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 and 2pm = 2 hour (approx).
9:00am, 12:30pm, 4:30pm, and 6:30pm = 1.5 hour (approx).
Hi Laura! Thank you for leaving us a review, have a great day.
Really lovely people and a beautiful boat! Surplus was that our doggy was allowed! Definitely recommend!
Hi Aya! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and for recommending us. We are delighted to hear you, and your furry friend enjoyed the boat trip and that our crew helped make it a welcoming experience. We will pass on your kind words! We hope the memories from your time on the lake stay with you. Wishing you a lovely rest of your summer.
My granddaughters and I loved the trip. Everyone was friendly and conversation was easy. My granddaughters loved the dog passenger onboard, as they can't have one yet. The skipper was very informative about the lake, the Ernest Kemp boat, Taupo township, the carvings, and lots more. A great way to spend an afternoon. Having a discounted trip was even better.
Hi Tracy! Thank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review. We’re delighted to hear you and your granddaughters enjoyed the trip and the friendly atmosphere on board. We will pass on your kind words! It’s great to know the commentary and special touches made for a memorable afternoon. Have a great day!
Welcoming and knowledgeable hosts with Capt Pete and Ross. Both gave the trip a personal touch. Great value for money. Commentary during trips, snacks and drinks, swimming and opportunity to steer the boat. Thanks for a great afternoon
Hi Andreas! Thank you for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful review and for sharing your experience with us. We’re thrilled to hear the trip was a highlight of your time in Taupō and that the personal touches from the crew helped make it so enjoyable. It’s great to know you felt it was good value and had the chance to really get involved during the afternoon. We truly appreciate your kind feedback and wish you all the best!
Awesome sail, very professional and felt like we were on the high seas!! The waves were mean! Thank you
Hi Leeza! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review. We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed the sail and that our crew made the trip feel exciting and we will pass on your kind words! Wishing you a wonderful rest of your day.
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Laura Stewart from Canada wrote on 18 January 2026
Fun morning out
Great crew good experience