Taking you the greatest distance down spectacular Kawarau River
Jetting you through a theatre of New Zealand’s most stunning landscapes. Thunder Jet Queenstown delivers an epic combo of speed, iconic 360º spins and breathtaking scenery.
You can choose from a high-speed thrill ride packed into 30 minutes, or our 60-minute trip taking you the greatest distance down the Kawarau River.
Thunder drivers are a fine blend of personality, skill and professionalism with their own personalised commentary. A true kiwi experience, and a must-do activity on the Queenstown agenda!
Fun Facts:
Jetboating is a homegrown Kiwi invention. New Zealand's landscapes are home to many shallow waterways that are inaccessible to boats with propellers. The modern-day jet boat was developed by Sir William Hamilton (often referred to as Bill Hamilton) in 1954. He came up with the idea of using a jet of water to propel a boat forward while on a fishing trip with his father. His design was remarkably successful and revolutionised boating in New Zealand, transforming fast-flowing, shallow rivers into thrilling adventures waiting to be explored.
Inclusions
Highlights
- 360 degree spins
- Reach speeds of 95km per hour
- Personalised commentary
- Onboard sound system - The only Jetboat company to offer this
- 60 minute trip - Travels up through Frankton, the Frankton arm to the Kawarau River and up to just before the Bungy Bridge
- 30 minute trip - Travels up to Fisherman's Hole/ just past the dam
Time
- Thunder 30 - 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm
- Thunder 60 - 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm
Duration
- You can choose either a 60 minute or a 30-minute Jet Boat ride if you don’t fancy the full hour. Please ask your customers to check in 15 minutes prior to arrival. You should allow 1 hour 15 mins for the full experience and 45 minutes for the 30 minutes trip.
- 47km round trip from untouched wilderness to historic gold-mining sites. Thrilling 360° spins, expert local commentary, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.
Departure Location
- We operate from the Watersports Kiosk on Steamer Wharf, Beach Street along the Queenstown waterfront
What To Bring
*Autumn/Winter: Dress like you're hitting the slopes! They might get wet, so bring: beanie, spray/waterproof jacket, thick jumper/coat/windproof jacket, gloves, sunglasses, buff/scarf, personal medication - asthma, allergies
*Spring/Summer: There can still be a chill so ensure layers, sunglasses and spray/waterproof jacket
Additional Information
- We travel to areas up the Kawarau river that are normally only accessible by jet boat or helicopter
Weather: Trips are weather dependent – a full refund can be given for trips cancelled by weather. Thunder Jets operation can be affected by visibility less than 50m in stormy conditions and we reserve the right to modify trip times and cancel trips for safety reasons.
Terms And Conditions
- Minimum number for trip to operate
- Children under 12 must travel with an adult (children 12-14 may travel alone at the discretion of the driver)
- Infants to sit on a guardian's lap so they can hold on to the safety bar
- No children under 2, must fit our smallest lifejacket (min 12kg)
- No pregnant women
Cancellation Policy
- We require 24 hours’ notice for cancellation before the booking departure time for a full refund
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- Offers and inclusions are subject to change without notice
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 48 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- The operator reserves the right to update their rates without notice