Queenstown's Ultimate Jet Boat Adventure: An Unforgettable Experience

Queenstown, New Zealand, is known as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand and is home to the world's first commercial jet boat tour. With so many jet boat tours to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the best jet boat rides in Queenstown, so you can decide which one is right for you.

Shotover Jet

The Shotover Jet experience is the most exciting jet boat ride in Queenstown. No other jet boat company is legally allowed to operate in the narrow canyons of the Shotover River, so Shotover Jet has sole access to the most thrilling location in Queenstown to jet boat. The shape of the boat, along with its powerful Hamilton jet propulsion system, provides some of the sharpest turns and spins experienced in a jet boat. The company is proudly owned by Ngāi Tahu, the Māori people of this land, whose connection to the Kimiākau (Shotover River) goes back centuries.

The jet boat ride is an exhilarating blend of pristine natural landscape and wall-to-wall canyon action from start to finish. The minimum height to travel is 1.0m, and it is recommended that you bring a waterproof jacket, sunglasses, and layers for the ride.

One reviewer on Tripadvisor commented:

> "Fun with a capital 'F'. The best jet boat ride ever. Super skilled driver with lots of 360s and teeth-clenching drive-bys. Better than Shotover because it lasts longer and you get more action because you aren't stuck in a narrow canyon so have more room to move. Much better scenery too. Incredible!!!!"

Skippers Canyon Jet

The tour begins with a scenic drive up Coronet Peak, where you can stop to take in the breathtaking views. From there, you'll travel by bus along the vertical cliff edges of the Skippers Canyon, an experience that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Once you arrive at the Shotover River, you'll be in for a real treat as the jet boat skims across the water, whizzing around corners, and shooting through the narrow, rocky gorges. The skilled drivers will navigate the boat with exciting near-misses, drifting, and 360-degree spins.

But the fun doesn't stop there. Along the way, you'll also get to see stunning waterfalls and abandoned gold mining relics. The knowledgeable drivers will make stops at various locations to provide interesting insights about the area and even point out a Lord of the Rings filming location. It's truly an adventure-filled experience that combines the thrill of the jet boat ride with the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The Skippers Canyon Jet departs three times a day during the summer (8:30 am, 12:00 pm, and 3:30 pm) and twice a day in the winter (9:00 am and 1:00 pm). The cost of the tour is $159 for adults and $85 for children. It's recommended to book in advance to secure your spot on this popular tour.

Dart River Wilderness Jet

If you're looking for a jet boat tour that offers more than just a thrill ride, the Dart River Wilderness Jet is an excellent choice. This tour takes you deep into the wilderness of a UNESCO World Heritage Area within Mt Aspiring National Park. Here's what you can expect:

The Jet Boat Ride

The jet boat ride itself is an exhilarating experience, with spins and sharp turns along the shallow braided rivers fed by glaciers. The ride lasts for about an hour, giving you plenty of time to take in the stunning natural surroundings.

The Guided Walk

After the jet boat ride, you'll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and explore the ancient beech forest on a 30-minute guided walk. Your nature guide will provide insights into the area's ecology and history, including the early Maori inhabitants of this region.

Backcountry Bus Trip

In addition to the jet boat and guided walk, the tour also includes a backcountry bus trip. This part of the journey takes you through stunning locations used in the filming of the "Lord of the Rings" movie trilogy. You'll get to see some of the breathtaking scenery that made this area famous.

Practical Information

The Dart River Wilderness Jet tour departs twice daily, at 8 am and 12 pm, from The Station building in Queenstown. The full experience lasts about six hours, so make sure you set aside enough time to fully enjoy it. The cost of the tour is $279 for adults and $185 for children.

Reviews

The Dart River Wilderness Jet tour has received positive reviews, with many praising the scenery and the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer mentioned the value for money, calling it a "guided tour of the Glenorchy area as well as an hour-long jetboating ride". Another reviewer recommended the tour but warned about sand flies on the wilderness walk, so be sure to come prepared!

KJet

The jet boating experience lasts for 55 minutes, with departures from the Queenstown pier every hour on the hour between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. in summer, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the rest of the year.

Go Orange Jet Boat

If you're looking for the cheapest jet boat ride in Queenstown, then Go Orange Jet Boat is the one for you! Starting in the town centre at the Steamer Wharf, this high-speed, budget-friendly option offers all the thrills of jet boating at a low cost.

The 25-minute ride is perfect for those short on time or on a budget, with prices starting at $79 NZD for adults and $59 NZD for children. The 60-minute ride is priced at $125 NZD for adults and $69 NZD for children.

So, if you're seeking an affordable, thrilling, and convenient jet boat experience in Queenstown, Go Orange Jet Boat is an excellent option to consider!

Frequently asked questions