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 Zealandβs 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, weβll 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 Mark! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review and for recommending us. Weβre so glad you had a great time and enjoyed the crew, the boat and the trip. We will pass on your kind words! Have a wonderful day.
Loved every minute on the Ernest Kemp. Crew were awesome and funny as. Best $27 iv ever spent
Thanks for coming aboard! We're so pleased you loved every minute of your cruise. It's great to hear our crew helped make the experience so much fun. We really appreciate your kind words. Warm regards, The Ernest Kemp Team
Thanks so much for your wonderful review! We're delighted you enjoyed the cruise and the skipper's informative commentary. It's great to hear you felt comfortable on the water despite the rough conditions. Thanks for your recommendation, and we're glad you liked the boat too! Warm regards, The Ernest Kemp Team
I had a wonderful time on this ride. The captain was super informative on all kinds of little facts as we cruise around which I really enjoyed. Service was great. The boat was immaculate and hot coffee to keep you warm. I would highly recommend this activity. Itβs done in an amazing way is a great value for your money.
Thanks so much for your kind review! We're thrilled you enjoyed the commentary, warm hospitality, and your time on the lake. Thanks for recommending us, and we're glad you found it great value. Warm regards, The Ernest Kemp Team
Thank you so much for your awesome review! Ka mau te wehi! π We're so pleased you and your boy had such a great time. Good on him for jumping into the chilly lake and earning all the congratulations! We're glad you enjoyed the skipper's knowledge and your time on board. Thanks for cruising with us. Warm regards, The Ernest Kemp Team
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MARK WALKER from New Zealand wrote on 20 January 2026
Great crew, boat and trip. Recommend
Has a great time doing this excursion. Fully recommend