Shotover Jet

Experience the raw power of the Shotover River as you skim inches from treacherous rock faces, feeling the adrenaline of gravity-defying maneuvers in one of the world’s most dramatic alpine canyons.

What to expect

The Shotover Jet experience is defined by precision driving through the narrow, jagged schist walls of the Shotover River canyons. Once you board the custom-built, twin-engine jet boat, your pilot will accelerate to speeds of up to 85km/h. The sensation is one of extreme proximity; you will frequently feel as though the boat is about to scrape the canyon walls.

The highlight of every trip is the series of trademark 360-degree spins, where the boat pivots on a dime in water often less than 10 centimeters deep. Expect a sensory overload: the roar of the V8 engines, the mist of glacial water, and the sharp pull of centrifugal force. If you are seeking the maximum "splash factor," request an outside seat, as these riders bear the brunt of the water intake during high-speed turns.

History & significance

Launched in 1965, Shotover Jet is the pioneer of the commercial jet boating industry. Its inception dates back to the ingenuity of kiwi engineers who adapted jet propulsion technology—originally designed for aircraft—to navigate the shallow, braided, and rock-strewn rivers of the Otago region. Over the decades, it has evolved from a local thrill ride into a global icon for adventure tourism, remaining the only company permitted to operate within the spectacular Shotover River Canyon itself.

Practical tips

• Operating Hours: Boats typically run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week, though departures are weather-dependent.
• Bookings: Pre-booking is essential, especially during the peak summer months (December–February) and school holidays.
• Best Time: Aim for the first morning slot (9:00 AM). The light is exceptional for photos in the canyon, the water is calmer, and you beat the midday tour bus crowds.
• Preparation: You will be provided with a life jacket and a spray jacket. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the high-speed wind and water spray. Storage lockers are available on-site for bags and loose items.

Getting there

The launch base is located at 3 Bridge Road, Arthur’s Point. It is approximately a 10-minute drive from downtown Queenstown. If you are not renting a car, the operator provides a complimentary shuttle service that departs regularly from the "Queenstown Information Centre" (the Station Building at the corner of Shotover and Camp Streets).

Nearby

• Cargo at Gantley’s: Located just up the hill from the jet boat base, this is a local favorite for wood-fired pizzas and craft beers, housed in an atmospheric 1860s stone building.
• Queenstown Trail: If you prefer a slower pace, you can access the Arthur’s Point section of the extensive Queenstown Trail network nearby for a scenic walk along the river banks, offering great vantage points to watch the boats pass through the canyon below.