Step aboard and join us for a sail on New Zealand's only commercially operated electric yacht–zero emissions, no noise or fumes
As we silently cruise out to the carvings on crystal clear water you will be able to view the spectacular scenery from the comfort of your seat.
Our experienced skippers will inform you about the ecological, historical, spiritual and cultural significance of the area as you sail out to the 14-metre high Maori Rock Carvings in Mine Bay. These carvings are only accessible by water. Sail barbary will take you right up close for the perfect photo of Ngatororangi carved into the rock face.
On the trip home, you can jump into the deep blue freshwater lake for a swim or your captain will gladly show you the ropes and you can help hoist the sails or even take a turn at the wheel!
To top it all off, we are licensed or you can BYO (Bring Your Own) food and beverages. Things really couldn’t get more Kiwi.
Reduce your travel miles and make the ethical choice to experience eco-travel at its best. We're equipped for all conditions so you can enjoy sailing at its best. Sail Barbary - We don’t promise the best cruise on the lake, we deliver it!
Departures:
10.30am: Day Cruise - 2.5 hours includes free tea, coffee, hot chocolate, discount vouchers and a postcard
2.00pm: Day Cruise - 2.5 hours includes free tea, coffee, hot chocolate, discount vouchers and a postcard
5.00pm: Evening Cruise - 2.5 hours includes free tea, coffee, hot chocolate, free wine or beer, discount vouchers and a postcard
7.30pm: Sunset Cruise - BYO or bar. All the above inclusions plus music from your playlist. Summer only.
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
A Big thank you to Sail Barbary for a fabulous outing yesterday! What a great way to end our family gathering with a perfect morning on the lake. The weather and the carvings were stunning - and our skipper Lloyd was full of local knowledge and made it a fun experience for everyone. Will definitely return with more visitors!
Its more private smaller group setting which i love. Originally meant to go on a sailing boat but didnt get to because of the westher forecast. Our guide operator was friendly and informative and gave us lots of stories. Good chats along the way and get to even have a dip in the lake! Great day overall
Fantastic cruise on lake Taupo. Over 2 1/2 hours on the water cruising under sail. Peaceful and beautiful. Carvings amazing, and you get to swim off the boat while looking at them.
Lovely relaxing experience. Great Skippet who provided lots of interesting information as appropriate. So quiet and peaceful because of the electric motor and sail combination. Intriguing rock carving a bonus.
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Jude Elliot from New Zealand wrote on 19 March 2026
Amazing trip
I have done this trip twice - once in mid winter on a bluebird day and recently during summer on another gorgeous day! Both times it was a spectacular experience & a great way to see the coastline & Maori carvings ... so lovely to be able to take a bottle of bubbly and nibbles to share as we sailed peacefully on the Lake with stunning views - I would highly recommend this trip !!