Kinloch, on the shores of Lake Taupo, is a prime spot for boat tours that let you experience New Zealand’s stunning volcanic landscape from the water. Unlike busy marinas, Kinloch’s calmer setting provides a peaceful launch point for exploring Lake Taupo’s Western Bays. We especially love the Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding for its combination of sightseeing, active fun, and secluded spots—ideal for those wanting a bit of everything. The tour’s focus on visiting Karangahape Cliffs and waterfalls offers a unique perspective on the volcanic terrain, with enough time to swim, paddleboard, and picnic on a quiet beach.
If you’re after more variety, we recommend checking out the other options listed here. Each provides a different slice of Lake Taupo’s natural beauty, from intimate cruises to more active adventures, helping you tailor your experience to your interests and schedule.
1. Kinloch: Lake Taupo Catamaran Cruise with Paddleboarding
At number one, this 3.5-hour boat tour offers a perfect mix of relaxation and activity. Depart from Kinloch aboard a comfortable catamaran and venture into the less-explored Western Bays of Lake Taupo. The tour emphasizes quiet, remote areas, away from the busy tourist spots, giving you a more authentic experience of the lake’s volcanic scenery.
One of the highlights is visiting Karangahape Cliffs and discovering hidden waterfalls that tumble directly into the lake. The boat’s stability and safety make paddleboarding and swimming accessible, even for beginners. The tour includes an optional picnic on a secluded beach, where you can enjoy snacks and the sound of rushing waterfalls. Guests rave about the stunning volcanic rock formations and the feeling of being on your private slice of paradise. The price of $159 per person is reasonable for the 3.5-hour experience, especially considering the personalized nature of the trip.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy active outings combined with scenic beauty. It’s ideal if you want a well-rounded day—nature, water fun, and quiet reflection. The only possible drawback is that it’s a longer, slightly pricier option, but many find the exclusivity and variety worth it.
Bottom line: For those who want a comprehensive, scenic adventure with paddleboarding, this tour balances comfort, activity, and unique access to Lake Taupo’s wild side.
2. Taupo: Lake Taupo Western Bays Catamaran Tour with Bush Walk
Coming in at number two, this 1.5-hour tour offers a quick, lively exploration of Lake Taupo’s Western Bays. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want an authentic experience away from crowds. Depart from Taupo Marina on a stable catamaran and cruise toward pristine bays with rocky cliffs and waterfalls tumbling into the lake.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to stand on the bow and feel the rush as the boat heads toward the waterfalls. After the cruise, guests can enjoy a short bush walk that rewards you with sweeping views of the lake and a visit to a small waterfall. The itinerary is well-paced and includes enough time for photo stops and relaxing on deck. At just $79 per person, it offers great value, especially with the positive reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5. One reviewer said it was “an excellent way to see the lake’s lesser-known sides without spending the whole day.”
This tour is best for travellers looking for a quick yet immersive experience. It’s ideal for families, couples, or anyone with limited time who still wants a taste of Lake Taupo’s rugged beauty. A minor consideration is that it’s shorter, so those wanting more paddling or swimming might prefer the first option.
Bottom line: For a short but memorable cruise with a bit of bushwalking, this tour delivers scenic highlights at a budget-friendly price.
3. Lake Taupo Explorer Sightseeing Cruise with seasonal swim
At number three, this 2.5-hour boat journey offers a delightful mix of sightseeing and water fun. Led by an experienced skipper, it takes you into the Western Bays, weaving past waterfalls, secluded bays, and sandy shores. Key highlights include visiting Otupoto and Tutaewaeroa Waterfalls, which are some of the most majestic on Lake Taupo.
A special feature of this cruise is navigating mysterious ravines and an escape cave, giving it an adventurous edge. The boat also includes a seasonal swim, so if you’re comfortable jumping in, you’ll get a refreshing experience amid stunning scenery. The tour’s friendly atmosphere is complemented by complimentary Sacred Grounds Coffee and Tim Tams, making it feel like a leisurely day with friends.
Priced at $122 per person and with a perfect 5/5 rating from two reviews, it offers excellent value for those seeking a bit of adventure and comfort. Guests love the chance to see hidden waterfalls and feel part of the landscape rather than just observing it from afar. Because it’s a shorter, more relaxed trip, it suits travelers who want a taste of Taupo’s natural wonders without an all-day commitment.
Bottom line: This cruise balances scenic beauty, small-group intimacy, and some playful adventure—great for those wanting a bit of everything.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Kinloch
When deciding which boat tour to take, consider your schedule, budget, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want a fuller day with paddleboarding and secluded beaches, the Kinloch paddleboarding cruise is your best pick. For a quick, active sightseeing option, the Taupo catamaran with bush walk offers great value and a taste of Lake Taupo’s wild beauty. And if you prefer a relaxed, scenic cruise with a little adventure, the Lake Taupo Explorer provides a well-rounded, engaging experience.
Budget also plays a role—pricing varies from $79 for a short cruise to $159 for a longer, activity-filled adventure. Timing-wise, all three tours run seasonally but check availability beforehand, especially if you want to include activities like paddleboarding or swimming.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months, to secure a spot and ensure you get the experience that best matches your interests.
Final Thoughts
Kinloch’s boat tours deliver a variety of ways to experience Lake Taupo’s captivating scenery. Whether you want a longer adventure with paddleboarding, a quick scenic cruise with a bush walk, or a relaxed sightseeing trip with seasonal swimming, there’s an option for you. For active travelers, the first tour combines the best of exploration and fun. For those with limited time, the second offers a concise but engaging taste. And if you prefer a leisurely, scenic journey, the third cruise delivers relaxing views and small-group intimacy.
Choose based on your interests and time available, and don’t forget to book early to make sure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes.