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Queenstown Jet Boating Tickets
























































From happy customers

Loved by 44 million+
Jade

Jade

Mar 2025
4/5
Did this with my partner, both new to rafting. Staff made it really easy to follow. Jet boat was a rush! Rapids weren’t huge but enough to get the heart going. Loved floating down the river together.
Marina

Marina

Mar 2025
4/5
Went with hubby and our two boys. Guides made it extra fun for the kids, letting them help paddle and splash. Jet boat was LOUD but everyone loved it. Changing rooms a bit cramped, but minor issue. Would do again.
Noah

Noah

Feb 2025
5/5
Best activity in Queenstown! Guides are funny and know the river inside out. Tunnel part is wild. Would recommend to everyone.
Lucia

Lucia

Apr 2025
5/5
Highlight of our trip! My husband was nervous but ended up LOVING it. Rapids are wild but we felt safe the whole time. Staff are super professional and funny. Hot shower at the end is a lifesaver. Would do again.
Kathryn Mary Walsham
AU

Kathryn

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5
Awesome experience. Although it was really busy, the staff were friendly and helpful. Our jet boat driver was also lovely. Thanks for a wonderful time!
Jonatan

Jonatan

Mar 2025
5/5
Did this solo and met some cool people in my raft. The guides are hilarious and really know the river. Jumping in the water was a shock but worth it. Would recommend.
Lina

Lina

Apr 2025
5/5
Took my parents who are in their 60s—they were nervous but the guides were so patient. It’s not just about the rapids, the river itself is GORGEOUS. We floated under these steep cliffs and saw some birds (kingfishers maybe?). You get wet, but it’s not scary. Perfect family experience.

Top things to do in Queenstown

Things to know before booking your Queenstown jet boating trip

  • Popular times: If you're eyeing sunset slots or weekends, be sure to book 3-7 days in advance to get the best availability.
  • For quieter days: Book an early morning or weekday slot to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful ride.
  • Accessibility: Shotover River is wheelchair accessible; others have limited access.
  • For an extra NZ$60-$80, combine your jet boat ride with white-water rafting, a moderate skill jump that adds a physically engaging challenge through rapids after the boat tour.
  • Add NZ$40-$70 to paddle through calmer river sections in an inflatable Funyak, offering a more relaxed, hands-on experience after the jet boat ride.
  • For NZD $50, extend your adventure with a scenic road tour that takes you through Queenstown’s breathtaking landscapes, offering a more relaxed way to explore the region.

Which Queenstown river should you choose for your jet adventure?

  • Kawarau River: A family-friendly ride through calm waters with vineyard views, perfect for first-timers and those seeking a relaxed adventure.
  • Shotover River: A 25-minute ride through narrow, high-speed canyon passes, ideal for adrenaline seekers, with wheelchair accessibility.
  • Dart River: A 2-hour wilderness adventure, blending fast-flowing fun with peaceful moments among snow-capped peaks and native forests, great for nature lovers.
  • Skippers Canyon: A rugged, 60-minute ride through historic gold mining trails, best suited for experienced adventurers seeking remote landscapes.

Age restrictions:

  • Kawarau & Shotover Rivers are suitable for ages 5+.
  • Dart River has no strict age limit, but is better suited for ages 10+.
  • Skippers Canyon is best for adults or older children due to its more rugged terrain.

Find your best Queenstown jet boating tour

TourRoutes/sightsInclusionsBoarding PointPrice

Kawarau & Shotover 60-minute Jet Boat Ride

Scenic views of Kawarau Gorge & Shotover Canyon

360° spins, vineyard views, historic Kawarau Bridge

Main Pier, Queenstown

From NZ$149

Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride and white-water rafting by RealNZ

