Thunder Jet 30-Minute Ride

About This Experience

The ride leaves Steamer Wharf, crosses Lake Wakatipu and runs along the Kawarau River before returning, with full 360-degree spins and commentary on the history of the river. The operator quotes speeds of up to 95 km/h, and the GetYourGuide listing says the boats are powered by twin V8 engines. Thunder Jet says it is the only Queenstown jet boat provider that plays music on its trips, and describes this as the only 30-minute jet boat ride on Lake Wakatipu. The listing says to expect to get a little wet.

You check in at the Watersports kiosk on Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, in central Queenstown, no less than 15 minutes before your trip time. Hotel pickup is not included, but the wharf is in the centre of town and public transport options are available nearby. Lockers are provided for valuables during the ride, per the GetYourGuide listing, and the route includes stops for photos, with views of the Remarkables and the surrounding alpine landscape.

It suits travellers who want a short ride from the middle of town, families (the GetYourGuide listing says there are no height restrictions) and anyone watching the budget: on GetYourGuide this ride has the lowest starting price of the rides on this site. It is listed as suitable for all fitness levels. If you want to go further down the Kawarau, the same operator's 1-hour ride covers more river; if narrow canyon walls matter most, pick the Shotover Jet at Arthurs Point instead.

Check in at the kiosk 15 minutes before departure and wear weather-appropriate clothing you do not mind getting a little wet. You can bring a camera at your own risk. All trips need minimum numbers to operate; if they are not met, you are offered a reschedule or a full refund. The GetYourGuide listing says the ride is not suitable for children under 2, while the Viator listing says infants must sit on an adult's lap, so confirm with the operator if you are travelling with a baby. It is not recommended for pregnant travellers.

Highlights

• Route runs from Steamer Wharf across Lake Wakatipu and onto the Kawarau River
• Speeds of up to 95 km/h, according to the operator
• Music on board: Thunder Jet says it is the only Queenstown jet boat that plays music
• Boats powered by twin V8 engines, per the GetYourGuide listing
• Stops for photos along the way
• Views of the Remarkables, per the GetYourGuide listing

What's Included

• ✓ 30-minute jet boat ride
• ✓ Full 360-degree spins
• ✓ Life jacket
• ✓ Commentary and local stories about the history of the river
• ✓ Full safety briefing before departure (GetYourGuide listing)
• ✓ Locker for valuables during the ride (GetYourGuide listing)

Not Included

• Hotel pickup and drop-off

What to Bring

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• A layer you do not mind getting a little wet
• A camera if you want one (brought at your own risk)

Good to Know & Caveats

• Check in at the Watersports kiosk on Steamer Wharf no less than 15 minutes before your trip time.
• All trips need minimum numbers to operate; if they are not met, you are offered a reschedule or a full refund.
• There are no height restrictions (GetYourGuide listing).
• The GetYourGuide listing says it is not suitable for children under 2; the Viator listing says infants must sit on an adult's lap. Confirm with the operator if you are travelling with a baby.
• Expect to get a little wet.
• Cameras are welcome at your own risk.
• Suitable for all fitness levels.

Meeting Point

The Watersports kiosk on Steamer Wharf, Beach Street, central Queenstown; check in at least 15 minutes before departure.