Taupō under soft skies

Sail Barbary anchored at Mine Bay in front of the Māori Rock Carvings on Lake Taupō

Electric sailboat cruising Lake Taupō with passengers enjoying the sunshine

Rear view of Sail Barbary boat with Mount Tongariro and Ruapehu in the distance

Sail Barbary gliding under full sail on Lake Taupō with snowy mountains in the distance

Detailed carvings of faces and a lizard at Mine Bay on Lake Taupō

Group of people jumping off Sail Barbary into Lake Taupō for a swim

Five people jumping off Sail Barbary into Lake Taupō for a refreshing swim

Swimmers enjoying the water in front of the Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay with Sail Barbary

Set Sail on an Eco-Friendly Taupō Adventure

Whether you prefer to unwind under the sun or lend a hand hoisting the sails, every guest can tailor the cruise to their own pace. The crew of Sail Barbary welcomes you to steer, sit back, or simply sip a complimentary drink while soaking up the views. With daily departures, it’s easy to find the perfect time for your adventure on Lake Taupō.

From volcanic landscapes to hidden coves, every turn of the yacht reveals a new sight worth capturing. This award-winning experience blends sustainability with exploration, offering a journey that feels both peaceful and invigorating. It’s an ideal way to connect with nature, culture, and the timeless beauty of New Zealand’s largest lake.

INCLUSIONS

Eco-friendly sailing experience aboard New Zealand’s only commercial electric yacht.
Guided commentary on the cultural, historical, and geological significance of Lake Taupō and the Māori Rock Carvings.
Close-up viewing of the 14-metre Māori Rock Carvings at Mine Bay.
Complimentary drink or the option to BYO (Bring Your Own) food and beverages.
Warm ponchos provided for cooler weather.
Opportunities to participate by steering the yacht or hoisting the sails, or simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Explore hidden bays and volcanic landscapes with unique photo opportunities.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Alternative Boat Policy: Guests may be transferred to another vessel in adverse weather, with no changes to the route or inclusions.
Swimming Option: Guests are encouraged to bring swimwear and towels if they wish to swim during the tour.
Conditions: Tours are subject to lake and weather conditions as well as minimum passenger numbers.