:: Shotover Jet Boating, Queenstown ::

While we were in Queenstown we decided we had to check out the Daddy of Jet Boating in New Zealand and see if it lived up to its reputation of 'thrill therapy'!

Jet Boats are a kiwi invention used originally by farmers to be able to get upstream easily to their cattle through shallow rivers and narrow gorges. Nowadays they have become a tourist adrenalin rush to keep you on your toes and get you to see far out places up rivers, lakes and valleys.

The Shotover's main selling point is its navigation through the narrow Shotover canyons. Saying that this is for only two thirds of the ride and it also travels out in the open with winds that will make your eyes water!

On arrival we found the staff to be very friendly and helpful as you'll find with many of the operators in Queenstown who all run a slick operation. We drove straight out to the Shotover River but free transfers are easily available from the centre of Queenstown with commentary and guides etc along the way. Compared to other jet boating rides the Shotover is quite short at approximately 30 minutes but the price realises this and so is a great option if your short of time but want to fit some jet boating in -other operators do offer longer tours which can be more cost effective if you have more time. Shotover Jet have recently replaced all their boats with brand new twin jet engines for more safety and thrills!

During the ride you'll be navigating slim canyons, narrowly dodging rocks and doing the classic jet boating 360 degree turns - not to be done on a full stomach or a big night! The driver was great and gave basic information on the area as we waited for other jet boats to pass. The strong winds, high speeds and obstacles make it a really refreshing experience! The ride has mainly been developed for the adrenalin rush not the scenery so if this is what you're looking for then something like the Dart Jet or similar may be more your cup of tea.

Conclusion

We found the Shotover to be a great introduction to jet boating. We didn't find the ride as much of a rush because we had already done the Dart Jet and so were already used to our spins and dodging! For this reason we would recommend that you do the Shotover as your introduction to jet boating. For the price it is one of the cheaper activities you'll get to do in Queenstown and is suitable for any age group. I've even taken me mum on it and she didn't half swear! You unfortunately have to pay extra for photos but they do have a great option of postcards of you in the boat which you can send there and then to friends and relatives to make them jealous. You can also see your photos online for free and then download them and send to friends and family which is an excellent idea. The option of doing it again for half price is also another bonus they offer.

Overview

- Cheap activity in Queenstown terms
- Friendly and helpful staff
- Great if your short on time and want to experience jet boating
- Brand new jet boat fleet
- Fast adrenaline activity which suits all ages
- Café and gift shop for a sit down after!
- Good option of postcards, free online photos and half price second time round
- One of the shorter Jet Boat activities-if more money might want to try a half day with other companies
- Not so scenery based more of a water rollercoaster!