
Shotover Jet
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush on Shotover Jet, blasting through narrow canyons at 85km/h with thrilling 360° spins.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunlight on canyon walls

Shotover Jet
Best Time
Sunlight on canyon walls

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush on Shotover Jet, blasting through narrow canyons at 85km/h with thrilling 360° spins.
"It's an absolutely wild ride that takes you just inches from canyon walls and drivers that spin the boat 360 degrees MULTIPLE TIMES!
"
🎯 Book Online in Advance
Secure your spot for this popular Queenstown adventure by booking tickets online. :ticket:
🧥 Dress Warm & Waterproof
Expect to get wet! Waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essential. :coat:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canyon Thrills
Shotover River Canyons
Experience heart-pounding speeds and 360° spins inches from dramatic canyon walls.

Signature 360° Spins
Shotover River
Feel the adrenaline rush as the boat pivots in tight spaces, sending spray flying.

Scenic River Cruise
Shotover River
Beyond the thrills, admire the stunning natural beauty of the Shotover River and its canyons.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Thrills
Dress for the Splash Zone
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Online in Advance
Secure your spot for this popular Queenstown adventure by booking tickets online.
:ticket:🧥 Dress Warm & Waterproof
Expect to get wet! Waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essential.
:coat:📱 Capture the Action
Many boats offer GoPro mounts. Consider bringing your own waterproof phone case.
:iphone:🤝 Trust Your Driver
Helmsmen are highly skilled professionals who ensure a safe yet thrilling ride.
:star:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Online in Advance
Secure your spot for this popular Queenstown adventure by booking tickets online.
:ticket:🧥 Dress Warm & Waterproof
Expect to get wet! Waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essential.
:coat:📱 Capture the Action
Many boats offer GoPro mounts. Consider bringing your own waterproof phone case.
:iphone:🤝 Trust Your Driver
Helmsmen are highly skilled professionals who ensure a safe yet thrilling ride.
:star:💰 Compare Jet Boat Options
Shotover Jet is iconic, but other Queenstown operators offer different experiences and price points.
:moneywithwings:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shotover Jet is widely praised as an exhilarating, once-in-a-lifetime experience, with riders consistently highlighting the thrilling 360° spins and the stunning canyon scenery. The professionalism and skill of the drivers are frequently commended, ensuring a safe yet adrenaline-pumping ride. While it's a popular choice, some may find it a bit pricey compared to other jet boat options in Queenstown.
"Great experience! other jet activities might be cheaper, but this one goes deep into the river, very close to the gorge that gives you a complete different vibe, you get to enjoy the majesty of to he mountains and an adrenaline rush. Our driver Paul, was awesome - skilled, safe and all round really nice guy! Thoroughly recommend this experience!"
Tim Growe
"Shotover Jet in Queenstown was such an incredible experience! From the moment we got on the boat, the excitement kicked in. The speed, the spins, and getting so close to the canyon walls made it such a thrill ride—it kept us smiling (and screaming) the whole time. The staff were friendly, professional, and made sure everything felt safe while still being packed with fun. Definitely a must-do in Queenstown if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush!"
Maitri Patel
"Riders zoom through narrow canyon walls, skim over shallow water, and endure rapid high speed maneuvers and signature 360° spins.
The ride is widely described as exhilarating, adrenaline pumping, and once in a lifetime by traveler.
It runs through the famous Shotover River Canyons, offering an intense 25 minute jet boat thrill ride at speeds up to 85 km/h and dramatic 360° spins in as little as 10 cm of water.
Our Helmsman was super professional and and amazing person. Really friendly. You will straight trust his professionalism and won't get scared at all.
Worth going place. We have done it in the winter. Even in the winter there is plenty of fun🎉🎊🎉🎊"
beautiful “Coco Moo” Victoria
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shotover Jet is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Queenstown. They offer a shuttle service from their downtown Queenstown booking office, making it easy to access.
Yes, there is parking available at the Shotover Jet base, which is helpful if you're driving yourself.
Many visitors combine Shotover Jet with other Queenstown adventures. It's a great way to pack in thrills on a single day.
Queenstown is accessible by air with a domestic airport. Once in Queenstown, Shotover Jet is a short drive or shuttle ride away.
While generally accessible, it's always best to check Shotover Jet's official website for the most up-to-date information on health and safety guidelines.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, but expect to pay around $169 NZD per person for the standard Shotover Jet experience. Booking online in advance is often recommended.
You can purchase tickets directly from the Shotover Jet website, or through various tour operators and booking platforms in Queenstown. Booking online is highly recommended.
Your ticket typically includes the 25-minute jet boat ride, life jacket, and sometimes a shuttle service from Queenstown.
Policies can vary, but most adventure operators have provisions for weather-related cancellations. It's best to check the specific terms and conditions when booking.
Keep an eye out for special deals or package offers, especially if you're booking multiple activities in Queenstown.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The thrilling jet boat ride itself lasts approximately 25 minutes, but factor in time for check-in, safety briefings, and getting geared up.
Wear warm, waterproof clothing. You will get wet from the spray. Sunglasses are a must, and gloves can be helpful in colder months.
Yes, it's highly likely you will get wet from the spray and the boat's maneuvers. Embrace it for the full experience!
It's an adrenaline-pumping experience with high speeds and spins, but the drivers are highly skilled and ensure safety. Many find it exhilarating rather than terrifying.
Personal cameras and phones are generally not allowed on the boat due to the risk of water damage. However, many boats have GoPro mounts, and professional photos/videos are often available for purchase.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While Shotover Jet focuses on the thrill ride, there are usually facilities at their base for purchasing snacks or drinks. For full meals, Queenstown town center offers numerous options.
It's advisable to eat a light meal before your ride. Avoid heavy meals right before the intense experience.
Queenstown town center, a short drive away, boasts a wide array of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining.
Queenstown has a diverse culinary scene, so you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in the town center.
It's generally best to consume your own food and drinks before or after your ride, as they are not permitted on the boat.
📸 📸 Photography
Due to the high speeds and water spray, personal cameras and phones are typically not allowed on the boat for safety reasons.
You can capture great shots from the viewing areas at the Shotover Jet base as boats perform their spins. The surrounding canyon landscape also offers stunning photographic opportunities.
Yes, Shotover Jet often offers professional photo and video packages for purchase, allowing you to relive the thrill.
For the canyon scenery, a wide-angle lens is ideal. If you're looking to capture the action from the banks, a telephoto lens might be useful.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in New Zealand, especially around popular attractions. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the ride is exhilarating, it's important to note that younger children might find the intensity overwhelming. Always check the operator's guidelines for age recommendations. The stunning canyon scenery also provides a visual treat for all ages.
💰 Budget Travelers
❤️ Couples Seeking Adventure
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Jet Boating
The ride takes you through the narrow and majestic Shotover River Canyons, a breathtaking natural landscape. While the primary focus is adrenaline, the drivers also provide commentary, sharing insights into the area's history and geology, offering moments to appreciate the stunning scenery between the high-speed action.
Travelers consistently describe the experience as 'exhilarating,' 'adrenaline pumping,' and 'once in a lifetime.' The skill of the helmsmen is frequently praised, instilling confidence even during the most intense maneuvers.
Navigating Queenstown's Adventure Scene
Many visitors find that Shotover Jet offers a perfect balance of thrill and scenic beauty. The 25-minute ride is long enough to be memorable but short enough to fit into a busy itinerary. It's a popular choice for those seeking an accessible yet intense adrenaline rush.
When planning your Queenstown adventure, it's wise to book popular activities like Shotover Jet in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. Consider the weather and dress appropriately, as getting wet is part of the fun!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit