Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride
About This Experience
KJet is the ride you can walk to. The boat boards at the Main Town Pier on Marine Parade, in the middle of Queenstown, so there is nothing to drive to and no transfer to arrange. It also holds the largest review count of any jet boat in this catalogue, at 1,987, which is a reasonable proxy for how many people take the easy option.
The trip runs an hour and covers about 45 kilometres, which is the widest range of any jet boat ride here. It starts across Lake Wakatipu with the Remarkables in view, turns into the Kawarau River past rocks and under bridges, then works up the shallow channels of the Shotover. The operator quotes speeds of up to 95 km/h and 360-degree spins on both rivers, and describes itself as the world's first commercial jet boat company.
That range is the trade against the Shotover Jet. An hour spread over a lake and two river mouths is a scenic ride with spins in it; twenty-five minutes inside the Shotover canyons is a narrower, more enclosed one. Neither is a longer version of the other, and the choice is mostly about whether you want the canyon walls or the distance.
The practical details are friendlier than the canyon run's. There is no height restriction, the minimum age is two provided the child fits the smallest life jacket, and jackets go up to 4XL. The handrails are heated so the boat runs through winter, and pickup from Frankton Marina and some lakefront hotels can be arranged in advance, subject to availability. Large bags and luggage cannot come aboard.
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 does KJet compare with the Shotover Jet?
KJet is an hour long, costs less, leaves from the town pier and covers a lake and two rivers. The Shotover Jet is 25 minutes, costs more, leaves from Arthurs Point and runs inside the Shotover canyons. KJet is the broader scenic ride; the Shotover Jet is the enclosed canyon one.
Where does the boat leave from?
The Main Town Pier on Marine Parade, in central Queenstown, so most visitors can walk to it. Pickup from Frankton Marina and various lakefront hotels can be arranged beforehand, subject to availability.
Is there a minimum age or height?
There is no height restriction. The minimum age is two years old, with the condition that the child can fit into the smallest life jacket. There is no weight limit either, provided you fit a jacket, with 4XL the largest size carried. The ride is listed as unsuitable for pregnant women.
Does it run in winter?
The operator states the boats run rain or shine, 365 days a year, and the handrails are heated for the colder months. Dress for the conditions and remember you will be moving at speed, which makes it feel colder than standing on the pier does.
Can I take a camera?
Yes. You are welcome to bring your own camera or GoPro, with the operator's own caveat that you hold it tight. Luggage and large bags are not permitted on board. Photos and videos of the trip are available to buy afterwards.
Other Rides on This River
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
