Embark on an unforgettable adventure on Lake Taupo aboard Tiua, our 53‑ft luxury sailing catamaran. Combining classic maritime charm with modern comfort, Tiua is designed to deliver a premium charter sailing experience on New Zealand’s largest freshwater lake.
Built in 1992 and extensively refurbished in 2008, Tiua combines timeless character with contemporary luxury. Step into a spacious saloon adorned with elegant New Zealand timber paneling, relax in a covered cockpit designed for all-weather sailing, and retreat to one of three well-appointed cabins. With a fully licensed bar and ample deck seating—including cozy beanbag lounges—Tiua offers an indulgent, relaxed onboard atmosphere.
Glide over crystal-clear waters to uncover the natural beauty of Taupo’s diverse landscapes. A highlight of your journey is exclusive access to the famed Maori Rock Carvings—a unique fusion of contemporary artistry and deep cultural heritage. Accompanied by local experts, learn about the history and significance of these carvings while enjoying panoramic views of the lake.
Designed with both the environment and your comfort in mind, Tiua offers an eco-friendly, all-weather sailing experience that adapts to any season. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a private charter event, or a corporate retreat, our luxury sailing charter is tailored to accommodate groups of all sizes, ensuring a seamless blend of scenic cruising, cultural exploration, and high-end hospitality.
Discover why Tiua is the premier choice for luxury sailing on Lake Taupo. From its sophisticated design and premium amenities to its unique access to iconic attractions, every detail is crafted for an unparalleled sailing experience. Book your adventure today and set sail on a journey that perfectly encapsulates the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand.
Sailing Departs: 10:00 am
Price: $72.60 per person – Child $62.08 pp
Duration: Approx 2.5 hours:
Enjoy an eco-friendly sailing experience on our crystal clear waters in pure comfort on this stylish 53ft Catamaran and discover the majestic Māori Rock Carvings, one of the most extraordinary contemporary carvings in the world.
Relax in the spacious saloon, covered cockpit and deck areas and meet our qualified, experienced and friendly crew and learn about the natural and cultural history of the lake and its hidden gems.
On board facilities include a galley, a licensed bar and three guest bathrooms.
Sailing Departs: 1:00 pm
Price: $83.12 per person – Child $72.60 pp
Duration: Approx 2.5 hours:
Indulge in an eco-friendly sailing adventure across our pristine, crystal-clear waters in ultimate comfort aboard this elegant 53ft catamaran, and discover the majestic Māori Rock Carvings—truly one of the most remarkable contemporary masterpieces in the world.
Relax in the spacious saloon, sheltered cockpit, and open deck areas while meeting our highly qualified, experienced, and friendly crew, who will share the natural and cultural history of the lake and its hidden gems.
Onboard amenities include a well-equipped galley, a licensed bar, and three guest bathrooms.
Sailing Departs: 3:30 pm
Price: $83.12 per person – Child $72.60 pp
Duration: Approx 2.5 hours:
Experience a delightful afternoon cruise on our eco-friendly 53ft catamaran as it glides over pristine, crystal-clear waters. Bathed in vibrant daylight, admire the majestic Māori Rock Carvings—one of the most extraordinary contemporary masterpieces—while the lake reveals its shimmering beauty.
Unwind in the spacious saloon, sheltered cockpit, and open deck areas as our highly qualified, experienced, and friendly crew share captivating insights into the lake’s natural and cultural history.
With onboard amenities including a well-equipped galley, a licensed bar, and three guest bathrooms, your afternoon cruise promises both adventure and ultimate comfort.
Sailing Departs: 5:00 pm
Price: $89.43 per person – Child $78.91 pp
Duration: Aprox 2.5 hours:
Experience a breathtaking sunset sail on our eco-friendly 53ft catamaran as it glides across pristine, crystal-clear waters.
As the golden hues of dusk illuminate the majestic Māori Rock Carvings—one of the most extraordinary contemporary masterpieces— you’ll be captivated by the stunning interplay of light and water.
Unwind in the spacious saloon, sheltered cockpit, and open deck areas while our highly qualified, experienced, and friendly crew share fascinating insights into the lake’s natural and cultural history.
With onboard amenities including a well-equipped galley, a licensed bar, and three guest bathrooms, your sunset sail promises both adventure and ultimate comfort.
Larry H (Magnolia, TX) ★★★★★
Great trip
“Aaron was a lovely host. Very knowledgeable and humorous which added to the trip. The weather wasn’t perfect but we had a great time.”
Written 20 March 2025
Dreamer51217980359 (Location Unknown) ★★★★★
Fantastic family voyage
“We sailed on the catamaran and were grateful for the change of ship. For our 60th family celebration, this was perfect. Plenty of space for our own lunch platter, a comfy seat for the matriarch, and room to move. The skipper and guide were brilliant, knowledgeable, and very friendly. Loved the carvings and the swim was a highlight.”
Written 17 March 2025
Jeff F (Minneapolis, MN) ★★★★★
Great time in Taupo
“Terrific catamaran ride across Lake Taupo. Staff is so courteous and friendly. Carvings are interesting. The captain sailed us to a calm area to swim.”
Written 14 March 2025
Joyce S (Location Unknown) ★★★★★
Beautiful sail on the lake
“Such a fab swim in the lake. Carvings interesting but much, much newer than I realised. Dave was very informative with loads of local knowledge.”
Written 13 March 2025
Olivia (Location Unknown) ★★★★★
Amazing time!
“We had a great trip! Our boat driver Liam and guide Aaron were great and very informative. Such a chill, fun adventure. We will be doing it again!”
Written 12 March 2025
Cruiser194 (Sydney Australia) ★★★★★
Absolutely stunning views, amazing crew, and great vibes
“This was a last minute booking and it did not disappoint. We were hoping for a relaxing day and we absolutely got it. The 2.5-hour sailing was fantastic, as we learned more about the Māori culture, rock carvings, and Lake Taupo. Taking a break to swim was also fantastic. Despite the water being cold, I was motivated to do something that scared me and jump off the top of the catamaran—starting our trip off with a bang. We highly recommend this tour to all ages and people from around the world.”
Written 4 March 2025
Gary W (Yate, UK) ★★★★★
Perfect afternoon
“Excellent trip with friendly crew that gave an informative chat about the lake, carvings, and surrounding landscape. Nice to have time to swim in the lake also, and with a bar onboard, it was a perfect afternoon.”
Written 27 February 2025
SWB (Sydney, Australia) ★★★★★
Great tour
“Booked at last minute and the weather turned in the afternoon. Had the option for refund or rebook but went anyway. Lake Taupo is stunning and always good to be on the water. The crew were great and made the experience fun despite inclement weather. The carvings are amazing and they did a great job explaining the history and details of the area. Don’t miss this tour—it’s an excellent way to relax on Lake Taupo.”
Written 25 February 2025
ED L (Kent UK) ★★★★★
Fabulous Fun
“This was sooo much fun and the guys on board were great hosts. We had a spot of bad weather, but they were excellent at warning us and moving around the rain. They helped us shuffle in and out of cover to enjoy the open air and then hide inside when the rain came. Definitely recommend taking a dip—the water was unbelievably warm despite the chilly air.”
Written 19 February 2025
Rosemary W (Queenstown) ★★★★★
Good way to see the carvings
“This trip was worth doing—the only way to see the carvings is from the sea. We did a bit of sailing to get there but had to motor back due to wind direction and time constraints, which was a shame. We were given some information about the carvings and had an opportunity for a short swim.”
Written 18 February 2025