Queenstown: Dart River Jet Boat & Funyak Canoe with Lunch

Summary

Jet boat thrills and funyak paddling in Glenorchy’s wild river valleys

You’ll speed up the Dart River by jet boat, paddle easy funyak canoes through Glenorchy’s wild scenery with a local guide, and share a picnic lunch on the riverbank. Expect splashes, laughter, and stories about Māori greenstone traditions—plus hotel pickup from Queenstown so you don’t have to worry about logistics. It’s an adventure that sticks with you long after your arms stop aching.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the slap of cold air as we stepped off the bus in Glenorchy—kind of wakes you up faster than coffee. Our guide, Jamie, grinned and handed out wetsuits while telling us about the old Māori trading routes along the Dart River. I could hear the river before I saw it: that low, rushing sound, almost like it was calling out to us (or maybe that’s just me getting dramatic). The jet boats looked way sleeker than I’d pictured—like something from a Bond movie, honestly.

Once we took off, it felt like flying over glass. The jet boat skidded across the braided river, spray everywhere, wind whipping past my ears so fast I couldn’t hear what my friend yelled at me (something about “hold on!”). Jamie pointed out spots where they filmed Lord of the Rings—he said “Paradise” without irony, which made me laugh. When we finally stopped upriver, everything went quiet except for birds and this weirdly sweet smell from some yellow flowers growing by the bank. That’s when we switched to funyak canoes. I’d never paddled one before but they’re pretty forgiving—even when I zigzagged like a drunk duck.

Paddling downstream was calmer. Our group drifted into these little side streams that felt hidden away—clear water, mossy rocks under your hands if you reached down. At one point Jamie told us about pounamu (greenstone) and how his grandmother used to look for it here; he showed us a smooth stone from his pocket and let us pass it around. Lunch was simple but perfect: sandwiches, hot tea, everyone sitting on driftwood logs swapping stories or just staring at the mountains because honestly what else do you say when you’re surrounded by all that? There were sandflies too—don’t forget repellent unless you want to be part of their lunch.

The ride back in the 4WD bus was bumpy and full of tired laughter. My arms were sore but in that good way. Sometimes I still remember that hush after the jet boat engines cut out—the kind of quiet that makes you pay attention for once. If you’re thinking about a day trip from Queenstown with real adventure and some weirdly tender moments mixed in… well, this Dart River canoe and jet boat tour is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dart River canoe and jet boat tour

• Travel by coach to Glenorchy
• Ride jet boat up Dart River
• Swap to inflatable Funyak canoe
• Paddle downstream with guide
• Stop for picnic lunch outdoors
• Explore hidden side streams and chasm
• Return to Glenorchy by 4WD bus

Top questions

How long is the Dart River jet boat & canoe tour from Queenstown?

The full-day experience typically lasts around 8 hours including transport from Queenstown.

Is lunch included on this Dart River day trip?

Yes, a picnic lunch is included during the canoeing portion of the tour.

Do I need prior canoeing experience for this tour?

No previous canoeing experience is required; guides help everyone get comfortable in funyaks.

Are wetsuits and safety gear provided?

Yes, all equipment including wetsuits, lifejackets, booties, fleece layers and dry bags are provided.

What age or height is required for this Dart River trip?

The minimum age is 5 years old and minimum height is 1 meter (3.3 feet).

Is hotel pickup included from Queenstown?

Yes, round-trip transport from select Queenstown locations is included if you choose that option.

What should I bring for this Dart River canoe tour?

You should bring swimwear, a towel, warm clothes for after paddling, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with injuries or pregnancy?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or those who are pregnant.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transport from Queenstown to Glenorchy if selected, all necessary equipment like wetsuits and dry bags to keep your stuff safe (and dry), a thrilling jet boat ride up the Dart River followed by guided funyak canoeing downstream through side streams and chasms—with plenty of time to explore—and a riverside picnic lunch complete with hot drinks before heading back in a 4WD bus through Paradise Valley.