Shotover River Jet Boat: Queenstown’s Ultimate Ride (2025 Review)

If you are very keen for an experience that, like, gets your pulse properly racing, the Shotover River Jet Boat in Queenstown very much might be just what you’re seeking. The 2025 season looks set to be another wild one, so, like, let’s examine what makes this ride something worth considering and how to, maybe, get the most from your adventure.

Why the Shotover Jet is an Absolute Must-Do

It’s almost legendary, is that not so? The Shotover Jet boasts a rich history, actually, originating way back in the early 1970s. It wasn’t really just some simple amusement, but rather, it was developed by a certain Sir William Hamilton – so, yeah, of the very same Hamilton Jet fame! – so, actually, to navigate shallow rivers. Can you imagine? Like, it very soon transformed, literally, into the adrenaline pumping tourist attraction it seems to be nowadays. People come from far and wide to, like, hurtle through narrow canyons, feeling very much the icy spray of the Shotover River.

That stunning appeal isn’t just for the speed. Like, anyone can make something fast. It’s arguably, really, the tight turns, very near misses with jagged rocks, and very dramatic scenery that elevates the Shotover Jet experience to something so unforgettable. It’s more or less a complete sensory overload, very much, frankly, delivering thrills unlike pretty much any other, while still being something many average people might feel confident experiencing. The sheer skill shown by those pilots, too, adds, kind of, another level of appreciation.

Read our full review: Shotover River Jet Boat Full Review and Details

What To Expect on Your Ride

Right from the very instant you arrive, the adrenaline starts, almost, pumping, as I was saying. You get geared up with a life jacket, just a little preparation, and there’s a definite buzz in the air, kind of. The drivers usually, like, give a quick safety briefing – so, you know, the kind that gets, like, maybe a nervous giggle or two. Then, basically, it’s time to board.

And then everything changes completely, is that so? As soon as the jet boat hits open water, that thing’s accelerating. Expect to very suddenly find yourself hurtling at breathtaking speeds – possibly as high as 85 km/h – through those really dramatically narrow canyons. The skilled pilot throws the boat into, you know, breathtakingly sharp turns, seemingly skirting within mere inches of craggy rock faces. It’s all actually really spectacular stuff, obviously, as you cling on, trying not to completely lose your lunch. Those 360 degree spins are quite likely to leave you, really, breathless and quite possibly rather damp. Be prepared for a total drenching – very much depending on where you’re sitting and that pilot’s particular mood – which only adds to that fun. Arguably!

Best Time to Go and What to Bring

Actually, picking that right time, it tends to make such a big difference to your overall enjoyment. Like, for pretty reliable weather, that’s pretty much during the New Zealand summer, which runs from, like, December to February. Now, like, you’ll possibly face, kind of, slightly bigger crowds then, yet it’s pretty much worth it, arguably, for sunny skies and reasonably warm temperatures. Those shoulder seasons – so, you know, springtime (September-November) and autumn (March-May) – actually, offer a, a little less crowded alternative, like, and the scenery, arguably, just a little beautiful. Is that not right?

In terms of that, like, what to bring, the company kind of provides those life jackets. You’ll pretty much want to dress, you know, in layers, especially, like, outside summertime. Even on warmer days, you may still want to have something of a waterproof jacket on, mostly, just to keep the chill away. Also, like, you know you aren’t going to take bags? You probably should be. Secure any loose belongings and prepare to perhaps, kind of, purchase any photos or videos that the company seems to be snapping. Oh! Like, don’t forget that sunscreen, either – the sun reflects a heck of a lot off the water.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Ride

Okay, so, like, let’s very quickly share some secrets, is that the term? Firstly, consider booking that experience well ahead. And, in that case, I would definitely not like, skip that – mostly to actually, secure your spot. Especially if travelling over, like, peak season. If you do actually, like, have particular seating preferences, see if you’re kind of able to request it – I feel like up close means extra spray! Are you up for that?

Be ready, though, like, to embrace a thorough soaking. Seating might influence it somewhat, as I was saying, like, however prepare to get rather wet! Listen carefully to those safety instructions and keep that grip, which seems pretty obvious but gets overlooked more than it seems! Most importantly, like, don’t forget to, I think, just properly appreciate that spectacular scenery all around you. Okay, so it’s quite often difficult when everything goes really fast. And yeah, you’re very likely holding on for dear life, yet just take little glimpses around. That canyon truly offers up sights you absolutely will not forget.

Is It Right For You? Considering Safety and Comfort

Now then, arguably this is what seems a significant query. And actually, like, the Shotover Jet seems immensely popular. Still, like, it’s undeniably something of an adventure. Is that clear enough? People of reasonable fitness should basically cope alright, but those with neck, like, or back problems probably should carefully think it through.

Operators tend to prioritize your safety, so it’s actually worth paying extra close heed to that advice before boarding, definitely. Check the official website too it’s almost a smart call, seeing just what regulations are in force and also like, weight, size and, like, also age restrictions and so forth that can vary from season to season. Weigh up carefully any risks given current personal medical stuff and only then go right ahead with that reservation. By the way, in reality this activity seems much safer than it looks!

See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Shotover River Jet Boat Ride)