New Zealand · BOAT TOURS IN WANAKA
The good ones go weeks ahead and the rest fill in behind them. Below: 10 boat tours in Wanaka, what each includes and where they genuinely differ.
Board the 17-meter catamaran Dual Image beside Wanaka’s old jetty for a relaxed one-hour cruise. Your $38 ticket includes a glass of local wine, beer, or soft drink, plus cheese and crackers. Chat with the English-speaking crew, including skippers such as Toby or Reon, and enjoy extra drinks for $7.
“Loved this afternoon cruise. The crew were so friendly, accommodating and knowledgeable.”
Join Go Jets Wanaka for a 90-minute jet boat ride on the Clutha River. With space for no more than nine people, Pat and the crew combine fast turns, 360-degree spins, photo stops, and stories about local gold-mining history. Meet in Albert Town, or ask about pickup from Wanaka accommodation.
“Amazing Ride! We enjoyed the Jet boat ride with Pat, he is so knowledgeable and he absoblutely loves nature! Explaning to us about the Clutha river, activities around the river, history and so much more! And not forgetting the twists and turns Read more”
Travel from Wanaka into Mount Aspiring National Park by jet boat, racing over shallow river braids and spinning through deep pools before a 50-minute guided walk to forests, waterfalls, and glacier-fed streams. Local guides such as Ben and James share stories about the mountains and film locations. The four-hour trip suits people with moderate fitness.
“Ben is a very knowledgable and gifted skipper. You are in for a real treat on this trip!!!! We had a blast with beautiful scenery, great jet boat ride and walk in a serene beech forest. Would definitely do this again when in Wanaka!”
You’ll leave Lakeland Wanaka on Ardmore Street for a 60-minute jet boat ride across Lake Wānaka and down the Clutha River. Expect speeds above 80kph, shallow channels, rapids, tree-lined turns, tunnels, and Hamilton Spins. Guides such as Matt, Max, Amber, and Sarah combine driving skill with local stories about the river and its ecosystems.
“Exciting spins,engaging storytelling by friendly Max and breathtaking scenery.Perfect family adventure.”
Spend two hours cruising Lake Wanaka aboard the white catamaran Dual Image, then follow a guide such as Cam on a short, 50-meter climb to Stevensons Island’s summit. Expect mountain views, local stories, photo stops, and tea, coffee, and a biscuit on the return trip. The walk is optional.
“A nice relaxing cruise with a lovely bush walk once we got to Stevensons Island. After returning to the boat there was a warm cuppa with biscuits.”
Cruise 30 minutes across Lake Wanaka with a local captain, then join a guided one-hour return walk on Mou Waho Island. Look for reintroduced buff weka, plant a native tree, and enjoy morning or afternoon tea beside the island’s remarkable lake-on-an-island view. Guides including Michael and Chris bring strong local and eco knowledge.
“We had the best time seeing Wanaka from the lake and doing a perfect length hike to the top of the island. We learned so much about the plants and animals in the area too! Boat ride might be a little chilly/splashy in the winter :)”
Spend an hour on Lake Wanaka with one complimentary wine, beer, RTD, or soft drink, plus communal cheese and crackers. The 5:30 pm cruise passes Ruby Island, Stevensons Peninsula, Eeley Point, and the Lone Tree. Expect a relaxed social outing, light commentary, and a fully licensed bar. Tim, Cam, and Toby are among the crew mentioned by name.
“Really lovely way to relax and see the lake and surrounding scenery . Crew were really welcoming . Wine and cheese was great .”
Take a fast boat from Wanaka’s lakefront to predator-free Mou Waho Island. Guide Jamie, Toby, Tim, or Reon may lead your two-hour walk through native bush to a lake above the lake, then a higher lookout. Bring sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, and a warm layer.
“The guides were lovely and knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. The lake and the island in the lake were beautiful! We saw two of the endangered Buff Weka's while there!”
Take a one-hour Lake Wanaka cruise to photogenic Ruby Island, then follow a local skipper-guide on a gentle 20-minute walk. Hear about the island’s prohibition-era past, spot its mix of native and exotic plants, and frame the lake and mountains from shore. Guides may include Tim, Toby, Chris, or Dan.
“Very good but there could have been more time on the water. Our guide was very informative.”
Join Olly for a three-hour small-group fishing trip on Lake Wānaka. You’ll troll for trout and salmon with premium rods, reels, and downriggers while an electric motor keeps the boat quiet. Morning and afternoon trips run year-round, with summer evening outings too. Licenses are extra, and you can keep your catch within local limits.
“It was a great morning out with Olly. He is a very efficient skipper and knows all the right spots. Clean and safe boat and provided good equipment, even supplied a sweet treat.”
Pick a coast, a crater or a cellar door.
