South Island
Updated: 16 th February 2026
Glenorchy Jet Boat & Canoe Tour – Dart River Funyak Adventure
Experience the ultimate Glenorchy jet boat and canoe tour on the Dart River in Mt Aspiring National Park. This full-day wilderness adventure begins with a high-speed jet boat ride deep into the braided river valleys, before switching to a guided Funyak (inflatable canoe) float through hidden side channels and dramatic chasms.
Departing from Queenstown or Glenorchy, the tour includes a scenic transfer, small group experience and a riverside picnic lunch in one of New Zealand’s most spectacular alpine landscapes.
Dart River Jet Boat and Funyak Tour in Mt Aspiring National Park
Dart River Funyaks is an amazing journey from Glenorchy deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mt Aspiring National Park.
The Dart River Funyak Glenorchy tour combines high-speed wilderness jet boating with a guided inflatable canoe adventure in the heart of Mt Aspiring National Park. After a scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, enjoy an hour of thrilling jet boating along the braided Dart River before switching to your Funyak to paddle through hidden side channels, rock pools and the dramatic Rockburn chasm.
Top Tip: Book well in advance to avoid disappointment. At peak times, we can be booked weeks in advance. Dart River trips are limited to protect both your experience and the environment.
Dart River Funyak is a unique day of exhilaration, adventure and discovery
Price: Adult $515 per person (age 16 to 99) – Child $345 pp (aged 5 to 15)|
Tour Duration: Allow 9 hours Queenstown return or 7 hours Glenorchy return
Funyak Departure:
8:30am – Departs from The Station (cnr Shotover and Camp Streets)
9:30am – Funayks trip departs from Dart River Adventures Base Building in Glenorchy
4:15 pm (approx) – Bus returns to Queenstown
What to Expect on Your Glenorchy Jet Boat and Canoe Adventure
- Sit back, relax and enjoy the fantastic lakeside scenery on our complimentary courtesy coach from Queenstown to Glenorchy with an entertaining narrative from your local driver describing Lake Whakatipu and its legends. The spectacular 46km drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is one of the world’s Top 10 scenic drives.
- Enjoy an hour of thrilling wilderness jet boating through the gentle, rapid free waters of the braided Dart River into the Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area and your Funyak launch site.
- Professional, friendly guides take you on an inspiring adventure as you paddle downstream in your own Funyak. (2 to 3 pax per canoe).
- Take your time and find those special spots where flora, fauna and the power of nature combine to create magic. Stop along the way and enjoy a wilderness picnic lunch.
- Lunch: we can cater for a wide range of dietary requirements and allergies including (but not limited to) gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian, vegan & mild allergies. These need to be confirmed at least 24hrs prior to the trip departure date. Anyone with a severe allergy will be asked to bring their own food.
Highlights of the Dart River Funyak tour:
- Thrilling jet boating adventure in the spectacular wilderness of the Dart River
- ‘Funyak’ expedition to explore the glacial channels of the stunning Dart River and its hidden side streams, rock pools and impressive chasms
- Enjoy beautiful views and a delicious buffet lunch in an actual wilderness setting.What to Bring on your Dart River Funyak Adventure:
- Summer: Sunglasses, sun hat, insect repellent, camera and sunscreen recommended.
- Winter or cooler summer days: Wear thermals including warm outer layer, hat, gloves, windproof jacket, sunglasses, insect repellent & camera.
- Bring swimwear, towel and inner thermal layer (to wear against the skin) all year round. No experience required but you should feel comfortable in the water.
Bring your waterbottle too.
Dart River Funyak tour Restrictions:
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Minimum age 5 years
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Minimum height 1m (1.2m in certain conditions)
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Not recommended during pregnancy
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Advise medical conditions in advance
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Dart River Funyak & Jet Boat Tour – Frequently Asked Questions
This full-day Dart River Funyak Glenorchy adventure begins with a scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy, followed by an exhilarating jet boat ride deep into Mt Aspiring National Park. You’ll then paddle a guided Funyak (inflatable canoe) through braided river channels, hidden side streams and the Rockburn chasm, finishing with a wilderness picnic lunch.
Dress for outdoor conditions and water activities. Bring sunglasses, sun hat, insect repellent, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, thermal layers and a water bottle. In cooler months, wear warm clothing and a windproof outer layer. No prior canoeing experience is required, but you should feel comfortable in and around water.
Yes. Children must be at least 5 years old and meet the minimum height requirement of 1 metre (1.2 metres in certain conditions). The experience is not recommended during pregnancy or for guests with serious back, neck or mobility issues. If you have a medical condition, please advise at the time of booking.
Allow approximately 9 hours return from Queenstown or 7 hours when departing directly from Glenorchy. Morning departures typically return to Queenstown around 4:15pm.
The tour includes return transport from Queenstown (if selected), a high-speed jet boat ride on the Dart River, guided Funyak canoeing, professional guides, safety equipment and a wilderness picnic lunch. Current pricing is $515 per adult and $345 per child.
