May 9, 2019
Jet Boating 101
You’ve booked your trip to New Zealand and QUEENSTOWN, the adventure capital of the world, the home of bungy and the best place for Jet boating! We’re sure you’ve got lots of questions, so we have listed the most common ones we get asked, as well as a few quirky ones.
How come Jet boats can travel in really shallow water?
Jet boats are powered by a Jet unit which sits flush with the underside of the boat. Water is ‘sucked in’ to the Jet unit, and then forced out, propelling the boat forward. Motor boats with an outboard motor require deeper water as the propeller sits below the boat.
How wet will I get?
Let’s be honest, part of the fun with Jet boating is the spray, drama and 360-degree spins! We provide guests with full length spray jackets to wear under your life jacket so you will be kept mostly dry. We recommend wearing something with a hood, or wear a woollen hat to keep your head dry. If you are really worried about getting wet then please request to our staff that you sit in the centre seats of the boat. Please note we can’t guarantee seating.
What should I wear?
No stilettos please! We recommend comfy closed toe shoes and that you dress for the weather conditions on the day, keeping in mind that in our boats you’ll be getting up to speeds of 95kph and therefore the wind-chill can be a bit nippy.
Can I take anything on the boat, like my back pack or handbag?
We can store your belongings at the Main Town Pier and KJet Marina when you check in and this is complimentary. There is limited storage available so please keep in mind we can only store handbags and small backpacks.
Can you Jet boat in winter?
Yes, you can absolutely Jet boat in Winter! Our trips run every hour on the hour 10am – 4pm in winter. We also have heated handrails to keep your hands toasty.
How old do you have to be to Jet boat?
Your children must be a minimum age of 2 to Jet boat with us due to safety reasons, and they must be able to fit into one of our infant life jackets. Infants between 2-4 years travel for FREE with an accompanying adult too.
Do you have height or weight restrictions?
We have no heights restrictions but as above, infants and children must be able to fit into one of our life jackets. For adults we do not have a weight restriction to ride KJet but you must be able to fit into one of our life jackets. We have a wide variety of life jacket sizes available going up to a maximum size of 4XL.
Can I ride KJet if I am pregnant?
Unfortunately, pregnant thrill seekers can not ride on KJet, this is to keep mum and bubs safe. This applies to any stage of pregnancy.
How long is the trip?
Lucky you – you’ve chosen a Jet boat company that goes for 60 minutes across three waterways. You need to check in at the Main Town Pier 15 minutes before your trip.
I’ve heard about your Airport transfer, what’s this?
It’s the ultimate welcome to Queenstown! We can meet and greet your group at the Queenstown Airport and Jet boat you into Queenstown, all while your luggage is being transferred to your accomodation. VIP treatment!
Where do I go?
Again, good choice choosing KJet. We’re the only Jet boat company that goes across Lake Wakatipu, down the Kawarau River and up the Shotover River, and return. This trip is 45km long.
Is it safe?
Safety is incredibly important to KJet. KJet operates under the national maritime governing body, Maritime New Zealand (MNZ) and undergoes Safe Operational Plan audits and inspections annually as part of MNZ’s Certificate of Compliance regulations. All our drivers are required to complete a minimum of 100 hours training and are subject to stringent vetting and licensing procedures. KJet’s MNZ current Certificate of Compliance is available on request.
Do you have jackets?
We supply spray jackets (optional) to keep you dry which go under your life jacket.
How many people in my boat?
We have two sized Jet boats. Our twin-engine boats take up to 22 passengers, and our singles take 11 passengers.
Can I book the Jet boat for myself and family only?
Yes you can, inquire with our reservations team for a private charter.
Can I take a camera?
You can absolutely take you camera on board as the scenery on the trip is amazing! However, your camera is taken on board at your own risk. Bear in mind with Jet boating there is the risk of getting slightly wet and we need you to be able to hold on to the hand rails, especially during our 360° spins. It’s best to make sure your camera has a hand strap. If you need more information about this please chat to our Reservations Team and Drivers when you check-in for your trip.
Want to Jet boat in Queenstown with the world’s first? Book now!
If we haven’t answered your question please contact us on bookings@kjet.co.nz or 0800 52 92 72.
