Queenstown is famous for high-octane river adventures, but not every experience is about maximum speed or big rapids. Funyaks offer a more immersive way to explore the region’s wild rivers, combining a thrilling jet boat ride into remote wilderness with a calm, guided paddle back downstream in inflatable canoes. This guide explains what Funyaks are, how the experience works, and more, so you can decide if this unique Queenstown river adventure matches your pace, interests, and travel style.
Funyaks are stable, inflatable canoes used on calm river sections, designed for easy paddling and drifting. In Queenstown, the Funyaks experience combines a thrilling jet boat ride deep into the Dart River wilderness with a relaxed, guided paddle back downstream, allowing you to explore braided river channels, forested valleys, and alpine scenery at a slower, more immersive pace. No prior paddling experience is needed, making Funyaks suitable for beginners and families.
| Feature | Funyaks | Jet boating | Whitewater Rafting |
|---|---|---|---|
Type of experience | Jet boat in + guided inflatable canoe paddle out | High-speed motorised river ride | Paddle-powered rafting through rapids |
Thrill level | Moderate (balanced adventure) | High (speed, spins, tight turns) | High to very high (rapids & splashes) |
Pace | Relaxed and unhurried | Fast and action-packed | Fast with intense sections |
Physical effort | Low to moderate | Very low | Moderate to high |
Skill required | None (beginner-friendly) | None | None, but teamwork required |
Scenery focus | Very high (slow, immersive) | Medium (views at speed) | Medium (rapids-focused) |
Water conditions | Calm, braided river channels | Shallow, fast-flowing rivers | Whitewater rapids |
Typical duration | Full day (6.5–9 hrs) | Short ride (20–60 mins) | Half to full day |
Minimum age | From 5 years | From 5–8 years (varies) | Usually 13+ |
Best for | Nature lovers, families, mixed groups | Adrenaline seekers, short stays | Thrill seekers wanting hands-on action |
Wear your safety gear: Life jackets, wetsuits, boots, and spray jackets are provided and must be worn at all times.
Follow your guide’s instructions: Guides are trained to keep you safe and will show you how to paddle and enter/exit the Funyak properly.
Paddle at your own pace: Most of the river is calm, so you can drift or paddle gently while staying with your group.
Stay aware of the river: Even calm rivers can have currents and shallow sections; always listen to your guide.
Health & mobility considerations: Funyaks is beginner-friendly, but participants with severe mobility or medical issues should consult guides beforehand.
Take in dramatic alpine landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and native beech forests along the riverbanks.
Funyaks are stable, inflatable canoes designed for easy paddling and drifting. In Queenstown, the experience combines a jet boat ride into the Dart River wilderness with a guided downstream paddle in these Funyaks.
No prior experience is required. Guides provide instructions and safety briefings, and most of the river is calm, making it beginner-friendly.
Most tours include a thrilling jet boat ride, guided Funyak paddle, riverside picnic lunch, beverages, all safety gear (life jackets, wetsuits, boots, dry bags), and an expert guide. Round-trip transfers from Queenstown are often available as an upgrade.
The full-day adventure lasts approximately 6.5–9 hours, including transport, jet boat ride, paddling, picnic, and return.
Children as young as 5 years old can join, though some providers may have height requirements. It’s suitable for families, couples, and groups.
Funyaks are low to moderate effort. Most of the paddle is gentle drifting, with occasional short paddling sections. No advanced fitness is required.
Dress in layers suitable for changing alpine weather. Wetsuits, boots, and life jackets are provided. Sun protection and waterproof bags for valuables are recommended.
Highlights include braided river channels, Mount Aspiring National Park wilderness, hidden side streams, rock pools, riverside picnic spots, alpine peaks (Mount Earnslaw, Mount Aspiring), and native beech forests. Wildlife sightings like kea, paradise ducks, and trout are common.
Yes. All participants wear safety gear, are guided by trained professionals, and follow safety briefings. The Funyaks are very stable, and guides monitor the river and weather conditions closely.
Yes, waterproof cameras or phones in dry bags are recommended. Most tours provide dry bags to protect your belongings.
Tours may be rescheduled, modified, or canceled in extreme conditions to ensure safety. Guides make final decisions based on river and weather conditions.
Braided river channels, hidden streams, rock pools, Mount Aspiring National Park, alpine peaks (Mount Earnslaw, Mount Aspiring), beech forests, and wildlife such as kea, paradise ducks, and trout.
Some providers may have combined weight limits per Funyak for safety; check with your tour operator.
Funyaks require getting in and out of the inflatable canoe, so it is not fully wheelchair accessible. Contact providers for alternative arrangements.
