Wilderness jet boating experience covering more than 60 km of the Dart RiverHighly experienced professional drivers and guidesA modern, well maintained fleet of twin engine jet boatsLife jacketsWhat to BringSummer:SunglassesSun hatCameraSunscreenInsect repellentWarm outer layerWinter or cooler months:Warm clothing (layers recommended)Hat and glovesWindproof outer jacketSunglassesCamera

Departure: Dart River Visitor Centre, 45 Mull Street, Glenorchy at 9.30am & 1.00pmCheck-in time: 15 minutes before departureIf driving from Queenstown, we suggest you allow at least 1 hour plus time for photo stops.

Dart River Scenic Wilderness Jet Experience

Q: Who can join the tour?

Children must be at least 3 years old to participate and must meet the minimum height of 100 cm, which may increase to 120 cm depending on river conditions. This experience is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant or for those with certain medical conditions, including back or neck injuries. Please contact the team prior to booking so they can assess and advise your suitability to travel.All guests must be able to fit into one of the available life jackets, with sizes up to 2XL provided. If a 2XL life jacket does not fit, participation may not be possible. For safety reasons, anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to travel.

South Island

Dart River Adventures

from

NZ$319

per adult

Book Now

Side view of jet boat speeding across Dart River with spray

Experiences

Jet Boat Tours

Adventure Tours

Family-friendly Tours

Half-Day Tours

South Island

Start: Glenorchy

Duration: 2.5 hours

Minimum Height: 1.2m Minimum Age: 3

Dart River Jet Boat Adventure Through Mount Aspiring National Park

Begin your day with the spectacular self-drive journey from Queenstown to Glenorchy, following one of the world’s most scenic lakeside routes along Lake Whakatipu. Upon arrival, your jet boat adventure takes you deep into Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area, exploring vast stretches of glacier-fed river at an unhurried pace. The setting is ideal for travellers who want time to absorb the dramatic landscapes and the peaceful wilderness atmosphere.

Your guide shares stories that bring the region to life, from Māori legends to the historic Pounamu trade routes once used by early travellers. With up to 90 kilometres of river to explore, this is the longest wilderness jet experience in the region. Constant shifts in water clarity, bush colour and alpine weather mean the scenery is always transforming, giving every visit a unique feel.

Scenic Highlights and Wilderness Immersion

This experience gives you access to areas that would typically require a full day’s hiking, revealing the braided river systems and mountain valleys that define Mount Aspiring National Park. The wide, glacier-fed waterways offer endless opportunities for photographs and quiet moments as you take in the power and scale of the terrain. Seasonal changes in wildlife, vegetation and snow lines ensure that no two departures look the same.

For travellers seeking freedom and flexibility, the self-drive option is an excellent match. You’ll explore at your own pace on the road and on the water, with time to enjoy the views and connect with the natural beauty of the region. This relaxed, immersive journey makes for a highlight of any visit to the South Island.

Excited passengers enjoying jet boat ride on Dart River

Dart River guide holding pounamu rock for group on boat

Dart River guide pointing out features during scenic boat tour

Dart River Adventures jet boat racing through shallow stream

Jet boat making a fast turn in shallow waters of Dart River

Jet boat idling in shallow braided riverbed on Dart River

Jet boat parked at shallow bend in scenic Dart River valley

Dart River jet boat speeding through forest-lined river valley

Jet boat carving a turn through turquoise glacial waters from above

Aerial view of braided Dart River in Mount Aspiring National Park

Jet boat speeding along Dart River with rugged mountains

Dart River jet boat powering through forested canyon turn

Jet boat drifting beside lush bush on Dart River tour

Jet boat racing under snowy mountain ranges on Dart River

Guide sharing stories with group during Dart River jet boat stop

Jet boat gliding through calm Dart River waters with mountain view

Jet boat speeding along braided Dart River with alpine backdrop

Jet boat group cruising through Dart River with snow-capped peaks

Wilderness jet boating experience covering more than 60 km of the Dart River
Highly experienced professional drivers and guides
A modern, well maintained fleet of twin engine jet boats
Life jackets

What to Bring

Summer:

Sunglasses
Sun hat
Camera
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Warm outer layer

Winter or cooler months:

Warm clothing (layers recommended)
Hat and gloves
Windproof outer jacket
Sunglasses
Camera

Departure: Dart River Visitor Centre, 45 Mull Street, Glenorchy at 9.30am & 1.00pm
Check-in time: 15 minutes before departure

If driving from Queenstown, we suggest you allow at least 1 hour plus time for photo stops.

Cancellations more than 24 hours before departure: Full refund**.
Within 24 hours: No refund

**Note: Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*

Frequently asked questions

Limited on-street parking is available next to the Dart River base building, with additional public parking just a short walk away.

The jet boat takes you through Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area at a relaxed pace, covering more than 60 km of spectacular alpine scenery. Along the way, your guide will share stories about the region, Māori history and the significance of Pounamu (Greenstone).

Children must be at least 3 years old to participate and must meet the minimum height of 100 cm, which may increase to 120 cm depending on river conditions. This experience is not suitable for anyone who is pregnant or for those with certain medical conditions, including back or neck injuries. Please contact the team prior to booking so they can assess and advise your suitability to travel.

All guests must be able to fit into one of the available life jackets, with sizes up to 2XL provided. If a 2XL life jacket does not fit, participation may not be possible. For safety reasons, anyone under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to travel.

Yes, absolutely. This experience is designed for travellers who want to explore incredible wilderness scenery rather than focus on high-adrenaline thrills. The jet boat is used mainly as a way to reach remote landscapes, with regular stops for stories about local history, culture and landmarks. There are a few spins, but you’ll get a heads-up beforehand, and they’re only a small part of the overall journey.

You’re welcome to take photos and short video clips during the experience. For safety, all cameras must be put away during the spins so you can hold on properly.

Toilets are available at the Glenorchy base building. There are also wilderness toilets at some locations along the route, though access may vary depending on river conditions.

Free lockers are provided at the Dart River base building so you can safely store your personal items during the trip.