Rise and Ride 9am
New 9am Jet Boat Trip from Queenstown Marina
What is Rise & Ride?
Rise & Ride is our new morning departure, and the only Thunder Jet trip that leaves from the Marina rather than Steamer Wharf in town. You get 45 minutes on the water with the same things that make Thunder Jet, Thunder Jet: a driver with a playlist, 360° spins, big mountain views and plenty of local stories along the way.
Great value! At $99 for adults and $45 for kids.
Why go at 9am?
Mornings on Lake Wakatipu are something else. The water is often at its calmest, the light on the Remarkables is at its best and the day hasn't got busy yet. It's the kind of start that wakes you up better than any coffee.
Being back by 9:45am also makes Rise & Ride easy to fit in. Do it before a day on the slopes or the trails, before a long drive, or on a short stay when you only have one morning to spare.
What's it like on board?
Every Thunder Jet driver picks their own soundtrack, so no two trips sound the same. Expect singing, laughing and a few 360° spins that'll get everyone squealing (in a good way). Your driver will also point out the sights and share the stories behind them.
You might get a bit wet from the spray. That's part of the fun, but it's worth bringing a waterproof jacket and an extra layer, as mornings on the water can be cool.
Rise & Ride at a glance
• When: 9am daily, starting 24 October 2026
• Departs: Queenstown Marina (Frankton Marina)
• Duration: 45 minutes, back by 9:45am
• Price: $99 adult, $45 child
• Ages: Children must be at least 2 years old, weigh over 13kg and fit our smallest life jacket. Under 12s ride with an adult.
• Bring: A waterproof jacket. Spray jackets are not provided. Life jackets are.
Who is it for?
Pretty much everyone. Families love it because kids can come along from age 2. It suits early risers, anyone staying out Frankton way, and travellers who want a proper Queenstown highlight without giving up a whole morning.
Feeling Peckish?
Once you're back on the jetty, breakfast is a few steps away. Norka's Bagels at Queenstown Marina is doing a coffee and bagel deal for $20, which makes it the perfect post jet boat breakfast. Warm up, dry off and swap stories about the spins before you head off for the rest of your day.
Book your Rise & Ride
Start your day with full volume and full speed.