Two standout one-hour adventures in Queenstown pack serious thrills. The Lake Whakatipu jet boat ride (4.6/5 stars) delivers heart-pumping 360-degree spins while zipping through gorgeous mountain scenery. Car enthusiasts will love the private racing experience at Highlands Motorsport Park, where you’ll pilot a Formula 1-style car for seven exhilarating laps with expert instruction. These tours combine New Zealand’s natural beauty with pure adrenaline – let’s explore our favorite quick thrills in Queenstown.
Key Points
- Queenstown Jet Boat Ride is a thrilling 1-hour adventure on Lake Whakatipu and Kawarau River, featuring 360-degree spins and engaging commentary.
- Radical U-Drive Car Racing at Highlands Motorsport Park offers a 7-lap experience driving a Formula 1-style race car under professional guidance.
- Both activities provide stunning scenic views of Queenstown’s natural beauty, with opportunities for memorable photography.
- Both experiences have flexible booking policies, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and are suitable for adventurous travelers.
- The Queenstown Jet Boat Ride is not recommended for individuals with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers, and the same applies to the Radical U-Drive Car Racing.
Queenstown Jet 1-Hour Jet Boat Ride on Lake Whakatipu and Kawarau River
Often considered one of the top attractions in Queenstown, the Queenstown Jet 1-hour Jet Boat Ride on Lake Whakatipu and Kawarau River provides thrill-seekers with an adrenaline-fueled adventure.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars with 92% of travelers recommending it, this 1-hour experience delivers a thrilling ride across the lake and down the river, complete with the famous 360-degree spins.
Travelers will be treated to stunning scenery and engaging commentary from knowledgeable drivers throughout the journey.
While the ride duration may be slightly shorter than the advertised 60 minutes, the excitement and memories created are sure to last.
It’s important to note that the experience isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers, and infants aren’t allowed.
With a flexible booking policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Queenstown Jet Boat Ride is an excellent choice for an unforgettable 1-hour adventure in Queenstown.
Read our full review: Queenstown Jet 1-Hour Jet Boat Ride on Lake Whakatipu and Kawarau River Review
Book now: Check availability
Private 1-Hour Radical U-Drive Car Racing Experience – Queenstown
Located just outside of Queenstown at the Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park, the Private 1-Hour Radical U-Drive Car Racing Experience offers thrill-seekers and car enthusiasts an exhilarating opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Formula 1-style race car.
Under the guidance of a professional driver, you will take seven laps around the track, seeing the incredible performance of the Radical sports car.
With safety gear provided, including helmets, the experience isn’t accessible for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers. However, most adventurous travelers can participate in this private tour, which is highly recommended by previous guests.
Priced from $258.46 per person, the tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning.
Reviewers praise the excellent instruction and the sheer excitement of driving the Radical race car, making this a must-try activity for motorsport fans visiting Queenstown.
Read our full review: Private 1-Hour Radical U-Drive Car Racing Experience – Queenstown Review
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Common Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Jet Boat Ride?
The minimum age requirement for the jet boat ride is typically 6 years old. Children under this age may not be permitted to participate due to safety concerns and physical requirements. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific age policies.
Is There a Weight Limit for the Jet Boat Ride?
There is typically a weight limit for jet boat rides, usually around 120 kg or 265 lbs. Passengers may be weighed prior to the ride, and those exceeding the limit may not be permitted to participate.
Can I Bring My Own Camera on the Racing Experience?
Yes, you can bring your own camera on the racing experience. Most companies allow and even encourage guests to capture their thrilling ride. Just be sure to secure your camera properly to avoid any accidents during the high-speed maneuvers.
What Type of Cars Are Used in the Racing Experience?
The racing experience typically uses high-performance sports cars or supercars, such as Lamborghinis, Ferraris, or Porsches. Participants can usually bring their own cameras to capture the thrilling laps around the dedicated racing circuit.
Is the Racing Experience Suitable for First-Time Drivers?
The racing experience is suitable for first-time drivers, as it provides expert instruction and well-maintained performance vehicles to ensure a safe and thrilling driving session, even for those with no prior racing experience.
The Sum Up
Queenstown offers a range of thrilling one-hour tours and experiences. From the adrenaline-fueled Jet Boat Ride to the exciting Radical U-Drive Car Racing, visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and adventure of this stunning destination. These activities provide an unforgettable way to experience the best of Queenstown in a short amount of time.