“Big Red” Adventures in Queenstown


Imagine, as you speed along the canyon river mere centimetres above the water, the wind against your hair, your adrenaline pumping. The boat driver expertly drives the speed boat, as he weaves it in and out past rugged outcrops of rock, gliding past boulders and swiftly through narrow canyons. This exciting adventure is only part of what you will glimpse if you try Jet Boat Adventure in Queenstown.

Queenstown, situated in the Otago region of New Zealand is a picturesque town and the centre of adventure tourism. Surrounded by rocky mountains and valleys of clear blue lakes, it is ideal for water sports.

“Big Red” as the boats are called, is built specially to handle the Shotover River Canyon waters. Developed for maximum speed, strength and optimum movement, these boats are also powered with two Buick 3.8 litre V6 engines, producing 520 horsepower. Two Hamilton 212 Jet Units provide steering and control, propelling 760 litres of water per second. This unique combination means that “Big Red” can travel 85kpm in as little as 10cm of water.

Jet Boat Adventures provides you with an unforgettable experience and an adrenaline rush you will not forget easily. Make sure you hang on tight; as the driver makes the signal that you are about to experience their famous “360°” spins.

If you are concerned about your driver, have no fear. Each Jet Boat pilot has had a minimum of 120 hours of vigorous river training, which is more than double of the New Zealand requirements. Employed for their personality as well as their driving ability, each pilot will deliver you a unique experience in an enthusiastic fashion, giving you an experience you will not forget easily. By combining on-water delight and personalized passionate commentary, you will have memories that will last a lifetime.

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront provides you with the perfect location from Lake Wakatipu. Being a Queenstown ski resorts, you have adventure whatever time of year you go. This Queenstown resort blends superior facilities with personalized service. It is located 5 minutes from the heart of the city, close to many activities including Jet Boat Adventures and other water sport activities.