Sharp left turn in canyon
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Shotover Jet

4.8
·6k reviews·Queenstown, New Zealand

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Sunlight on canyon walls

CrowdMedium
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Sharp left turn in canyon

Shotover Jet

Best Time

Afternoons

Sunlight on canyon walls

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(6k reviews)

"It's an absolutely wild ride that takes you just inches from canyon walls and drivers that spin the boat 360 degrees MULTIPLE TIMES! Instagram"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canyon Thrills

Canyon Thrills

Shotover River Canyons

Experience heart-pounding speeds and 360° spins inches from dramatic canyon walls.

TikTokInstagram
Signature 360° Spins

Signature 360° Spins

Shotover River

Feel the adrenaline rush as the boat pivots in tight spaces, sending spray flying.

Instagram+1
Scenic River Cruise

Scenic River Cruise

Shotover River

Beyond the thrills, admire the stunning natural beauty of the Shotover River and its canyons.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Thrills

Shotover Jet is a must-do in Queenstown, but it's popular! Booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. TikTokReddit

Dress for the Splash Zone

Prepare to get wet! While the drivers are skilled, the jet boat experience involves spraying water. Wear waterproof clothing, or be ready to embrace the chill. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Sunlight on canyon walls
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter
Why
Unique chilly thrill
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@Shotover Canyon Swing #queenstown #shotovercanyonswing #newzealand #fyp #funnyvideo
@tayahhlouise
820.2K likes • 9M views

🎯 Book Online in Advance

Secure your spot for this popular Queenstown adventure by booking tickets online. TikTokReddit :ticket:

🧥 Dress Warm & Waterproof

Expect to get wet! Waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essential. InstagramReddit :coat:

If it doesn’t look like this, it’s not Shotover Jet 😉 📸 @itsamarniiii IG #shotoverjet #queenstown #fyp #jetboating #hotlines #gta5
@shotoverjetnz
226.3K likes • 1.8M views
If it doesn’t look like this… it’s not Shotover Jet 😉 Join us for exclusive access to the Shotover Canyons! 📸 @itsarmarniiii and Thomas onboard with Nick 🙌 #shotoverjet #queenstown #queenstownlive #newzealand #jetboating #canyonaction #adrenaline #travel #gopro #pov
shotoverjetnz
3.9K likes • 250.2K views

📱 Capture the Action

Many boats offer GoPro mounts. Consider bringing your own waterproof phone case. Instagram :iphone:

🤝 Trust Your Driver

Helmsmen are highly skilled professionals who ensure a safe yet thrilling ride. Reddit :star:

‘🚤개인적으로 제일 재밌었던 액티비티!!‘ 🇳🇿뉴질랜드 허니문 시리즈 11편 개인적으로 뉴질랜드에서 했던 액티비티중에 제일 재미있던 ‘Shotover Jet’ 에메랄드빛 뉴질랜드 계곡을 엄청난 속도로 달리는 보트 체험이에요!!! 진짜 그 스릴과 속도감은… 타는 내내 최고!! 제 개인경험으로는 제일 재미있었어서요!!! 🤙샷오버 제트 보트!! ✔️2인 NZD $278(*한화226,385원) ✔️계곡위에서 달리는 속도감 최고!! ✔️진짜 짜릿하고 너무 즐거워요!! ✔️속도감이 미쳤음!!! ✔️개인취향 기준으로는 1등이었음! Personally, among the activities we did in New Zealand, The most fun "Shot over Jet". The emerald-col...
_dino_pic
1.1M likes • 27.4M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Online in Advance

Secure your spot for this popular Queenstown adventure by booking tickets online. TikTokReddit :ticket:

🧥 Dress Warm & Waterproof

Expect to get wet! Waterproof layers, warm clothing, and sunglasses are essential. InstagramReddit :coat:

📱 Capture the Action

Many boats offer GoPro mounts. Consider bringing your own waterproof phone case. Instagram :iphone:

🤝 Trust Your Driver

Helmsmen are highly skilled professionals who ensure a safe yet thrilling ride. Reddit :star:

💰 Compare Jet Boat Options

Shotover Jet is iconic, but other Queenstown operators offer different experiences and price points. Reddit :moneywithwings:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(6k reviews)

