Duration
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Transfers available
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The Shotover Canyons jet boat ride is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering high-speed action, sharp turns, and epic 360° spins through narrow canyons.
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Skim just inches from towering canyon walls at 90km/h as your expert driver navigates the twisting Shotover River, the only jet boat allowed in these canyons.
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Speed through dramatic gorges and past towering rock formations, with the turquoise waters of the Kawarau River churning beneath you at exhilarating speeds.
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Opt for round-trip transfers from Queenstown for a hassle-free experience. Just sit back, relax, and get ready for the ride of your life.
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Fun fact: The Māori name for the Shotover River, Kimi-ākau, means ‘looking for the coast,’ a nod to early explorers searching for a route westward.
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25-minute jet boat ride on the Shotover River
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High-speed adventure with 360-degree spins
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Life jackets
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Complimentary round-trip transfers from Queenstown (based on selected option)
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You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
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Feb 2026Verified booking
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Race through the Shotover River canyons on a 25-minute jet boat ride packed with high-speed spins and thrilling rapids.
Getting started
Arrive at the designated jet boat base near the Shotover River, where staff will check your booking and provide a quick safety briefing. Secure your belongings, gear up, and get ready to board the jet boat with your group.
What to expect
The Shotover River is renowned for its narrow canyons and fast-flowing waters, offering one of Queenstown’s most iconic adventure experiences. This river has carved dramatic rock formations over thousands of years, creating a natural playground for high-speed water adventures.
Features
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Jet boat ride: Glide at high speeds through the river’s tight canyons, with expert drivers navigating sharp turns and shallow waters.
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360-degree spins: Experience the excitement of full-circle spins, a signature move that delivers an instant adrenaline rush.
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Scenic canyon views: Take in the unique geology and rugged beauty of the Shotover River’s rock walls as you zip past.
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Optional Queenstown transfers: Choose the transfer upgrade for seamless roundtrip transport from central Queenstown, adding extra convenience to your adventure.
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What to bring
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Bring comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and weather conditions.
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It is recommended to bring a change of clothes as you may get wet during the ride.
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Wear secure, closed-toe footwear.
What’s not allowed
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Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the boat.
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Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited before and during the ride.
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Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
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Children under 5 years old are not allowed to participate in this experience.
Accessibility
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This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
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Pregnant people and guests with back issues, cardiac issues, and other serious medical conditions cannot participate in the experience.
Additional information
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Guests should have a moderate physical fitness level.
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If you've opted for Queenstown transfers, arrive at The Station Building 45 minutes before your jet boat departure time. Your selected time is for the jet boat ride. The transfer takes approximately 10 minutes each way. Total experience duration will be 1 hour 45 minutes, including return transfers.
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Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
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All safety equipment and life jackets will be provided.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption/pick-up point.
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Please arrive at the redemption/pick-up point 45 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.
Ticket redemption point
- Please check your final voucher for the redemption/pick-up point details and specific instructions.
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