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Shotover River Rafting Trip from Queenstown

Offered by Challenge Rafting

From

$306.67 per person

4.8 (116 reviews)

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Booking handled by our partner, Viator

5 hours (approx.)Pickup Available Mobile or paper ticket accepted Offered in: English

White water rafting on the Shotover River begins with a drive through Skippers Canyon, then tackles six rapids and the 170-metre Oxenbridge Tunnel.

Tour Overview

This white water rafting trip on the Shotover River is built for people looking for a more demanding run. The journey begins with a drive through Skippers Canyon to the rafting start point, setting the scene for the river ahead.

On the water, you will tackle six rapids on this wild section of the Shotover River, with calmer stretches in between to look around, swim, and take in the area’s gold mining history. The long, narrow grade 4 to 5 section known as Mother includes rapids such as Aftershock, Squeeze, Toilet, and Pinball, each bringing a different pace and challenge as the river changes shape and speed.

One of the defining parts of the trip is rafting through the 170-metre Oxenbridge Tunnel in darkness before emerging to take on Cascade Rapid and its final drop. It is a physical, high energy experience, but the quieter sections give you time to absorb the rugged character of the river and canyon.

For safety, participants must weigh between 40 kg and 120 kg, and you need to be able to swim confidently to take part.

What's Included

  • Courtesy coach transfers from centrally located meeting point
  • All necessary equipment- wetsuit, life jacket, spray jacket, booties, helmet
  • Bus Ride through Skippers Canyon
  • White water rafting down the Shotover River
  • Hot showers
  • Safety briefing, professional guides

Not Included:

  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

What To Expect

Experience the rugged beauty and unspoiled grandeur of the breathtaking scenery as you conquer this wild and untamed river. Tackle six rapids along the Shotover River, with stretches of calm water to take in the views, go for a swim and soak up its gold mining history. The long and narrow grade 4-5 Mother is made up of rapids such as Aftershock, Squeeze, Toilet, and Pinball. Raft through the darkness of the 170-metre Oxenbridge Tunnel and shoot the Cascade Rapid to complete the challenge. *Please note for safety we have a minimum weight restriction of 40.0 kg and maximum weight of 120.0 kg, and it is also required that you are able to swim confidently to participate.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup available

If requesting pickup, please select your preferred location when booking through Viator.

Or Meet At Meeting point

1 Arthurs Point Road

1 Arthurs Point Road, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand

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If you have chosen to self drive to our Raft Base, 1 Arthurs Point Rd, Arthurs Point, please advise us and we can update your booking accordingly. Check in is 15 minutes prior to departure time.

End Point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Important Information

• Weight restrictions apply. Under 40kgs (88lbs) and over 120kgs (264lbs) are not permitted to participate. • You must be able to swim to attend this tour. Please contact us if you have questions or to discuss your swimming ability. • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there is not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund • Not recommended for pregnant women

Additional Info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • It is essential that all parties are confident swimmers and comfortable in deep water.
  • Weight restrictions - Under 40 kg (88lbs) and over 120kg (264lbs) will not be permitted to participate. (weighing maybe required upon check-in).
  • Minimum age - 13 years - Children aged between 13 and 15 years must be accompanied by a guardian
  • If a traveller wishes to discontinue with the rafting experience during the trip, the traveller is liable for all costs associated with removing them from the river. This term is void if a medical or natural emergency arises and evacuation is required.
  • If you are pregnant you cannot participate on this experience and if you do so without notifying the Raft Guides guides of your conditions you do so at your own risk
  • Under 18 years - Guardian conditions apply.
  • Suitable for water competent people of moderate fitness.
  • People with a heart condition or taking heart medication are unable to participate.
  • Trips are weather, river level and/or water temperature dependent.
  • You must speak or understand English.
  • Not able to participate if who have had Heart Surgery, Coronary Disease, Cardiac Arrest, or Heart-Related Medication excluding blood pressure medication
  • Must be able to swim at least 25 meters unassisted and have moderate fitness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.