Skippers Canyon Tour with Jet Boat Ride

Must Do Experiences

• Brace yourself for the iconic 360-degree Hamilton spins during your high-speed jet boat ride.

• Capture stunning panoramic shots of the sheer canyon walls during the guided scenic drive down the historic Skippers Road.

• Listen closely to the expert guides as they share fascinating tales of the region's gold mining history.

Hidden Gems

• Ask your driver to point out the exact spots where Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed along the canyon.

• Keep an eye out for the historic Skippers Suspension Bridge, a marvel of 19th-century engineering.

• Sit near the back of the jet boat if you want the most thrilling, splash-heavy experience during the spins.

What Makes it Special

• Exclusive access to the narrowest and most dramatic sections of the Shotover River.

• A seamless combination of a heritage-rich guided scenic tour and an extreme adrenaline activity.

• Highly skilled drivers who safely maneuver the boat mere inches from sheer rock faces at over 80kmh.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The tour is spectacular year-round, but visiting during the summer (December to February) offers warmer temperatures and bright, clear days ideal for photography. Winter (June to August) provides a dramatic, snow-capped backdrop, though you will need to bundle up significantly against the cold.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a fast shutter speed or sports mode on your camera to capture the high-speed jet boat action without blurring.

• During the scenic drive, use a wide-angle lens to fully capture the immense scale and depth of Skippers Canyon.

• Keep a waterproof case or dry bag handy to protect your gear from the inevitable river spray.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

New Zealanders value respect for the natural environment, so ensure you follow the 'Tiaki Promise' by taking all rubbish with you and leaving no trace. Listen attentively to your guides when they speak about the local Māori heritage and gold rush history, as storytelling is a vital part of Kiwi culture.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Queenstown Winter Festival (June) brings a festive, high-energy atmosphere to the region, making it a great time to combine snow sports with your canyon adventure.

• Autumn (April to May) transforms the surrounding landscapes with vibrant gold and red foliage, perfect for scenic tours.

• Spring (September to November) often brings higher river levels from snowmelt, making the jet boat rapids even more thrilling.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Always keep your hands and arms inside the jet boat, as the driver will navigate mere inches from the canyon walls.

• Hold on tightly to the provided handrails during the 360-degree spins and sudden maneuvers.

• Pay close attention to the safety briefing and wear your provided life jacket securely at all times while on the water.