From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride
About This Experience
Experience breathtaking scenery, Lord of the Rings locations, the Skippers Road and the adrenaline pumping jet boat ride through the most dramatic canyons of the Shotover River.
Highlights
- Experience the stunning scenery of Skippers Canyon
- Travel the infamous Skippers Canyon Road - where no rental car is insured
- Jet through the narrowest canyons on the famous Shotover River
- Discover a land rich in gold mining history, where getting into the canyon is half the adventure
- Ride the upper Shotover for 30 minutes at over 80 km/h, with full 360-degree spins
- Stop at the historic Pipeline Bungy for a break and views down the canyon
What's Included
- ✓ Return transport from central Queenstown
- ✓ Guided tour into Skippers Canyon
- ✓ Informative commentary from knowledgeable bus driver
- ✓ 30-minute jet boat ride on the upper Shotover River
- ✓ Spectacular scenery and photo opportunities
- ✓ Life jackets and spray jackets (gloves in winter)
Not Included
- Meals and drinks
- Photo or video packages (available for purchase on the day)
Good to Know & Caveats
- This is a true backcountry experience and getting there is half the fun!
- It is recommended to use the toilet prior to departing Queenstown as there will not be an opportunity to do so on the tour
- Dress for the conditions on the day, wear warm clothing and bring a hat, sunglasses, camera, insect repellent and water
- Minimum age requirement is 3 years for children
- Tour is suitable for all ages as long as mobility is not a problem
- Please advise the local operator if you have any medical conditions, back problems or are pregnant
Not Suitable For
- People with back problems
Meeting Point
Meet on the Camp Street side of the Station Building near Marmolada Cafe. Wait outside by the wooden benches next to the bus stop.
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.9/5 by 787 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
Amazing experience! Far beyond what we had planned for and really felt worth the money as the journey there is an adventure in itself.
— Ben, September 21, 2026
Awesome experience from pick up to drop off. Couldn't have asked for a better tour guide or jet boat driver. Highly recommend for their local historical knowledge! Fabulous well run family business ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
— Simone, September 23, 2026
it was an amazing experience with beautiful viesse and great stories from our guide!! and the jet boat is awesome!!
— Kelly, July 22, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of the three hours is actually on the boat?
About 30 minutes. The rest is the drive: a guided run down Skippers Road into the canyon with commentary, a stop at the Pipeline Bungy for the views, and roughly 45 minutes back to Queenstown. The road is a large part of what you are paying for.
Why can I not just drive myself to Skippers Canyon?
Skippers Road was cut into the rock face by gold miners more than 130 years ago and is narrow, unsealed and exposed. Rental car insurance does not cover it, which is why return transport from central Queenstown is included in this trip.
Where do I meet the bus?
On the Camp Street side of the Station Building, near Marmolada Cafe, by the wooden benches next to the bus stop. The operator recommends using the toilet before departure, as there is no opportunity to do so on the way.
How does the jet boating compare with the lower Shotover?
This one runs the upper river inside Skippers Canyon, where the walls are at their narrowest, at speeds the operator puts above 80 km/h with full 360-degree spins. It is a longer day and a remoter setting than the 25-minute canyon run at Arthurs Point.
Is it suitable for children and older travellers?
The minimum age is three, and the operator describes the trip as suitable for all ages provided mobility is not a problem. Tell the operator in advance about any medical condition, back problem or pregnancy. Life jackets and spray jackets are provided, with gloves in winter.
Other Rides on These Rivers
From Queenstown: Dart River Canoe & Jet Boat Day Trip
From Queenstown: Dart River Wilderness Jet Boat Experience
Queenstown: Hydro Attack Shark Ride
Queenstown: Kawarau River Rafting and Jet Boat Ride
Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride
Queenstown: Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Experience
Queenstown: Shotover River Whitewater Rafting Trip
