Shotover Jet Queenstown

Get on board ‘Big Red’ the ultimate Queenstown Shotover Jet boat experience that has been thrilling over 3 million people since 1970! If its not the super-charged jet boat ride that scares you it will be the danger of heading straight for overhanging cliff faces and jagged rocks of the Shotover Canyon before pulling away at the VERY last second! This is why this Queenstown jet boat ride takes the cake – combining the epic thrills of high-speed, seemingly impossible manoeuvres, coming perilously close to narrow impending canyon walls and of course the overwhelming scenic location!

These expert Shotover Jet Boat drivers know exactly what they are doing and can haul the boat at speeds of up to 85kph in as little as 10cm of shallow water! Spin and weave your way through the spectacular Shotover River Canyon and enjoy trademark 360-degree spins, power brakes and sweeping fishtails as the rocky canyon walls whiz past you at speed.

This world famous Queenstown Jet Boat experience is just 10 minutes from Queenstown where you can catch a convenient and free shuttle service out to the river base. You then have the rest of the day to try and catch your breath and enjoy other exciting activities in Queenstown!

More info

Inclusions

• 25 minute thrilling Jet Boat ride
• Free shuttle transfers are available on selected trips (11am and 3pm). Bookings are required

Highlights

• 360 degree spins over 10cm of water
• Reach speeds over 85km per hour
• Whip past rocky outcrops
• Skim around crags and boulders
• Speed through the dramatic and spectacular Shotover River Canyons
• Free transfers for selected trips (11am and 3pm), bookings required

Time

• Jet Boat rides depart on the hour every hour between 9am and 4pm. Should you require a time outside of these hours, please contact our friendly staff to see if we can arrange an alternative time to suit your travel requirements
• If you are self-driving to the Arthurs Point river base, please check-in at 30 minutes prior to your trip departure time.
• The courtesy shuttle runs for the 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm & 3pm jet boat departures. Please check-in inside the Station Building in Queenstown 45 minutes prior to your jet boat departure time.
• Jet Boat rides depart every day (river and weather conditions permitting) except Christmas Day (25th December)

Duration

• This is a 25 minute Jet Boat ride (please allow 1.5 hours for the entire experience)

FAQs

• What is the Shotover Jet experience? The Shotover Jet is a thrilling jet boat ride through the dramatic Shotover River Canyons in Queenstown. This world-famous adventure offers high-speed spins, sharp turns, and breathtaking scenery, providing an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers.

• How long does the Shotover Jet ride last? The jet boat ride lasts approximately 25 minutes. However, the total experience, including safety briefings and preparation, takes around 1 hour.

• Where does the Shotover Jet depart from? The Shotover Jet departs from the Shotover Jet River Base, located just 7 km from central Queenstown. Complimentary shuttle transfers are available from the town centre for added convenience.

• Is the Shotover Jet suitable for children? Yes, children can enjoy the Shotover Jet experience! The minimum height requirement is 1m, and children must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a family-friendly adventure that kids will love.

• Do I need to bring special clothing or equipment? No special clothing is required. Warm layers are recommended, as it can get chilly on the water, and you should wear secure footwear. Life jackets are provided, and waterproof spray jackets are available to keep you dry.

• Is the Shotover Jet safe? Absolutely. The Shotover Jet is operated by highly trained drivers and adheres to strict safety standards. Life jackets are mandatory, and all equipment is regularly inspected to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.

• What happens if the weather is bad? The Shotover Jet operates in most weather conditions. However, in extreme cases such as flooding or high winds, rides may be postponed or canceled for safety reasons. If this happens, you can reschedule or receive a refund.

• Can I bring a camera or phone on the ride? To ensure passenger safety, loose items like cameras and phones are not permitted during the ride. However, professional photos and videos are taken during your experience and can be purchased afterward.

• Is the Shotover Jet wheelchair accessible? The Shotover Jet can accommodate guests with limited mobility, but wheelchair access may vary. Contact the Experience Oz team or the operator directly to discuss your specific needs prior to booking.

• Are group bookings available? Yes, the Shotover Jet is a fantastic activity for groups, including corporate events, school trips, or family celebrations. Group discounts may also be available – inquire through Experience Oz when booking.

• How far in advance should I book? It’s recommended to book the Shotover Jet in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, as it’s one of Queenstown’s most popular attractions.

• What makes the Shotover Jet unique? The Shotover Jet is the only jet boat operator allowed to navigate the narrow Shotover River Canyons, offering an exclusive adventure filled with adrenaline-pumping spins and unparalleled scenery.

• Can I participate if I’m pregnant or have medical conditions? For safety reasons, the Shotover Jet is not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions, such as back or neck issues. Consult your doctor and the operator if you’re unsure.

• Are food and drinks available at the Shotover Jet base? Yes, the Shotover Jet base has a café where you can enjoy snacks, drinks, and light meals before or after your ride.

• Is there parking available at the Shotover Jet base? Yes, free parking is available at the Shotover Jet base for guests arriving by car. Alternatively, you can use the complimentary shuttle service from Queenstown.

What To Bring

• We recommend that you dress for the conditions and simply be mindful that there will be some wind-chill factor as you are travelling at speed
• In summer don’t forget your sunblock and some people get concerned that it may be too cold in winter, however simply dress warmly and bring a warm hat and gloves (although the handrails are heated) just like you would for skiing and sunglasses are great year round
• For safety reasons, the use of handheld personal cameras and video cameras are not permitted aboard the jet boats

Additional Information

• A minimum height of 1 metre applies. Shotover jet reserves the right to extend the minimum height to 1.2 metres in certain river conditions, to ensure passenger safety
• Children under 5 years old who meet the minimum height limit are free with a fare paying adult, however a ticket still needs to be issued
• All children (0-15yrs) must travel with a fare paying adult 16 years and over
• Shotover Jet is not suitable if you are pregnant or have any medical conditions including back or neck problems
• Onsite facilities include parking, retail, cafe, toilets, secure lockers and viewing areas

Booking Information

• Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
• Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
• Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
• For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
• Availability was accurate at the time of booking, however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
• We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements