This is a nice way to get up close to the falls and get a few pictures. The boat cruise itself is nice, but there really isn't anything to see until you get around to the falls other than a few ducks and swans. The ride take around 1 hour 20 min and you can jump into the river for a short swim if you like. While it's not too expensive, we paid around NZ$39 per person, it's a pretty big investment of time. Once at the falls, the driver made several swings round to allow people a chance to get pictures in front of the raging waters but it was a bit rushed and tricky in the timing. read more

If you're visiting Taupo with younger kids and they're not tall enough for the Huka Falls Jet, this is more than just a good alternative, the Huka Falls River Cruise stands out on its own as a must-try experience. While adrenaline junkies might say it lacks the excitement that the jet boat offers, it more than makes up for it with the relaxing cruise, a very capable and friendly skipper and an awesome view of the falls -- they can definitely get you much closer to the amazing waterfalls and there's plenty of photo opportunity when they do. Our skipper was super friendly and knowledgeable, he even let let our 3-year-old and 4-year-old "drive" the boat, which was the highlight of our trip. He knew about the river's history, the birdlife in the area and was comfortable with some quiet moments where you can just appreciate the view. This is one of the best experiences for us in NZ so far. read more

Huka Falls River Cruise - Huka River Cruise Boat with a viewing deck in front and a big open space at the back. There's also lots of seats in the covered area. - Boat Charters Near Me - Rotokawa, WKO

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We spent a relaxing morning floating up the river while enjoying the fauna and landscapes. Compared to the Huka Jet boats, we were able to cruise at a leisurely pace and take plenty of photos along the way. read more

This is a hidden gem. We had heard about the jet boat but when we arrived, we realized we were at the wrong end of the river for the jet boat ride. But - what we did find was the River Cruise. I have to say, it was our lucky day. It had everything that we were looking for and way more. The boat was extremely comfortable, offering perfect views of all aspects of the river, and sharing a complimentary cup of coffee or tea with the other passengers, it was a great trip. Our skipper was a wealth of information, telling stories, jokes and local recommendations. He got us so close to the falls that, with the roar of his twin engined boat, it was the best ride ever!! Then he let our 12 yr old and 15 yr old drive the boat on the way back and called them captain. It was hard to get us out at the end. Cost was reasonable, pace was perfect and getting a really close look of the falls - priceless. Awesome afternoon. read more