We have found the wildest water activity in the entire world. This is Hydro Attack New Zealand, where you climb inside a mechanical shark to get blasted across the water, submerge underneath, and then shoot into the air again. It sounds insane, and it is in the best possible way. It’s an experience every adrenaline junkie absolutely needs to have.
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, and it helps us keep finding places like this one.
What Is Hydro Attack?
Hydro Attack is a one-of-a-kind water experience based in Queenstown, New Zealand. The ride takes place inside a Seabreacher X watercraft, basically a shark-shaped submarine jet. The team behind it describes the craft as “a cross between a fighter jet and a torpedo,” and we’d say that’s pretty accurate.
Don’t worry, you’re not driving this thing yourself. The Seabreacher has a pilot, which means your only job is to hold on and enjoy every insane second of the ride. We love that it only fits the pilot and one passenger, because it makes for an incredibly personal and singular experience.
While you’ll probably be mostly focused on the extreme thrill of the ride, we recommend taking a look around when you can. The ride takes place across Lake Wakatipu, one of New Zealand’s most stunning glacial lakes, with the Remarkables mountain range as your backdrop. The juxtaposition between the peaceful setting and the high-speed adventure really is quite something.
Hydro Attack Experience
If your idea of a water activity is floating in a lazy river with a cocktail, this may not be for you. Hydro Attack Queenstown is a high-speed thrill ride. On the water, you’ll hit speeds of almost 50 mph. Underwater, you’re still moving at about 25 mph.
Here’s what you can expect during your 15-minute session:
- Speed runs across the lake
- Side rolls that tilt the craft almost entirely horizontal
- Doughnuts through the water
- Dives 5 feet below the surface – where you actually go underwater
- Jumps 18 feet out of the water – the ultimate adrenaline rush
The jump is the best part in our opinion. It’s the promise of the premise of this insane ride. It’s the part you see that makes you go, “I wanna do that.”
What to Know Before You Go
Location: Hydro Attack is located at Queenstown Bay and departs from the Lapsley Butson Wharf. It’s right in the heart of Queenstown, so it’s easy to find and to work into a full day of adventures.
Duration: Each session lasts for about 15 minutes.
Cost: The Hydro Attack price starts at $199 NZD (approx $117) per person.
Age & Size Requirements: Riders must be at least 6 years old to participate. The max height is 6’4,” and the weight limit is 235 pounds.
What to wear: Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You will get wet, so dress accordingly. Glasses and sunglasses are both fine to wear during the ride.
What they provide: Life jackets are provided, and it is mandatory to wear them. They also provide earmuffs since it can get a bit loud!
Capturing the experience: You can purchase photos and videos of your ride, which we definitely recommend. You’ll be too in the moment to capture anything yourself, so allowing the professionals to do it for you will give you a memory and memento you’ll have forever.
start planning your trip today
Packages Worth Considering
The fun doesn’t stop at Hydro Attack. You can make a full adventurous day out of their packages.
Thunder Jet: If you book a morning Hydro Attack shark ride, you can add on a 30–60 minute high-speed jet boat ride later in the day. One high-speed water activity in a day just isn’t enough!
Tandem Paraflight: If shooting 18 feet out of the air in a shark mobile isn’t enough, how about adding on a parasail? You can start the day soaring above the lake by parasail, and then follow it up with the Hydro Attack ride.
Is Hydro Attack Worth It?
Absolutely, yes. Queenstown is considered the adventure capital of the world, and with activities like this, we can see why. While there are tons of unique water activities in the world, there’s nothing out there like riding in a submersible, jumping shark! Plus, it’s so close to major tourist spots that it’s an easy add to your list of things to do in Queenstown.
If you’re already planning a trip to Queenstown, this one is non-negotiable.
Other Things to Do in New Zealand
Hobbiton – If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan, you cannot miss a visit to Hobbiton. You’ll get to explore the real set that was used in the movies, learn more behind-the-scenes facts, and even dine at The Green Dragon Inn. And if you plan your trip right, you can partake in the Hobbiton half-marathon. How many people get to say they’ve done that?! You can also book this tour that combines Hobbiton with the Waitomo Glowworm Caves, with free transfer from Auckland.
Velocity Valley – This is a sick adventure park with a jet experience, vertical free fall, and a bungee jump. We recommend the vertical free fall, which is one of the best adventure activities in New Zealand.
Nevis Swing – This is arguably the most famous canyon swing in the world. We love that you can do a tandem swing with a travel companion, which makes it a lot less terrifying than doing it alone!
Have you taken a ride on the Hydro Attack? Let us know all about your experience in the comments! And if you’re heading to New Zealand and looking for a thrill, hit that booking button below to lock in the adventure of a lifetime!
