Jetboating and Steamboating in Queenstown

As a bit of an adrenaline junkie, going on a jet boat ride was high on my list of things to do when I went to New Zealand, though of course not any old jet boat ride would do. I came across plenty of opportunities as I traveled around the South Island, but most were on calm rivers and lakes; I wanted something a little more dangerous. I was in Queenstown when I finally found what I was looking for.

The Shotover Jet in Queenstown

I decided to take a ride on the Shotover Jet that shoots its way up and down the narrow Shotover River Canyon. No boring old lake for me!

When I arrived at the set off point for the Shotover Jet, I watched the boat speeding along through the shallow water and I was instantly filled with excitement. I couldn’t wait to get in on the action!

People boarding the Shotover Jet

Before long I was suited up in my life jacket and climbing on board for my first jet boating experience.

The jet boat shot off down the spectacular canyon, tall cliffs rising up on both sides and water spraying in its wake. Just as I was enjoying the scenery racing by, we suddenly did a full 360° spin before continuing down the river at ridiculous speeds of up to 85kph. At times the water seemed so shallow that I thought we were going to hit the bottom and tear the boat apart, but the boat is designed to operate in as little as 10cm of water.

We continued flying up and down the canyon doing spins and sharp turns, often coming so close to the canyon walls that I was sure that we were going to crash, but the skilled driver was completely in control. This ride was truly exhilarating.

The Shotover Jet speeding up the Canyon

The Shotover Jet was not a cheap experience, but certainly well worth it. I hopped off the boat feeling pumped and full of energy. It was certainly a great way to feel alive!

The TSS Earnslaw Steamboat

When I got back to Queenstown I decided to spend the afternoon on another boat, this time at the opposite end of the scale.

The TSS Earnslaw is a vintage steamboat that is actually turning 100 years old this year. It has been operating on the beautiful Lake Wakatipu for all of that time and departs for daily cruises from the Queenstown Wharf.

The beautiful old steamboat slowly chugged its way along the lake, and I sat there taking in the peaceful and relaxing setting and pace of the boat. We headed towards the Walter Peak High Country Farm on the shore of the lake, where I would take a tour of the farm.

On the deck of the TSS Earnslaw

View of Lake Wakatipu from the top deck

Walter Peak High Country Farm from the TSS Earnslaw

The TSS Earnslaw docked at the farm

Walter Peak High Country Farm

When we arrived at the jetty, we departed the boat and were able to explore most of the farm on our own. The old farm is a great way to learn about how a New Zealand sheep farm operates, and they have several demonstrations, my favourite being the sheep dog round up. It was fascinating to watch as the dogs herded up the sheep and guided them into the pen.

Different breeds of sheep at the farm

Watching a sheep dog demonstration

As I was watching the show however, I kept being drawn back to the puppies!

Puppies!!!

Eventually we boarded the TSS Earnslaw again and the old steamboat slowly made its way back to Queenstown, a lovely way to end a great day of boating in a spectacular part of New Zealand.

Have you been jet boating or steam boating? I’d love to hear about your experience.