Speed Boat Tours

30-Minute Jet Boat Ride Across Lake Wakatipu and the Kawarau River

Experience the thrill of high-speed spins and sharp turns as your expert driver navigates Queenstown's turquoise waters.

After a full safety briefing, board your jet boat and get ready for an action-packed ride led by a knowledgeable local guide.

Glide across Lake Wakatipu and the Kawarau River, with life vests provided for all passengers.

Take in views of the Remarkables mountain range while your driver shares fascinating insights about the area’s natural features.

Jet boats reach speeds up to 95 km/h, combining Kiwi ingenuity with Queenstown’s scenic landscapes for a uniquely New Zealand adventure.

This ride blends adrenaline-pumping action with local stories, making it as educational as it is exciting for all ages.

30-minute jet boat ride across the Kawarau River

Expert guides

Life vests

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Race across Lake Wakatipu and the Kawarau River on a 30-minute jet boat ride, reaching speeds up to 95 km/h with expert local drivers.

Getting started

Arrive at Thunder Jet Queenstown, Watersports Kiosk on Steamer Wharf Beach Street at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. After a full safety briefing, you’ll receive your life vest and meet your expert driver. Once everyone is ready, you’ll board the jet boat and prepare for departure across the lake.

What to expect

Queenstown Jet Boat Ride

This high-speed adventure takes you from the heart of Queenstown onto the turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu and along the Kawarau River, with the Remarkables mountain range as your backdrop.

Experience thrilling maneuvers as your driver accelerates up to 95 km/h, performing sharp turns and 360-degree spins that send spray flying.

Take in views of the Remarkables range and the surrounding landscape, with plenty of photo opportunities as you zip across the water.

Throughout the ride, your expert driver shares local insights, adding context and stories to the journey.

Life vests are provided for all passengers, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for every age group.

Wrapping up

Your jet boat ride returns to the original departure point at Steamer Wharf, where you can continue exploring Queenstown or relax by the lakeside.

What to bring

Bring a printed or mobile voucher to present on the day of your experience.

Wear warm clothing and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable during the ride.

Choose casual footwear suitable for getting wet.

Bring sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun while on the water.

What's not allowed

This experience is not suitable for participants who are pregnant or have neck or back injuries.

Additional information

Please check in at Thunder Jet Queenstown, Watersports Kiosk, Steamer Wharf Beach Street, Queenstown 9300, at least 15 minutes before your booked time.

The minimum age for this experience is two years old, and the minimum weight required is 13kg.

Children must be accompanied by a paying adult during the ride.

The duration of the jet boat ride is 30 minutes.

Changes to your booking can be made up to 24 hours before the start time; changes are not permitted within 24 hours of your experience.

Late arrivals or no-shows may result in you forfeiting your experience.

Confirmation will be provided in the form of a tour voucher at the time of booking, and both printed and mobile vouchers are accepted.

Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.

Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.

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