WHAT IS NEW ZEALAND JET BOATING?
The jet boating experience is unique to New Zealand - in fact the first jet boat was invented here in New Zealand by William Hamilton in 1954. Jet boating has since become a great Kiwi activity and has opened up many otherwise inaccessible areas of New Zealand - one of these being the Waimakariri River home of Waimak Alpine Jet.
WHAT IS A JET BOAT?
The jet boat has an impeller [propeller] that is encased in a cylinder [stator] to protect it from hitting stones or the bed of the river. Unlike conventional propeller driven boats the jet boat's unit is above the water line enabling it to travel through extremely shallow water (3" or 75mm).
OUR JET BOATS
Waimak Alpine Jet operates three modern purpose built jet boat with a large carrying capacity of up to 66 seats per departure.
Our boats are specifically designed by Waimak Alpine Jet to suit the New Zealand jet boating conditions they operate in. They are powered by big block Chev engines and propelled by the world famous Hamilton Jet unit - the boats are loaded with power: 8.2 litres of engine giving them a cruising speed of 80+ kilometers per hour. The jet boats travel at high speed and the wind chill factor can be considerable - bear that in mind when you dress up for your New Zealand jet boating tour. All our jet boats are approved by Maritime New Zealand.
Your jet boat driver will undertake manoeuvres during tours that are only possible in a Jet Boat - one of them being the HAMILTON 360º spin. Hold on as the boat is spun out at full cruising speed and feel the awesome handling ability of the jet boat!
Boat Dimensions:
- Weight (empty) 1750 kg
- Length 7.1 meters
- Width 2.85 meters
- Max seat capacity 22 seats per boat
- Power 502 CI Chevrolet V8
- Top speed 90 km/hr
OUR JET BOAT DRIVERS
We have six Maritime New Zealand approved New Zealand jet boating drivers - their skills and knowledge will truly amaze you, as the boat tours into the breathtaking Waimakariri River canyon!
Safety and comfort are paramount in the Waimak Alpine Jet operation. You can relax in the knowledge that all of our drivers are trained to the high standards set by the Maritime New Zealand and Qualmark™. All Waimak Alpine Jet boat drivers complete 100 hours jet boating driving before carrying passengers and they undertake regular assessment by a senior driver. All drivers are qualified for emergency first aid.
Your jet boat driver will undertake manoeuvres during tours that are only possible in a jet boat - one of them being the HAMILTON 360º spin. Hold on as the boat is spun out at full cruising speed and feel the awesome handling ability of the jet boat!