Jet Boat Journey through Fiordland National Park - Pure Wilderness
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
This is a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Fiordland National Park - far from the crowds found elsewhere. Fiordland Jet is is the only scenic commercial operator on these waterways, which means guests can enjoy an authentic kiwi experience in a small, personalized group tour.
As a locally owned and operated business, we are taking tourism back to what it use to be - personal - and invite you to explore our beautiful home as one of the family. No rushing. No lines. Just wide open spaces and jaw dropping scenery.
This is not the typical jet boat 'ride' - this is a journey - time to explore and learn about this amazing area and its rich history all while having heaps of FUN!
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This activity is great fun for any age
It is recommended that you wear comfortable, supportive close-toed shoes
Guided walk suitable for all. The walking track is well-formed.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Begin your tour at our office on the Lakefront of Te Anau with plenty of free parking and secure storage. Get fitted for a spray coat, life jacket and if needed any cold weather gear (hats, gloves, blanket). Next take a short ride through Southland farms to the Queens Reach Boat Ramp where you'll board the boat with ease thanks to convenient ramps. After a short safety brief it's time to hit the water! Travel down the Upper Waiau River with crisp Fiordland air rushing by, crystal-clear waters below and stunning views all around. Pause along the way to learn about the area and it's rich history, have some laughs, spot trout swimming just off the boat, re-imagine Lord of the Rings from 3 film locations and even listen to native birds as your driver quiets the engine for a spell. Enjoy plenty of photo opportunities plus high-speeds and spins - which are great fun for all! Emerge onto Lake Manapouri and embrace true silence while surrounded by towering mountains and a view that will leave you speechless. Disembark into the National Park for a short guided nature stroll among native flora and fauna. Jump back in the boat and head back up river for more FUN!
What‘s Included
Cold weather gear when needed (hat, gloves, blanket)
Life Jacket & Spray Coat
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Options
Pure Wilderness
Reviews
679 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Exhilarating and Peaceful
Pellie36,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jade jetted us through beautiful, rugged country skimming the river. We did 360 turns, saw LOTRs filming sights and found ourselves on a peaceful, glassy lake all to ourselves. It was magical. If you are in Te Anau on your way to Milford Sound definitely take this unique adventure.
An educational and thriling ride.
Oscardog16,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We took a very enjoyable trip on the stretch of Waiau River, that flows from Lake Te Anau to Lake Manapouri on Fiordland Jet boat. The boat was driven by Will, who was accompanied by his younger brother Harry for this trip. Will was an excellent jet boat driver and thrilled us with numerous spins and the high speeds that the jet boat is capable of through shallow waters. We stopped numerous times for Will to point out filming locations of Lord of the Rings as well as his and Harry’s experiences of growing up on the river and lake. It was encouraging to hear their passion for the river and that they were both actively involved in maintaining the ecology of the river and invasive species of plants on its banks. We stopped at Cozy Nook on the bank of Lake Manapouri and walked a short distance on shore. It is part of over 60 kilometres of walking trails, that tourists and locals use regularly. Will even lived up to the challenge we set for the number of spins he would do on the way back up the river. We highly recommend this tour.
Incredible!
lilliann730,,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alex is fantastic, she went above and beyond to ensure our experience was fun and memorable! Such an incredible experience! Definitely would recommend if you want to see some beautiful scenery in a fun way!
Fun time on a fast boat
Expedition590854,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a fantastic experience on our cruise with Harry! All appropriate gear was provided to keep us as comfortable as possible despite a brief rainstorm right before we started. Harry was very skillful, informative, and provided excitement with fast spins. A great afternoon!
Unreal
751whitneyn,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Alex was unreal, best experience ever!! Couldn’t rate the experience higher. Loved having her as our tour guide 11/10. We love you -Contiki Jan 2026
Thrilling ride through the Fjordlands
183cleob,,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful ride with Alex who is smart and charming. She was masterful in driving the boat and gave us plenty of thrills with her 360 spins.
Good trip
Wanderer55437024111,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00Jade was a great driver needs to Learn a bit more about the trees and fauna so she can answer questions. Good experience
Fun and exciting, not scary
Cassandra S,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great experience. Skipper Harry was fun and informative. I would definitely recommend. Only regret is that I wish we had added the biking extension option.
For a really fun time…
SKE0214,,Jan 18, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a blast! Even though it was raining at the start Harry,our driver, said it would stop and it did. All layers of clothing that were provided helped a lot. At the stops we made, Harry gave us info on the area. For Lord of the Rings fans this was especially educational. Highly recommend!!
Fantastic tour, very exciting.
695andreasl,,Jan 17, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour by jet boat was fast and exciting. The boat trips were young, had fun and were very competent. The boat is very fast and we have made various 360 degree turns. Many interesting places and filming locations were stopped. The tour was better than expected and worth every euro! A great experience, all passengers were delighted.
From NZ$205.00
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