Kinloch’s Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of New Zealand’s volcanic landscapes. Combining a scenic boat ride with the thrill of paddleboarding, this 3.5-hour adventure allows visitors to discover hidden coves, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic rock formations. Led by knowledgeable skippers, the tour promises personalized attention and insights into the region’s geology and culture. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or an adrenaline-filled experience, this excursion promises to create unforgettable memories amidst the stunning backdrop of Lake Taupo.
This experience made our list of the 2 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Kinloch.
Key Points
- A 3.5-hour adventure on Lake Taupo, featuring a 1.5-hour scenic catamaran cruise with opportunities for swimming, paddleboarding, and a picnic on a secluded beach.
- The cruise showcases volcanic rock formations, cascading waterfalls, and allows for wildlife spotting, with the skipper providing storytelling on the region’s geological and cultural history.
- Participants can enjoy a one-hour break for light refreshments, where the skipper shares local knowledge and anecdotes, and they can recharge and reflect on the scenic wonders.
- The tour offers a personalized experience, catering to both adventurous and relaxing preferences, with a variety of activities to create an unforgettable experience.
- The tour is highly rated by customers, who praise the unspoiled views, volcanic formations, and hidden ravines, as well as the exceptional value for the overall experience.
Tour Overview
The Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding offers a 3.5-hour adventure, priced from €142.18 per person, and limited to a group size of 6 participants.
The tour is conducted in English, starting from Taxicat Adventures in Kinloch, where visitors should look for the big yellow Taxicat flag to find the meeting point.
This catamaran cruise promises scenic views, with a 1.5-hour boat ride, a 1-hour photo stop and swimming session, and a 1-hour coffee and tea break.
Guests can also opt for seasonal activities like swimming and paddleboarding, as well as a picnic on a secluded beach.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Kinloch
Boat Cruise
During the 1.5-hour boat cruise, guests can admire the scenic vistas of the Western Bays of Lake Taupo, including volcanic rock formations and cascading waterfalls.
The skipper provides insightful storytelling, sharing the geological and cultural history of the region. Passengers may spot wildlife like waterfowl and native birds along the shoreline.
The catamaran glides smoothly across the lake, offering a peaceful and tranquil experience.
Key highlights of the boat cruise include:
-
Discovering hidden ravines and inlets
-
Short bush walks in the native forest
-
Photo stops at picturesque locations
-
Opportunities for swimming (weather permitting)
-
Breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and volcanoes.
Photo Stop and Swimming
After the leisurely boat cruise, the tour moves to a hidden location on the lake, where guests can spend an hour swimming, taking photos, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
The remote cove offers a chance to disconnect from the outside world and take in the natural beauty of Lake Taupo. Guests can take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters, capture stunning photos of the volcanic rock formations, and simply bask in the serenity of the secluded spot.
This photo stop and swimming session allows participants to fully appreciate the untamed essence of the region and create lasting memories of their time on the lake.
Coffee and Tea
Following the photo stop and swimming session, the tour participants gather for a leisurely one-hour coffee and tea break. During this time, they can refuel with light refreshments while reflecting on the scenic wonders they’ve witnessed so far.
The skipper provides insightful commentary, sharing local knowledge and anecdotes that enhance the participants’ understanding and appreciation of the region.
The coffee and tea break offers a chance to:
-
Recharge and rejuvenate
-
Engage in casual conversation with the group
-
Learn more about the local history and culture
-
Admire the breathtaking views of Lake Taupo
-
Plan the next leg of the adventure-filled tour.
Optional Activities
Participants can also enjoy a variety of optional activities during the cruise, including swimming and seasonal paddleboarding.
The crystal-clear waters of Lake Taupo provide a refreshing opportunity to take a dip and cool off. For the more adventurous, paddleboarding is available seasonally, allowing guests to glide across the lake’s calm surface.
Those who prefer to relax can choose to bring their own picnic and enjoy a leisurely meal on a secluded beach.
The tour also includes a short bush walk, giving participants a chance to explore the native forest and take in the stunning natural surroundings.
With these optional activities, the tour offers something for all to create an unforgettable experience.
Highlights and Experiences
The Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise offers a captivating exploration of the western bays, where visitors can marvel at the volcanic rock formations and cascading waterfalls that dot the shoreline.
The skipper’s insightful storytelling brings the area’s rich history and natural wonders to life.
Highlights of the experience include:
-
Discovering hidden ravines and inlets
-
Enjoying a short bush walk through native forest
-
Spotting local wildlife in their natural habitat
-
Taking in the panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills
-
Experiencing the tranquility and seclusion of the region’s lesser-known corners
This personalized tour provides an opportunity to uncover the unspoiled side of Lake Taupo, leaving visitors with lasting memories of its natural beauty.
Booking and Cancellation
Reserving this Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise is easy, as it requires no upfront payment – visitors can simply reserve their spot and pay later. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travelers.
| What’s Included | What’s Not |
|---|---|
| Tour guide’s interpretation | Alcoholic beverages |
| Light refreshments | Picnic (can be upgraded) |
| Swimming and paddleboarding | Transportation to/from starting point |
The tour also includes an array of activities, from a scenic 1.5-hour boat cruise to a 1-hour photo stop and swimming session, as well as a 1-hour coffee and tea break. With its personalized experience and informative skipper, this cruise is a must-try for those seeking an unspoiled side of Lake Taupo.
Customer Feedback
Overwhelmingly positive, the Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise boasts a 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, with customers praising the personalized experience and informative skipper.
Reviewers highlight that the cruise offers an ‘unspoiled side of Lake Taupo,’ showcasing stunning volcanic rock formations, hidden ravines, and native forest.
Customers particularly enjoyed:
-
Insightful storytelling from the knowledgeable skipper
-
Opportunity to swim, paddleboard, and picnic in secluded areas
-
Breathtaking views of the Western Bays of Lake Taupo
-
Intimate group size that allows for a more personalized adventure
-
Overall exceptional value for the 3.5-hour experience
With its combination of scenic sights, engaging activities, and attentive service, the Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise earns rave reviews from those seeking an unforgettable day on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided During the Cruise?
Yes, life jackets are provided for all participants during the cruise. Safety is a top priority, so guests can expect to be outfitted with the necessary equipment to enjoy the water activities safely.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the tour. Some options even include picnicking on a secluded beach, which can be upgraded as part of the tour package. The tour provides light refreshments as well.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
There is no minimum age requirement for participants. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour, but parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the activities.
Can I Store My Belongings Securely During the Tour?
The tour operator provides a secure storage area where participants can leave their belongings during the tour. This allows them to fully enjoy the activities without worrying about their personal items. Valuables can be stored safely while exploring the area.
Is There Wi-Fi Available on the Catamaran?
No, there is no Wi-Fi available on the catamaran. The tour focuses on enjoying the natural scenery and activities without distractions. Visitors should expect to disconnect from technology and enjoy the tranquil lake environment during the cruise.
Recap
The Kinloch Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning natural beauty of the region.
Guests can enjoy a scenic boat ride, paddleboard in hidden coves, and savor a picnic on a secluded beach, all while learning about the area’s fascinating geology and culture from a knowledgeable skipper.
This 3.5-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an unforgettable nature experience.
You can check if your dates are available here: