Here is your chance to pair two of Queenstown’s most iconic experiences. Packing in those famous 360 spins and dramatic canyon walls as you discover the Kawarau River and its pristine wilderness. The Thunder Jet will race down the river to your next mode of transport. Jump straight into a raft with the team at Queenstown Rafting to complete the last section of river, where the Jet Boats fear to go. Spend your afternoon paddling through the historic Kawarau gorge, famous for its gold mining, wineries and it’s stint in The Lord of the Rings franchise.
Paddle and swim your way through grade 2-3 whitewater rapids with a brand-new cliff jumping section added for the adventure junkies. Complete your journey by tackling the famous 400m Dog Leg rapid – the longest commercially rafted rapid in New Zealand. Then head back to Rafting Base for a hot shower.
Pair two of Queenstown’s best activities and book now
Go Orange Thunder Jet
Go Orange Queenstown Rafting - Kawarau River
In case you haven't found the information you were looking for, we've put together some of the most common questions our customers ask about our trips. If you need more specific answers, please contact us directly.
Do I Jet Boat in my wetsuit?
Yes, you do. We will take you to the Jet Boats from the Rafting Base. If you are not Jet Boating, you will stay in the bus and carry on via road to the Kawarau River put in.
Where do I put my wetsuit on?
You will get all your gear at the Raft Base before your trip begins. When you check in at the Shotover Street store a shuttle will take you out to the Raft Base at Arthurs Point, here we have changing rooms and hot showers for when you return.
How long is the Jet Boat ride?
Your Jet Boat experience will be around 30-40 minutes long. You will be joining the Thunder Jet one-hour trip, once you have unloaded, they will turn around and head back to Queenstown.
How do I get back to the Rafting Base after the experience?
Your experience will finish at Rafters Road where our bus will be waiting. We will load the rafts on to the trailer and head back to base together.
Are my experiences getting cut short because I'm combining two?
No, the Kawarau River Rafting experience is the same time as you meet the crew at the start point. Thunder Jet offer a 25-minute trip down the Kawarau River, that is what you are booking. Double the adventure.
Do we get lunch?
You don’t. Please ensure you have eaten before your experience, you will be on the water paddling for at least two hours. You can however purchase food and drink from Canyon Food & Brew Co located out at the Raft Base.
Do we take the rafts and the paddles with us on the Jet Boat?
No, we wouldn’t want you to lose these during those famous 360-degree spins. All the equipment apart from the gear you are wearing will be taken to the raft put in on the bus.
Will there be other people on the Jet Boat?
Potentially yes. You will be joining the Thunder Jet one-hour trip so there will be Thunder Jet customers on the boat. You will sit together with the other rafters and a guide.
Will we see Dolphins on the Jet Boat?
Unless we find a rare breed of fresh water Dolphins during you experience then no you won’t see Dolphins.
Why should I choose Thunder Jet?
Apart from the fact that we are awesome, our Jet boats travel further and cheaper than any other Jet Boat in Queenstown. Covering 44Km down the Kawarau River giving you that real wilderness experience. We offer a trip packed with famous 360 degree spins and navigate under not one, but two bridges. Our drivers are also pretty epic, spinning quality yarns and playing the best tunes.
How old do you have to be to ride with Thunder Jet?
There are no age limits, however we are unable to take children under 13kg.
What are your weight restrictions?
You just need to be over 13kg. There are no upper weight limits.
Will I get wet?
It is not our intention to get you wet however we can’t control the weather and sometimes our spins can get a little powerful. Meaning you may experience a light spray of water but that’s why we give you spray jackets.
Can I take my camera?
Of course! The Jet Boats travel at high speed and take you to some epic photo spots. Just keep it covered when we spin, we wouldn’t want it getting wet. Go Pro’s and selfie sticks are also welcome, just hold on during those spins.
Can I take my bag?
Unless you require your bag on the boat for medical reasons we suggest you leave it with us on land. We have lockers that we can store your belongings in until you return from your experience.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes. Jet Boating is an excellent family activity to be enjoyed by all. Bring your kids, they will love it!
Will I get seasick on the Jet Boat?
Hopefully you won’t. Our Jet Boats travel at speed and we throw in a few 360-degree spins, however if you’re feeling a little queasy just let the driver know.
Can I ride on the jet boat if I am pregnant?
We don’t suggest you Jet Boat if you are pregnant, sorry!
Sorry. The booking process is not supported when in private browsing or incognito mode.
Try turning off private browsing or incognito mode to continue.
