Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride
About This Experience
Take an exhilarating 1-hour Jet boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and head down the Shotover and Kawarau rivers. Get an adrenaline rush as you take 360° spins and travel at high speed through the river.
Highlights
- Embark on a thrilling high speed Jet boat ride with 360-degree spins
- Speed across Lake Wakatipu and the Shotover and Kawarau rivers
- Benefit from a convenient departure point in the heart of Queenstown
- Enjoy a perfect all-weather activity with heated handrails
- Experience an adrenaline rush on a Kiwi owned and operated Jet boat
What's Included
- ✓ 1-hour jet boat ride covering 45 kilometres of lake and river
- ✓ Safety briefing before boarding
- ✓ Life jacket, in sizes up to 4XL
- ✓ Heated handrails, so the boat runs through the winter
- ✓ Departure from Main Town Pier in central Queenstown
- ✓ Optional pickup from Frankton Marina and lakefront hotels, by prior arrangement
Not Included
- Photos and videos (available for purchase)
What to Bring
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Camera
- Sunscreen
- Gloves
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Goggles
Good to Know & Caveats
- The jet boats rides operate rain or shine, 365 days a year
- Stay warm during the winter months with heated handrails
- You are welcome to bring your own camera or GoPro. Be sure to hold it tight
- There are no height restrictions
- The minimum age is 2 years old, but children must be able to fit into the smallest life jacket
- Dress for the weather conditions, and remember that you will be travelling at high speeds
- There is no weight restriction to ride but you must be able to fit into one of the life jackets, with a maximum size of 4XL
- Pickup can be arranged from Frankton Marina and various lakefront hotels with prior arrangement (subject to availability)
Not Suitable For
- Children under 2 years
- Pregnant women
Meeting Point
Board the boat at Main Town Pier, Marine Parade, Queenstown.
What Travelers Say
Rated 4.8/5 by 1,987 verified GetYourGuide travelers.
absolutely brilliant, very safe and fun. a must do when in Queenstown
— Charanjit, September 5, 2026
AMAZING!!!!! I would give them 100 stars if I could!
— Daniuska, September 10, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Shotover River in Queenstown is an absolutely breathtaking experience! Surrounded by stunning mountains, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic landscapes, it's a perfect place to enjoy nature's beauty. The powerful river and spectacular scenery make it a must-visit destination. Whether enjoying a thrilling jet boat ride or simply admiring the views, Shotover River creates unforgettable memories. One of the true highlights of our New Zealand trip!
— Robert, September 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the KJet ride and how far does it go?
One hour on the water, covering about 45 kilometres. That makes it the longer of the two central-Queenstown rides: it takes in Lake Wakatipu plus stretches of both the Shotover and the Kawarau, rather than one canyon.
Where does KJet depart from?
The Main Town Pier on Marine Parade, in the middle of Queenstown, so no transfer is needed. Pickup from Frankton Marina and some lakefront hotels can be arranged in advance, subject to availability.
Is there a minimum age or height?
There is no height restriction. The minimum age is two years, and a child must be able to fit the smallest life jacket. There is no weight limit as such, but you need to fit a life jacket, the largest being 4XL.
Does it run in bad weather?
The operator runs rain or shine, 365 days a year, and fits heated handrails for the winter months. Dress for the conditions and remember you are travelling at speed.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes. You are welcome to bring your own camera or GoPro, with the obvious caveat that you need to hold it tightly. Photos and videos of the trip are also sold at the pier afterwards.
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 Extreme Jet Boat Experience
Queenstown: Shotover River Whitewater Rafting Trip
From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride
