Experience Queenstown’s Original and Most Famous Thrill Ride — the Shotover Jet Boat
Get ready for the ride of your life on the world-famous Shotover Jet Boat. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience that perfectly blends jaw-dropping natural beauty with high-speed action. Skim across the crystal-clear waters of the Shotover River and race through its narrow, towering canyons — a must-do Queenstown classic for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike.
The Ultimate Canyon Adventure
Departing from Shotover Jet’s base just a short drive from Queenstown, your adventure begins with a safety briefing and gear-up session. Once you’ve strapped in, your expert driver takes control of the powerful jet boat, capable of blasting you through shallow waters and performing those legendary 360-degree spins.
Adrenaline Meets Natural Beauty
Hold on tight as you speed past jagged canyon walls, through tight rock gaps, and over turquoise rapids. Every twist and turn reveals another incredible backdrop of New Zealand’s rugged landscapes. It’s one of the few experiences where you’ll be screaming one second and slack-jawed in awe the next.
Ngāi Tahu Tourism Connection
Proudly owned by Ngāi Tahu Tourism, the Māori guardians of this land, the Shotover Jet Boat experience has deep cultural roots. The local iwi (tribe) holds a centuries-old connection to the Kimiākau (Shotover River), and sharing this breathtaking place with visitors is both a privilege and a tradition.
Important Details:
-
Duration: 25 minutes on the water (allow approx. 1 hour total)
-
Location: Shotover River, Arthurs Point (5 minutes from Queenstown)
-
Includes: Jet boat ride, safety briefing, life jacket, spray jacket
-
Minimum Age: 3 years
-
Minimum Height: 1 metre
-
Operates: Year-round, weather dependent
Why It’s Unmissable:
-
World-famous high-speed jet boat ride
-
Signature 360-degree spins
-
Thrilling canyon runs through narrow passages
-
Owned by Ngāi Tahu Tourism with rich Māori heritage
-
Queenstown’s original adrenaline experience
Don’t leave Queenstown without ticking off this iconic adventure — it’s pure, unfiltered New Zealand excitement.