Scenic ride through Kawarau Gorge, vineyard views

360° spins, vineyard views, white-water rafting

Main Pier, Queenstown

From NZ$319

Shotover River 25-minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride

High-speed spins through Shotover Canyon

High-speed spins, 360° turns, canyon views

10 minutes from Queenstown

From NZ$179

Skippers Canyon 25-minute Jet Boat Ride

Scenic, rugged terrain through Skippers Canyon

Gold mining history, canyon views

Shuttle from Queenstown

From NZ$200

Dart River 2-hour Jet Boat and Wilderness Tour

Wilderness, native forests, snow-capped peaks

Jet boat ride, wilderness tour

Shuttle from Queenstown

From NZ$359

Dart River "Funyaks" Canoe and Jet Boat Experience

Funyaks canoe ride + jet boat ride through Dart River

Canoeing, jet boat ride, light snacks

Shuttle from Queenstown

From NZ$495

Get to know your Queenstown jet boat operators

KJet

  • Best for: Family-friendly fun & iconic Queenstown views
  • Tour types: Scenic jet boat tours
  • Style: Large, semi-open boats with plenty of seating and 360° spins
  • Boarding point: Main Town Pier, Queenstown

Popular tours

Kawarau and Shotover River Jet Boat Ride

Shotover Jet

  • Best for: Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies
  • Tour types: Extreme jet boat tours through narrow canyons
  • Style: High-speed boats with a focus on sharply navigating narrow river paths
  • Boarding point: Shotover Jet Base, 10 minutes from Queenstown

Popular tours:

Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride

RealNZ

  • Best for: Scenic tours and family-friendly adventures
  • Tour types: Scenic jet boat rides with added wilderness tours
  • Style: Semi-open boats offering comfort and great visibility
  • Boarding point: Main Pier, Queenstown

Popular tours

Shotover River White Water Rafting

Kawarau River White Water Rafting and Jet Boat Ride

Dart River Adventures

  • Best for: Active adventurers and family fun
  • Tour types: Combine Funyak canoeing with jet boating
  • Style: Paddle through calm waters in inflatable kayaks paired with high-speed boat rides
  • Boarding point: Glenorchy, near Queenstown

Popular tours

Dart River Funyaks Canoe and Jet Boat Experience

Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Tour

Your Queenstown jet boat boarding points explained

Perfect for those staying in central Queenstown, with views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range.

Address: Main Town Pier, Queenstown, New Zealand

Find on maps

Getting there:

  • By car/taxi: Located in central Queenstown with public parking nearby.
  • Walking: 5-minute walk from central Queenstown, accessible by foot along the waterfront.

The thrilling Shotover River canyon experience, ideal for thrill-seekers. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters.

Address: Shotover Jet Base, 10 minutes from Queenstown, New Zealand

Find on maps

Getting there:

  • By car/taxi: 10-minute drive from Queenstown along Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.
  • By shuttle: Complimentary shuttle from central Queenstown.

Launch point for Funyaks and Dart River tours, surrounded by breathtaking natural landscapes and a gateway to Fiordland National Park.

Address: Glenorchy, New Zealand

Find on maps

Getting there:

  • By car/taxi: A scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown, along Glenorchy-Queenstown Road.
  • By shuttle: Shuttle services available from central Queenstown.

Plan your Queenstown jet boat tour

  • Arrival and check-in: Arrive 15-20 minutes before departure at your designated pier. Show your booking voucher to receive your boarding pass. Valid ID may be required.
  • What to bring: Waterproof gear is provided, but wear quick-drying clothes and bring your camera for the scenic views.
  • Boarding process: Boarding starts 15-20 minutes before departure. First-come, first-served seating is typically available, but some tours may offer reserved spots.
  • Security: Security checks are minimal but follow all crew instructions during the boarding process.
  • Child and pet policy: Most tours are suitable for children aged 5+; check with operators for any age restrictions. Guide dogs are allowed, but pets are not.
  • Seating: Choose between open-air seating for full views or covered seating for more comfort in cooler weather.
  • Kawarau & Shotover River Adventure: Daily departures from 9am to 5pm
  • Shotover River thrills: Multiple daily departures, every 30 minutes from 10am to 4:30pm
  • Dart River Wilderness tour: Departs at 10am, 12:30pm, and 2:30pm
  • Best time of day: Late afternoon, before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
  • Best season/month: Spring (October - November) and Autumn (March - May) provide mild weather, fewer tourists, and stunning autumn foliage in Dart River.

