Discovery Blog

A jetboat is a boat propelled by a jet of water ejected from the back of the craft. Unlike a powerboat or motorboat that uses a propeller in the water below or behind the boat, a jetboat draws the water from under the boat into a pump inside the boat, then expels it through a nozzle at the stern.

Jetboats were originally designed by Sir William Hamilton (who developed a waterjet in 1954) for operation in the fast-flowing and shallow rivers of New Zealand, specifically to overcome the problem of propellers striking rocks in such waters.

 

Your feedback really helps us shape and deliver a great experience for our customers. You'll be able to read our customer reviews here. We also really encourage past customers to post reviews here.

 

'We did this on our first full day in New Zealand. Leaving from the bridge, Blair took us up the gorge in the jet boat (apparently these were invented in New Zealand as the rivers are too flat-bottomed to take an outboard motor). The scenery is amazing and the boats travel up to 60-70 kmph. Blair did plenty of spins for us which the kids really appreciated. Overall a great experience!'

 

Jet Boats have been about for a while!. New Zealand National Film Unit presents Jet Boats in New Zealand (1961)

Mr C.W.F. Hamilton, New Zealand inventor, demonstrates his jet boats on beautiful Lake Manapouri. Water-skiers skim behind jet boats on Lyttelton Harbour. The twin-jet 'Rangimarie' takes tourists up Wanganui River and jet-boaters shoot the rapids and shallows of the Waimakariri River.

 

Our new promotional video will give you a taster of what you can expect on one of our jet boat rides. Hold on tight!

Welcome to our new site, live today. We've added some new features and deals for all of our outdoor adventures.

We've also a number of photo galleries which we hope you enjoy!