Clutha River Heritage Cruise

Note: Our Heritage Cruises run on demand and availability may be limited due to our Roxburgh Gorge Jet Boat Cycle Trail Timetable. Please let us know a few available dates/times when making a booking enquiry.

A Clutha River Heritage Cruise is a journey back in time venturing through the spectacular scenery of the Roxburgh Gorge to the perfectly preserved gold mines (1860’s) of Doctors Point and Butchers Point.

Trip Details:

• Departure Times: Our Heritage Jetboat Tours run on demand throughout the year.
• Price: $155 adult / $90 child (15 yrs & under) / Under 5 yrs Free with an accompanying adult and must sit on parents knee
• Trip Duration: Allow 2 hours
• Cruises depart from the Alexandra Boat Ramp. (Dunorling Street)
• Bookings essential

Heritage Cruise Highlights

• Discover the most isolated, scenic and historic sections of the Clutha/Mata-Au River
• Enjoy knowledgeable commentary on Central Otago’s Gold Rush history
• View the historic Doctor’s Point Gold Mine (1860s)
• See some of Central Otago’s best-preserved Chinese and European miners’ huts and rock shelters
• Excellent photo opportunities throughout the trip
• Please bring clothing suitable for the weather conditions on the day

Our Heritage Cruise offers a rare opportunity to explore the remote reaches of the Clutha/Mata-Au River and discover some of New Zealand’s best-preserved European and Chinese gold-mining sites.

Your journey begins at the Alexandra boat ramp, where you’ll be welcomed by your skipper and guide, Kris or Simone. Step aboard on one of our jet boats and head downriver as your skipper shares Gold Rush history — from the first gold discoveries of the 1860s through to the mining era of the Great Depression. These stories of grit, hardship and determination help bring the river’s past to life.

Along the way, you’ll see original miners’ huts hidden in dramatic schist formations, an impressive collection of gold-mining relics, and one of New Zealand’s most intact historic gold mines.

After exploring the gorge, sit back and enjoy a leisurely return journey to Alexandra, with plenty of time to take in the spectacular Central Otago scenery.

In Our Heritage We Trust!

Clutha River Heritage Cruise Gallery

“Laurence was a fabulous guide on the really comfy, entertaining and informative cruise down the Roxburgh Gorge. A perfect day doubtless helped, but this was relaxed and a wonderful way to see stunning scenery, learn a few stories, explore an old mine area and be entertained as well. My 12 year old grand daughter loved it as well. If you haven’t done it, you are missing out.”
~ Trip Advisor 2021