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

Exhilarating 360° spins
Stunning canyon scenery
Skilled and professional drivers

What People Dislike

Can be pricey

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at the Shotover Jet base, which is helpful if you're driving yourself. TikTok

Many visitors combine Shotover Jet with other Queenstown adventures. It's a great way to pack in thrills on a single day. TikTok

Queenstown is accessible by air with a domestic airport. Once in Queenstown, Shotover Jet is a short drive or shuttle ride away. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Your ticket typically includes the 25-minute jet boat ride, life jacket, and sometimes a shuttle service from Queenstown. Instagram

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. Instagram

Keep an eye out for special deals or package offers, especially if you're booking multiple activities in Queenstown. Reddit

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram+1

Wear warm, waterproof clothing. You will get wet from the spray. Sunglasses are a must, and gloves can be helpful in colder months. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's highly likely you will get wet from the spray and the boat's maneuvers. Embrace it for the full experience! Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

It's advisable to eat a light meal before your ride. Avoid heavy meals right before the intense experience. Instagram

Queenstown town center, a short drive away, boasts a wide array of restaurants, from casual cafes to fine dining. TikTok

Queenstown has a diverse culinary scene, so you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options in the town center. TikTok

It's generally best to consume your own food and drinks before or after your ride, as they are not permitted on the boat. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Due to the high speeds and water spray, personal cameras and phones are typically not allowed on the boat for safety reasons. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

Yes, Shotover Jet often offers professional photo and video packages for purchase, allowing you to relive the thrill. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in New Zealand, especially around popular attractions. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shotover Jet offers an exciting adventure that many families can enjoy together. The 25-minute ride provides thrills with its high speeds and spins, but the skilled drivers ensure a safe experience. Reddit It's a fantastic way to introduce children to adventure activities in a controlled environment. Remember to dress everyone in warm, waterproof clothing, as getting splashed is part of the fun! InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

While Shotover Jet is an iconic experience, it's priced at the higher end for jet boating in Queenstown, around $169 NZD. Reddit For budget-conscious travelers, consider KJet or RealNZ, which offer shorter rides or different routes at a lower price point. Reddit However, if the unique canyon access of Shotover Jet is a priority, booking in advance and looking for potential package deals might help manage costs. TikTok

❤️ Couples Seeking Adventure

Shotover Jet is a perfect activity for couples looking for a shared adrenaline rush. The thrilling 360° spins and high-speed maneuvers through the canyons create unforgettable memories. Instagram+1 Holding on tight together as you speed through the water and spray is a bonding experience. Instagram Consider booking a joint ride for a fun and exciting date in Queenstown. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Jet Boating

Shotover Jet is renowned for its exhilarating jet boat experience, a staple of Queenstown adventure tourism. The boats are powered by twin V8 engines, allowing them to reach speeds of up to 85 km/h. Instagram The unique design of the jet boat enables it to perform dramatic 360-degree spins, often with only inches to spare from the canyon walls. Instagram+1 This maneuver is a signature element that leaves riders screaming and soaked. Instagram+1

The ride takes you through the narrow and majestic Shotover River Canyons, a breathtaking natural landscape. TikTok 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. Reddit

Travelers consistently describe the experience as 'exhilarating,' 'adrenaline pumping,' and 'once in a lifetime.' Reddit The skill of the helmsmen is frequently praised, instilling confidence even during the most intense maneuvers. Reddit

Navigating Queenstown's Adventure Scene

Queenstown is globally recognized as the adventure capital of New Zealand, and Shotover Jet is a prime example of why. When considering jet boating, Shotover Jet is often compared to other operators like Skippers Canyon Jet and KJet. Reddit While each offers a unique experience, Shotover Jet is celebrated for its exclusive access to the dramatic Shotover Canyons. Instagram

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. Instagram+1 It's a popular choice for those seeking an accessible yet intense adrenaline rush. Reddit

When planning your Queenstown adventure, it's wise to book popular activities like Shotover Jet in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. TikTokReddit Consider the weather and dress appropriately, as getting wet is part of the fun! InstagramReddit

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