Lake Taupo’s sailing options from Kinloch are refreshingly straightforward and worthwhile. These intimate tours avoid the tourist crowds common at Taupo’s main harbor.
I’m especially fond of the Western Bays Catamaran Tour – a perfect half-day combo of sailing and hiking. In just 1.5 hours, you’ll get up close to Otupotu Falls and find yourself on a pristine beach that most visitors never see.
The 80-minute bush walk is just right – not too strenuous, but satisfying.
The 3.5-hour Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding is another gem, offering the best views of the dramatic Karangahape Cliffs.
What makes this special is the flexibility – swim, paddleboard (in season), or simply soak in the scenery.
Let’s check out the specifics of these top-rated Kinloch sailing adventures.
Key Points
- The Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour offers a 1.5-hour experience with scenic highlights like Otupotu Falls and hidden waterfalls.
- The Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding is a 3.5-hour tour that showcases Karangahape Cliffs and native forest bush.
- Both tours provide knowledgeable guides and receive high customer ratings, with the Kinloch tour achieving a perfect 5/5 rating.
- The Kinloch tour offers personalized attention with a limited group size of 6 participants and includes options for swimming and seasonal paddleboarding.
- Amenities across the tours include complimentary refreshments, photo stops, and a bush walk, providing a well-rounded sailing experience in Kinloch.
Taupo: Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour With Bush Walk
One popular sailing experience in Kinloch is the Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour with Bush Walk. Priced at $79.82 per person, this 1.5-hour tour departs from the Kinloch Marina and accommodates up to 8 participants.
The tour includes a boat cruise with photo stops, complimentary coffee/tea, and an 80-minute bush walk, covering a total distance of around 30km.
Highlights of the tour include Otupotu Falls, rocky shorelines, hidden waterfalls, and a secluded beach. Participants are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a windbreaker, camera, sunscreen, and beachwear.
The tour is conducted in English, and customers can take advantage of flexible booking and a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
Based on 7 reviews, the Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour with Bush Walk has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5, with praise for the knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable experience with ancient rock cliffs and waterfalls.
Read our full review: Taupo: Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour With Bush Walk Review
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Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise With Paddleboarding
For those seeking a more immersive sailing experience on Lake Taupo, the Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding offers an exceptional opportunity. Priced from $160.81 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes participants on a journey through the Western Bays, showcasing the Karangahape Cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and native forest bush.
The small group size, limited to just 6 participants, enhances the overall experience, allowing for personalized attention from the knowledgeable tour guide. Included in the tour are light refreshments, access to secluded areas, and the option to swim or try seasonal paddleboarding. Guests can also choose to bring their own picnic or upgrade for a provided one.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews, this cruise is highly recommended for those seeking an unspoiled side of Lake Taupo. Participants should come prepared with warm clothing, sunglasses, swimwear, and sun protection.
The meeting point is marked by the big yellow Taxicat flag at Taxicat Adventures in Kinloch.
Read our full review: Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise With Paddleboarding Review
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The Sum Up
Kinloch offers a unique sailing experience on Lake Taupo, with a catamaran cruise and the opportunity to try paddleboarding. While the Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour with a bush walk is another excellent option, the Kinloch catamaran cruise provides a peaceful and scenic way to enjoy the lake’s stunning natural surroundings. Whichever option visitors choose, they’re sure to have a memorable sailing adventure in this beautiful region.