Queenstown Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Experience

Board a jet boat on the Shotover River
just outside Queenstown

The experience starts at the Shotover Jet River Base in Arthurs Point, less than a 10-minute drive from Queenstown. You can choose between going to the River Base yourself or an option with return transport from central Queenstown. After a safety briefing, put on your life jacket and board the boat with your experienced driver.

Race through the narrow Shotover Canyons

Your driver skillfully guides the jet boat between the narrow rock walls of the Shotover Canyons, over shallow water and rapids. Speeding past the canyon walls at up to 90 km/h, you can take in the scenery of the Shotover River along with the thrill.

Experience the iconic 360-degree spins

Hold on tight for the 360-degree spins during the ride. Between the thrills, your driver shares stories in English about local history, geological features and Māori culture. In winter, the handrails are heated.

Return to the base after a 25-minute ride

After about 25 minutes on the river, you return to the jet boat base. The base has a café, restrooms, lockers and a viewing area, and parking is free. If you chose the return transport option, relax on the shuttle bus back to Queenstown. Photos and videos of your ride can be purchased on site, subject to availability.

※ When the river is high, the minimum height requirement may increase to 120 cm.