Ecological River Cruises in Cambridge: A Unique 60-Minute Private Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1 hour
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels—minimal physical exertion required, suitable for families including young children
Overview
Discover Cambridge’s hidden river ecosystems on a private 60-minute ecological cruise. Ideal for families and nature lovers, this tour combines gentle adventure with educational insights.
Private Tour - 60 Minute Ecological River Cruises
Ages 3 yrs + • 15 min intro + 60 mins tour • Safe and loads of fun for everyone
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About This Adventure
Explore the best kept secrets of Waikato river with us!
Duration
1 Hour 15mins
(15mins intro + 60mins tour)
- A minimum of at least 2 adults will be required for tours to run. If you are booking for 1 adult and 1 child, select 2 adults for the tour to run.
Note: A private tour fee of $55 applies per booking. Children and teenagers must be accompanied by at least 1 adult or senior.
About
Waikato River Cruise
Camjet’s Ecological River Cruise is a scenic site seeing jet boat river cruise. The trip is tailored by the customers on board, this includes the speed, and number of slides and spins if any. The experienced driver will give you detailed history of the area and Karapiro dam and power station. The area is full of native birds and bush. The Waikato’s best kept secret, come and see for yourself, you will be very impressed.
- A Scenic Sightseeing River Cruise
- The narrow Cambridge Gorge
- Waterfalls
- Fish, Birds, and Wildlife
- Full Commentary
- Speed tailored for the customers on board
- Karapiro Dam and Power Station
If requested can include some slides and spins.
Group Bookings
- If your group is over 8 people contact us to make a booking.
- We have two 8 – 9 seat jet boats and one 10 – 12 passenger twin engine V8 jet boat.
Requirements
- Children must be 3 years + for ecological tours
- Not suitable for pregnant people
- Not suitable for people with head, neck, back or hip injury’s
Adventure Tips
Bring Binoculars for Bird Watching
Pack lightweight binoculars to get closer views of native birds frequenting the riverbanks.
Wear Sun Protection
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure can be high on the water; a hat and sunscreen are recommended.
Dress in Layers
Mornings and evenings can be cool; layered clothing helps adjust to changing temperatures.
Arrive Early to Relax
Arriving 15 minutes before your tour start helps you settle in and catch the introductory briefing comfortably.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- New Zealand fantail (pīwakawaka)
- Common long-tailed bat (pekapeka)
History
The Waikato River has been essential to local Māori culture for centuries, serving as a food source and spiritual guidepost.
Conservation
Operators actively promote low-impact tourism to preserve the river’s delicate ecology and support ongoing habitat restoration.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cambridge
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Light Waterproof Jacket
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so a waterproof layer keeps you comfortable in light rain.
spring specific
Sunhat
Keeps your face shaded and helps prevent sunburn during warmer months on open water.
summer specific
Warm Fleece
Fall mornings and evenings along the river can be chilly, so layering a fleece is advisable.
fall specific
Insulated Gloves
Cold air on the water means gloves can keep your hands warm during winter cruises.
winter specific