Your experience

Jet boat through Queenstown’s wild rivers

Get ready for a non-stop adventure on the famed Kawarau and Shotover Rivers in Queenstown. Upon arrival at the Main Town Pier, the journey begins with a detailed safety briefing—children and adults alike are well cared for with special life jackets provided for little ones. Once everyone’s onboard, the action starts. The powerful jet boat accelerates quickly, slicing across Lake Wakatipu’s pristine waters before surging into the twisting channels of the Kawarau River.

With an expert at the helm, the boat reaches thrilling speeds near 95kph, combining heart-pounding acceleration with impressive 360-degree spins. Spray arcs over the boat as you whip past rugged cliffs and under historic bridges with panoramic mountain scenery all around. The ride showcases dramatic views of the Remarkables mountain range and surrounding alpine vistas, making every twist and turn a feast for the senses.

Family-friendly excitement

No one is left out: KJet’s spacious boats and range of life jackets, including for children as young as two, mean the ride is perfect for families and groups of all ages. Children aged 2–4 ride free with an adult, making it an affordable adventure for parents traveling with little ones. Safety is top priority at every step—whether you’re sitting independently or with a child on your lap, crew are on hand to ensure everyone is comfortable and secure.

Unmatched thrills and scenic beauty

After navigating the wide stretches of the Kawarau, hold on as the jet boat swings into the Shotover River’s shallow braided streams, sometimes gliding through water as shallow as five centimetres. The vessel’s unique design allows for tight turns, dramatic splashes and spins, and bursts of speed even in remarkably shallow spots. This combination of adrenaline and scenery is unique to Queenstown and ideal for both first-time visitors and seasoned adventurers.

Frequent departures throughout the day from the centrally located Main Town Pier mean you can fit this adventure easily into your Queenstown itinerary. No matter the season, the excitement never lets up—come prepared with warm clothes in winter or sun protection in summer, and don’t forget your sense of adventure.

• Expert guides deliver live commentary and keep you safe throughout

• Photos are available to purchase at the end of your ride

• Enjoy Queenstown’s legendary views from a unique, water-level perspective

Book your KJet Queenstown 60-Minute Kawarau and Shotover River Jet Boat Ride tickets now!