Water activity

From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Activity provider: Skippers Canyon Jet
Water activity

From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride

Activity provider: Skippers Canyon Jet
Likely to sell out

From US$ 118.36 per person

Likely to sell out

Experience breathtaking scenery, Lord of the Rings locations, the Skippers Road and the adrenaline pumping jet boat ride through the most dramatic canyons of the Shotover River.

About this activity

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
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Covid-19 precautions
Special health and safety measures are in place. Check your activity voucher once you book for full details.
Duration 3 hours
Check availability to see starting times.
Live tour guide
English

Experience

Highlights
  • Experience the stunning scenery of Skippers Canyon
  • Travel the infamous Skippers Canyon Road - where no rental car is insured!
  • Jet through the narrowest canyons on the famous Shotover River
  • Discover a land rich in gold mining history where getting into the canyon is half the adventure!
Full description

Experience unbeatable value as you are taken on a spectacular guided tour of Skippers Canyon followed by a thrilling jet boat ride through the narrowest canyons on the Shotover River. Begin with a guided drive into historic Skippers Canyon with on board commentary from knowledgeable drivers. You will be escorted into a land rich in gold mining history and stunning scenery via the infamous Skippers Road which was carved out of the vertical rock face by miners over 130 years ago. Once on the boat you will feel your adrenaline surge as you power deeper into Skippers Canyon through the most dramatic canyons on the Shotover River. The highly skilled jet boat drivers maneuver the boat just inches from the sheer canyon walls and keep the excitement levels high with speeds in excess of 80kmh and a series of full 360-degree spins. After the boat ride, head to the historic Pipeline Bungy area for a rest break and incredible views out over the canyon before making the 45min journey back to Queenstown.

Includes
  • Return transport from central Queenstown
  • Guided tour into Skippers Canyon
  • Informative commentary from knowledgeable bus driver
  • 30-minute jet boat ride on the upper Shotover River
  • Spectacular scenery and photo opportunities
  • Life jackets and spray jackets (gloves in winter)
  • Meals and drinks
  • Photo or video packages (available for purchase on the day)
Not suitable for
  • People with back problems

Select participants and date

Participants

Date

Meeting point

Meet on the Camp Street side of the Station Building near Marmolada Cafe. Wait outside by the wooden benches next to the bus stop.

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Important information

Know before you go

  • This is a true backcountry experience and getting there is half the fun!
  • It is recommended to use the toilet prior to departing Queenstown as there will not be an opportunity to do so on the tour
  • Dress for the conditions on the day, wear warm clothing and bring a hat, sunglasses, camera, insect repellent and water
  • Minimum age requirement is 3 years for children
  • Tour is suitable for all ages as long as mobility is not a problem
  • Please advise the local operator if you have any medical conditions, back problems or are pregnant
Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.9 /5

based on 116 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.9/5
  • Transportation
    4.7/5
  • Service
    4.7/5
  • Organization
    4.6/5

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Stunning ride into Skippers Canyon and an incredible jet boat ride up river😃😃 Sooo
 much fun! Just DO IT! You won’t regret going on this trip. Definitely do “Skippers Canyon”. A friend who had done it recommended we do it
 so glad I booked it with them instead of Shotover. The drive into Skipper’s canyon made it well worth it!! Wouldn’t hesitate to do this trip again.

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March 30, 2023

Exceeded expectations!! We loved every minute. The ride up was almost as good as the jet boat! Our bus driver was so entertaining and informative he had us laughing all the way up the mountain. Then our jet boat driver Elliot was super friendly as well . This is not to be missed .

March 30, 2023

The highlight of our Queenstown experience! We were told this was the best Jet Boat experience and we 100% believe we made the right choice. Our tour bus guide was informative and entertaining on the thrilling journey across stunning landscapes down to skippers canyon. The best photos from our trip are from those photo stops. The Jet boat driver was amazing as he narrowly drove us through the canyon at high speeds, an adrenaline rush for sure. Would definitely recommend this.

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March 30, 2023

Product ID: 163278