Lakeland Jet Boat Adventure - Clutha River
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Experience one of New Zealand’s most iconic adventure activities in some of the world greatest scenery. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80 kph, now picture doing this down New Zealand’s swiftest river with no seat belt and no brakes; that’s one way to get your adrenaline levels through the roof. Our trip makes the best of blood pumping adrenaline along with some of the world’s best scenery in the background.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Minimum age is 4 years
Please allow 1.5 hours for trip
Please check in 15 min prior to your jet boat departure time
Please Note we require a minimum of 4 passengers to run a trip, if you are booking as a single passenger please call to check availability
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Jet Boat Ride
Combo Options on site
Guide Commentary - history and water ecosystems
Life Jacket
Food and drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
What To Expect
Ride with Lakeland Wanaka and experience the water like you never have before. We take you on a thrilling 60 minute high speed Jet boat ride; departing from Wanaka’s waterfront enjoy a short jaunt across the lake taking in unsurpassed snow-capped mountain views, as we prepare to enter one of the world’s swiftest flowing rivers, the Clutha River. Here your expert driver will raise your excitement demonstrating the manoeuvrability of the jet boat pushing it to its absolute limits; skilfully navigating through shallow water, tunnels and over giant pressure waves, speeding past trees mere inches from your face disappearing in your peripheral vision. Picture yourself skimming across shallow water, over sand bars, through rapids and around rocks at speeds in excess of 80kph; and of course, a jet boat ride wouldn’t be complete without the iconic Hamilton Spin! A high-speed manoeuvre causing the boat to spin rapidly on the spot creating G forces you just can’t get enough of. This is an adventure for most so come and experience the iconic NZ Jet boat right in the heart of Wanaka.
Options
Jet Boat Ride
Reviews
180 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Windy day a total blast
daisy154913,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Definite 5 out of 5. Absolute blast with a very competent and informative driver Matt. The staff were welcoming and informative as well. Would recommend a trip for sure.
Adrenaline and postcard views
Departure57467223060,
Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We got spoiled with beautiful weather and snow on the mountains which made for a very special and memorable boat ride and appreciated our driver Amber stopping in the best spots for photos. She also taught us a lot about the landscape and local facts which we didn't expect but were very thankful for. The cherry on top was the actual thrills of ripping around the river in a jetboat! Thanks for an awesome experience.
a+
Tania L,
Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a great tour and Matt, our guide was very informative. My 2 adult sons and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Perfect experience. No notes ;)
Toofones,
Oct 1, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience with Matt. Just the right mix of chill cruising to focus on the incredible views and thrills with Matt’s expert driving. Loved the new fit out of the boat too!
Great for a first timer jet boat experience
Trek05126309200,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent experience for our first time, driver shared a lot of information and made the experience more enjoyable. Enjoyed not getting wet on such a cold day. Exhilarating but not frightening experience. Views of the river mountains and snow fields excellent.
Great trip
IluvtravelWollongong,
Apr 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amber is an asset to this business. Professional, informative and cheeky. A great day enhanced by great weather . our first time in a jet boat . It was great riding up front 👍
10/10
63callumy,
Mar 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Matt was amazing! Great scenes, water beautifully clear and very informative. Would recommend if have a free morning in Wanaka
Just do it!!!
888briana,
Feb 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great experience thanks to our driver Amber. She was safety conscious and gave very interesting facts about the lake, river and local surroundings during the slow times on the boat. The many 360’s were lots of fun, and the close calls were exciting. Thanks for a highlight time in NZ.
Clutha River Jet Boat Ride
Allison M,
Feb 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Well organised and convenient meeting point right on Lake Wanaka. Great driver , very informative , spectacular scenery
Loved it!
emmabP4992HR,
Feb 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00What a great experience. Matt was the perfect driver - friendly, super-skilful and provided useful info without overwhelming us (he also let a little boy on board steer for a bit which was cute). Tons of fun jet-boating along the beautiful Clutha River at a reasonable price compared to what else is on offer. Highly recommend.
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Operated by LakeLand Wanaka