Join us for a relaxing cruise along the magnificent Lake Taupo aboard The Ernest Kemp, a beautiful vintage replica steamboat!
Lake Taupo, one of the largest freshwater volcanic craters in the world, is home to the famous Maori Rock Carvings.
Only accessible by boat, we will get you the closest to these incredible 10 metre high carvings which tower high over New Zealand’s largest lake. Learn about the spiritual and cultural significance of the area from your skippers interesting and informative commentary.
With comfortable seating both inside and out, bathroom facilities and a licensed bar, we’ll ensure your cruise on the Ernest Kemp will be warm and comfortable. Your skipper even welcomes you to join him in the wheelhouse and take a turn at the wheel! Bring a towel as there may be an opportunity for a swim *at skippers discretion.
The Ernest Kemp cruise is an enjoyable outing and a great way to see the Maori Rock Carvings and to get out onto Lake Taupo.
Cruise Duration:
10:30am, 2pm, 5pm and 7pm = 2 hour (approx).
9:00am, 12:30pm, 4:30pm = 1.5 hour (approx).
All prices are shown in NZD ($)
Thank you for your kind words, Fauziah! We're so glad you enjoyed the trip and our skipper's commentary. Have a wonderful day!
Brilliant trip across the lake to see the Māori carvings in the rocks - we got very up close too! Good and funny commentary throughout, with snacks and drinks available to purchase onboard alongside the complimentary tea, coffee and biscuits. Overall 10/10 and would do again - excellent value for money!!
Thanks so much for the great review, Leah! We're glad you had a fun trip, enjoyed the close-up view of the carvings, and liked the mix of commentary and onboard treats. Your 10/10 rating and feedback on the value mean a lot to us!
Great leisurely cruise and commentary around lake to the maori rock carvings with up close viewing
Thanks, John! We're glad you enjoyed the relaxing cruise and close-up view of the carvings. Appreciate you taking the time to share your thoughts!
Loved this boat trip!! Highly recommend!!
Thanks for the great review and recommendation, Dominique! So glad you loved the trip—hope to see you onboard again soon!
Awesome way to spend the day. I work with youth with disabilities, and they were all allowed to come up and steer the ship, toot the horn and even got certificates - the staff were so kind to our group! Lovely tea and coffee on board, gorgeous views, great way to spend a Saturday.
Thanks so much, Sarah! We’re thrilled your group had such a special time onboard. It was a pleasure having you all, and we’re so glad everyone enjoyed the experience (and the tea!). Hope to see you again soon!
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Fauziah Zakariah from Malaysia wrote on 04 June 2025
Good run of the boat
It was a good trip around Lake Taupo. The skipper did his part in explaining different parts of the bay. Maori carvings on the other side was great to look at. It was a cold day but hot beverages were provided.