Queenstown is famous for its stunning scenery, and it’s a place where being on the water truly enhances the experience. Whether you want the adrenaline rush of a jet boat combined with a funyak paddle or prefer a peaceful kayak on a mountain lake, Queenstown has options that will suit your style. We especially love the combination of high-speed thrill rides with calm, scenic paddling—like the Dart River tours—which bring the landscape to life from multiple angles. These experiences not only offer fantastic photo opportunities but also immerse you in the breathtaking wilderness that makes New Zealand special.
If you’re wondering where to start, our list below covers a range of Canoe & Kayak experiences in Queenstown. From full-day adventures in UNESCO-listed national parks to serene lakeside paddling, each tour offers a unique way to connect with nature. Check out the details and see which one fits your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include full-day tours that combine jet boat rides and funyak paddling in the stunning Dart River, giving you a mix of adrenaline and exploration. For those seeking a shorter, more relaxed experience, we recommend the Moke Lake Kayak Experience, perfect for a half-day escape in calm waters. Lastly, for a budget-friendly and active outing, the Queenstown: Kayaking or SUP Experience on Moke Lake offers a quick paddle in a gorgeous mountain setting. Each of these experiences is described below, so you can choose the perfect fit.
1. Dart River Canoe and Jet Boat Experience from Queenstown
This full-day adventure is a standout for combining jet boat thrills with peaceful canoeing in the same trip. Starting with a complimentary coach transfer from Queenstown, or the option to meet at Glenorchy, you’ll first hop aboard a powerful jet boat that speeds up the Dart River through wild, glacier-fed waters. Once in Mount Aspiring National Park—an UNESCO World Heritage Site—you’ll switch to a funyak, an inflatable canoe that’s surprisingly stable and easy to handle, even for beginners.
What makes this tour exceptional is the blend of the adrenaline rush of the jet boat with the tranquility of paddling through streams and rock pools. As your guide leads a flotilla of funyaks, you’ll discover hidden channels and peaceful corners of the park, with plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply soak in the magnificent scenery. The tour includes a picnic lunch amid the breathtaking landscape, which often features scenes from ‘The Lord of the Rings’.
With a 5.0-star rating based on 319 reviews, this is a well-loved experience. Travelers praise the expert guides, the spectacular scenery, and the feeling of being immersed in nature. If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines excitement and serenity, this tour hits all the right notes.
Bottom Line: For those who want to experience the rugged beauty of Mount Aspiring with the thrill of a jet boat and the calm of canoeing, this tour offers unbeatable value and fun.
2. From Queenstown: Dart River Canoe & Jet Boat Day Trip
This full-day Dart River adventure offers a similar experience but emphasizes the ease of scenic transfers and culture. It includes comfortable transportation to Glenorchy, where you’ll hop on a wilderness jet boat to explore the glacier-fed Dart River. Afterward, you’ll spend time paddling a gentle funyak, discovering crystal-clear streams and rock pools amid some of New Zealand’s most striking scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is the comprehensive approach—it’s a hassle-free way to enjoy the landscape without the need to organize logistics yourself. Plus, the guide shares insights about the land’s cultural and natural history, making it educational as well as fun. The trip also takes you nearby Paradise Valley, famous for its use as a filming location, giving you a behind-the-scenes feel of the area’s cinematic fame.
Reviewers rate it 4.8/5, citing its smooth organization and spectacular backdrops. The inclusion of lunch, transfers, and all equipment makes it a practical choice for travelers wanting a complete day out. It’s ideal for those who prefer a less strenuous but equally scenic experience.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a relaxed, all-inclusive day with a mix of water rides, paddling, and cultural insights—all in one trip.
3. Moke Lake Kayak Experience
For travelers craving a peaceful, half-day paddle, the Moke Lake Kayak Experience is a top choice. Just a short drive from Queenstown, Moke Lake offers calm waters surrounded by towering mountains, making it ideal for beginners and families alike. The tour includes all necessary kayaking gear, a safety briefing, and time to paddle at your own pace.
This experience is notable for its serenity—you’ll glide across the still lake, capturing stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. The small group setting allows for personalized attention, and your guide shares interesting facts about the area during the bus transfer. After paddling, you’ll enjoy refreshments, making it a relaxing, active way to connect with nature.
Rated 5.0/5 with 37 reviews, travelers highlight the beautiful scenery, the friendly staff, and the ease of paddling even for those new to kayaking. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but still want a meaningful outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for a quick, scenic paddle—especially if you’re traveling with beginners or families wanting a gentle adventure.
4. Queenstown: Kayaking or SUP Experience on Moke Lake
If you prefer a shorter, more flexible outing, the Queenstown: Kayaking or SUP Experience on Moke Lake offers a 3.5-hour opportunity to explore at your own pace. After a brief transfer, you’ll get instruction on kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, then set off to enjoy the horseshoe-shaped lake.
What makes this tour appealing is the chance to choose your preferred water activity—kayak or SUP—and enjoy the breathtaking mountain views without a long commitment. The tour includes a light picnic with tea, coffee, and snacks, perfect for recharging after your paddle.
Rated 5/5 with 16 reviews, visitors mention the unusual tranquility of the lake and the easy, guided setup. It’s well-suited for those who want a quick, scenic outing with minimal hassle.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a short but memorable water adventure or those new to kayaking or SUP, with the bonus of a lovely picnic.
How to Choose
When deciding between these Queenstown canoe and kayak experiences, consider your budget, time, and activity level. The full-day Dart River tours (link) are perfect if you want a mix of adrenaline and relaxation and don’t mind a longer day. The Dart River day trip offers an all-inclusive hassle-free option for those who prefer to skip organizing logistics.
If you’re after a shorter, peaceful paddle, the Moke Lake Kayak Experience or the Queenstown kayak or SUP are great picks, especially for families or first-timers. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the lower price point of the latter, while those seeking a comprehensive full-day adventure will find the Dart River tours worth the investment.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown offers a fantastic variety of canoe and kayak experiences that suit different interests and schedules. Whether you’re after a thrilling combination of jet boat and paddling or a peaceful lake paddle, you’ll find options that let you enjoy the incredible scenery in your own style. For adrenaline seekers, the full-day Dart River tours provide a perfect mix of speed and serenity. For those seeking a quick escape into nature, Moke Lake offers a calm and scenic paddle at a reasonable price.
For families or beginners, the shorter options deliver excellent value and enjoyment without requiring extensive skill. Whatever your preference, these tours provide an authentic way to experience Queenstown’s stunning landscapes on the water.
Remember to book early, especially during the busy summer months, and get ready to enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery New Zealand has to offer—on water.