At Taupō Sailing Adventures, we believe that every small action matters. Caring for our environment isn’t just a policy—it’s a value we live by every day on the water. We’re proud of the steps we’ve taken so far, and we’re always looking for ways to do better.
We want to take you on a journey to show you what we are doing to become more sustainable.
Sailing is naturally one of the most sustainable ways to travel. We rely on the wind as our main source of power, and all our vessels are true sailing boats—no large motorboats as back up waiting in case of weather. It took us years to find the right boat that could stay true to our values while still offering comfort in more challenging weather. That journey led us to our sailing catamaran, Tiua—a choice made with intention, not convenience. We simply weren’t willing to compromise.
But sometimes even in New Zealand there are days without wind – or it is from the wrong direction to reach our destination. On those occasions, we do use a small motor. Did you know that in the rare case of motoring the whole trip we use as little as about 5l Diesel for a 2.5 hour trip?
Apart from the diesel we are almost entirely self-sufficient. Solar panels keep our batteries charged, and only one of our vessels ever uses shore power.
We’re committed to protecting the clarity and health of Lake Taupō—no grey or black water is released into the lake. Everything is collected onboard and responsibly pumped out at designated facilities.
Our classic yacht, Fearless (aka Kindred Spirit), has been lovingly restored from the bilge upward to meet modern environmental standards, blending heritage with responsibility.
We reduce waste wherever we can. Cans and bottles are recycled after every trip, and we limit single-use plastics onboard as much as possible. It’s about being mindful and making conscious choices, day after day.
We proudly support the Tiaki Promise—a reminder to care for the people, places and culture of Aotearoa New Zealand. This land and lake are precious, and we believe that everyone who visits shares in the responsibility to protect them, for now and for future generations.
We also contribute to “Trees That Count” and local projects like Greening Taupō to help restore native forest and biodiversity in our region.
We’re honoured to have been certified once again by EKOS as a Net Zero Carbon Lite Organisation for the financial year 2025 period— as far as we know, one of only two marine operators in New Zealand to earn this recognition, and the very first boat tour company based at Taupō Marina. In 2020, we were certified as a Climate Positive Business Operation, and the process has only grown more rigorous since then. For the 2025 financial year, our measured carbon footprint was 34.13 tCO2e, which we have offset by supporting meaningful climate projects in New Zealand. Measuring our impact helps keep us accountable, and we’re committed to trying to reduce it further every year
We know there is always more to learn, always room to improve. But we believe that progress begins with commitment—and that the time to act is now. Join us, and be part of a gentler way to explore.
Taupo Sailing Adventures is a local family owned and operated business with the owners Dave & Jess involved in the day-to day business.
These two, along with their amazing team at Taupō Sailing Adventures, are deeply passionate about what they do. Most importantly, they love sharing their passion for sailing with every customer and making each trip a personal experience. Here, you are not just a number — you are valued as a person.
Dave has a background in hospitality; speedway and sailing are his passions. Coming from a family of seafarers and boat builders it was inevitable that he would take up sailing. Joining the local yacht club, he was Rear Commodore, sailing instructor and competed in a number of regattas picking up a few trophies along the way.
Dave gathered some off shore sailing experience sailing in the Pacific Islands.
Dave has spent over 25 years sailing on Lake Taupo with more than 20 years on varies charter yachts, making him the most experienced sailing charter yacht skipper on the lake. Dave sailed Barbary for 5 years and learned from ‘Barbary Bill’ – Barbary’s original owner who started offering sailing trips to the Māori Rock Carvings. Since 2010, Dave has been sailing his own yachts – first Fearless, then Kindred Spirit since 2019 and since 2023 Tiua also.
He restored both Fearless and Kindred Spirit himself, with the help of family and friends, and knows his boats inside out.
Fearless just recently got retired after serving Dave well. She was out of the water since Covid. To keep the legacy going Kindred Spirit will trade from Spring 2025 as Sail Fearless.
Jess is originally from Germany and a former customs officer.
She fell in love with Dave and sailing during her travels in New Zealand in early 2016. She met Dave doing a trip on Fearless making this boat very special for both of them and leaving them heavy hearted to see it being retired. Jess is now looking after the office. Before their two kids were born she was joining Dave on as many trips as possible
