Speed Boat Tours

Dart River Jet Boat and Wilderness Tour

Experience the thrill of a 2-hour jet boat ride through the braided Dart River, covering up to 90 km of alpine scenery in Mount Aspiring National Park.

With dense forests as your backdrop, hear your expert guide share Māori legends and stories of their treks through this land to reach the sacred pounamu fields.

Speed over the Dart River’s braided channels, passing snow-capped peaks like Mount Cosmos and Nox while spotting rare blue ducks in crystal-clear waters.

Navigate past towering mountains and glacial valleys in UNESCO-listed Mount Aspiring National Park, a filming location for The Lord of the Rings and Narnia.

Fun fact: The Dart River is also called Te Awa Whakatipu, meaning "the river of whirlpools," named by Māori for its swirling currents and braided channels.

2-hour jet boat ride

Professional driver/guide

Life jackets

Spray jackets

Complimentary round-trip transfers from Queenstown (based on selected option)

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Speed through glacier-fed waters on a 2-hour Dart River jet boat tour in a UNESCO World Heritage area.

Getting started

Arrive at the designated Queenstown meeting point, where staff will assist with check-in and safety procedures. After a brief introduction, board your jet boat and get ready for an adventure led by your experienced guide.

What to expect

The Dart River, set within a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, is renowned for its crystal-clear, glacier-fed waters and dramatic scenery. This region showcases some of New Zealand’s most pristine wilderness, shaped by ancient glaciers.

Features

Wilderness jet boat ride: Zip through narrow river channels, surrounded by native forests and towering peaks.

Glacier-fed waters: Experience the vibrant scenery of the Dart River, created by centuries of glacial movement.

Expert commentary: Your guide shares insights into the area’s ecology and history, connecting you to the landscape’s stories.

Convenient departure: Start and end your journey in Queenstown, with optional complimentary transfers on select variants.

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.

Carry your booking confirmation (printed or digital) for entry verification.

Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and changing weather conditions; layered clothing and waterproof jackets are recommended.

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for outdoor and wet environments.

Bring sun protection such as sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

What’s not allowed

Food and drinks are not permitted on the jet boat.

Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited during the experience.

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not allowed on board.

Smoking is not permitted at any time during the tour.

Safety is a priority so this experience is restricted for guests under the age of 3 years and under the height of 1m (3.28ft).

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Guests must be able to board and disembark the jet boat independently.

Choose safety and comfort: This experience is not the best fit for pregnant people and people with back issues.

Your safety comes first so visitors with cardiac issues and other serious medical conditions are restricted from participating in this experience.

Additional information

The experience operates in a UNESCO World Heritage area; please respect the natural environment and follow all instructions from your guide.

The tour runs in most weather conditions; in the event of severe weather, the operator will contact you regarding rescheduling or refunds.

It is highly recommended to wear comfortable, supportive close-toed shoes during the experience.

On colder days, please wear extra layers of clothing for maximum comfort.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Please display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

Meeting point

Please check your final voucher for the meeting point details and specific instructions.

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