Onboard facilities:

  • Comfortable semi-open seating
  • Life jackets for safety
  • Waterproof gear provided for wet tours
  • Restrooms available on most boats

Pier-side facilities:

  • Ticket desks at the pier
  • Waiting areas with views of the lake
  • Public restrooms nearby
  • Wheelchair accessibility: The Shotover Jet and KJet tours are wheelchair accessible with assistance available. Some smaller boats and remote locations like Glenorchy may have limited access.
  • For families with strollers: Stroller space is available on most boats. Early boarding is recommended for families.
  • For elderly or mobility-impaired passengers: Steady ramps are provided where applicable. Early boarding is advised for added comfort.
  • Clothing: Wear quick-drying clothes to stay comfortable on the water. Waterproof jackets are provided, but consider layering up if it's cooler.
  • Footwear: Non-slip shoes are ideal, especially on wet or slippery surfaces. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety.
  • Camera: Bring your camera or smartphone for stunning photos. Waterproof bags or cases for your tech are a good idea, as some tours can get splashed.
  • Essentials: A light jacket or scarf for cool evenings, and sunglasses for sunny days. Sunscreen is recommended for daytime tours.
  • Motion sickness: If you're prone to motion sickness, consider bringing motion-sickness bands or medication for a more comfortable ride.
  • Special requests: If you have any special needs or dietary requirements (e.g., for Funyaks or extended tours), let your operator know in advance to accommodate your needs.
  • For best views, sit port side for Kawarau Gorge and starboard side for Shotover Canyon.
  • Bring a light jacket or scarf for evening rides. Sit in the center for stability and avoid the bow if prone to motion sickness.
  • Golden hour is ideal for photos. Avoid flash and respect fellow passengers’ views.
  • Strollers allowed (fold for boarding). Early boarding recommended for elderly passengers or those with mobility concerns.
  • Weather & cancellations: Check forecasts before booking. Cancellations allowed up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Etiquette: Follow crew instructions, be mindful of shared spaces, and tipping is optional but appreciated.

Frequently asked questions about Queenstown jet boating tours

How long does a standard Queenstown jet boat ride last?

The Kawarau & Shotover 60-Minute Jet Boat Ride lasts approximately 60 minutes, offering thrilling spins and great views. Other rides like the Shotover River 25-Minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride are shorter, lasting around 25 minutes for a quick adrenaline rush.

Can I book last-minute for a Queenstown jet boat tour?

While it’s always recommended to book in advance to guarantee your preferred time, some tours may be available for last-minute booking depending on availability.

What’s the difference between a scenic and extreme jet boat ride?

Scenic tours like the Kawarau & Shotover 60-Minute Jet Boat Ride focus on stunning views of rivers and landscapes, with thrilling spins. Extreme rides like the Shotover River 25-Minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride are all about high-speed maneuvers through narrow canyons, providing more intense thrills.

Are jet boat tours worth it in Queenstown?

Absolutely! Queenstown’s jet boating tours provide an unmatched combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and local history, making it one of the most exciting and unique ways to experience the region’s waterways.

How helpful is commentary/audio guide on a jet boat tour?

Many jet boat tours, like the Kawarau & Shotover 60-Minute Jet Boat Ride, offer live commentary or audio guides that enhance the experience by explaining the local history, landmarks, and the natural surroundings, giving you deeper insights into the region.

What is the minimum age for a jet boat ride in Queenstown?

The minimum age for jet boating varies by operator. For example, KJet allows children as young as 2 years old to join the ride, with free rides for children aged 2-5. For other tours like the Skippers Canyon 25-Minute Jet Boat Ride, the minimum age is typically 3 years.

Can pregnant women go on a jet boat ride?

Jet boating is not recommended for pregnant women, as the high speeds and rapid turns may cause discomfort or risk. Always check with the operator for their health and safety guidelines before booking.

Are there weight or height restrictions for jet boat rides?

While there are generally no upper weight limits for most tours, some operators may require a minimum height of 1 meter (about 3'3") for child passengers. It's essential to check specific operator requirements.

What should I wear for a jet boat ride in Queenstown?

It’s recommended to wear quick-drying clothes and non-slip shoes. While waterproof jackets are provided, consider layering for colder months. Sunglasses and hats are essential for protection from wind and sun.

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