60-Minute Jet Boat Ride Queenstown: Kawarau & Shotover Rivers
Spin and blast through three waterways in one adrenaline-soaked hour
A 60-minute jet boat ride in Queenstown that covers two rivers and a lake, departing hourly from the Main Town Pier in the town center. You'll travel at speeds up to 95kph across Lake Wakatipu, spin 360 degrees on the Kawarau River, and navigate the Shotover River in water less than 5cm deep in places. Life vests and a skilled driver are included. Check in 15 minutes before your departure time.
What’s included
- Life vest.
- skilled driver and guide in English.
- 60-minute jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu, the Kawarau River and the Shotover River.
Times
- Every day 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00
Before you book
Operated by KJet Queenstown
Prices and times updated today
Traveler reviews
The experience
If you've got a free afternoon in Queenstown and want to skip the planning, this jet boat departs every hour on the hour straight from the Main Town Pier: no hotel pickups, no transfers, just walk down and check in 15 minutes early. The boat covers 45km across three waterways in 60 minutes, which is longer time on the water than most jet boat rides in the region. You'll accelerate across Lake Wakatipu first, then drop into the Kawarau River where the driver throws the boat into tight 360-degree spins, and finish on the Shotover River where the water gets so shallow, less than 5cm in some sections, that the ride becomes pure physics and reflex.
The speed tops out at 95kph and the driver is trained to handle the tight turns and shallow channels. Life vests are supplied and fitted before you board. Wear a jacket and sun protection because you're exposed to spray and open sky for the full hour, and comfortable shoes help on the dock and stairs. Children from age 2 can ride, though they'll need to sit on an adult's lap if they're infants. The boat is wheelchair accessible, though caregivers need to assist with getting down the stairs and onto the vessel itself.
Is this one for you?Pick this if you want to cover three rivers in one ride and have hourly departures from the town pier so you can join whenever your schedule allows.
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Top questions
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 14 years); Infant (2 to 4 years): free.
What happens if it rains?
It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.
What's the water like on the Shotover River where the jet boat goes?
The Shotover River runs extremely shallow (less than 5cm deep in some places), which is what lets the jet boat navigate it at high speed without grounding. That shallow draft is also what makes the ride feel so immediate and intense.
Do I need to arrange transport to get to the jet boat in Queenstown?
The jet boat departs from the Main Town Pier in central Queenstown, so you can walk there or use local transport. No hotel pickup is included, but the pier is in the town center and easy to reach on foot or by taxi.
How often do the jet boats leave, and do I need to book a specific time?
Boats depart every hour on the hour, and you should check in 15 minutes before your departure. You'll book a specific departure time when you reserve.
What should I wear for a 60-minute jet boat ride?
Wear a jacket and sun protection. You'll be exposed to spray and sun for the full hour. Comfortable shoes are important for walking the dock and stairs to board the boat.
Is this jet boat ride suitable if I have back or heart problems?
The ride involves high speeds, sharp turns and 360-degree spins, so it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health. Check with your doctor if you have concerns about the physical demands.
60-Minute Jet Boat Ride Queenstown: Kawarau & Shotover Rivers
1h · EN
from NZ$ 159 per person
≈ US$ 91 in your currency
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