Winter Jetboat Ride

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the snowy beauty of the Bernese Oberland, the Winter Jetboat Ride in Interlaken might just be your perfect match. This tour promises a blend of scenic vistas, adrenaline-pumping spins on turquoise waters, and a classic Swiss winter activity—sledding down snowy slopes. While it might not be the most budget-friendly activity, the experience offers a memorable slice of Swiss winter life that’s worth considering if you’re after something a little different from the usual sightseeing.

What we love about this experience is how it combines adventure with stunning scenery. The boat ride itself is a highlight, offering a playful, high-energy spin while showcasing the majestic surrounding mountains. The second part, a sled ride downhill, adds a fun, active element that makes the whole outing feel authentic and genuinely Swiss. One thing to keep in mind: you’ll need to bring your own warm winter clothing, which can be a minor hassle but is essential for comfort in the cold. This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a splash of excitement and are ready for some outdoor winter fun.

Key Points

• Scenic and adventurous: Combines a high-speed jetboat ride with stunning mountain vistas and a sledding adventure.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable captains and guides enhance the experience with insider info and entertaining commentary.
• Winter gear provided: Waterproof outer layers, life jackets, and gloves are included, but you’ll need your own warm clothing underneath.
• Authentic Swiss experience: Sledding down snowy slopes offers a genuine taste of local winter traditions.
• Limited group size: Small groups of up to 11 travelers ensure a more personal and engaging experience.
• Excellent reviews: Both reviewers highlight the fun, enthusiasm of guides, and the scenic beauty of the ride.

An In-Depth Look at the Winter Jetboat Ride

The Journey Begins: Meeting in Interlaken

Your adventure kicks off in the charming town of Interlaken, well placed for exploring the Bernese Oberland. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, making it easy to reach without a car. Once you arrive, you’ll meet your professional captain and gear up with waterproof layers, life jacket, and gloves. While these are provided, be prepared to bring your own winter clothing—think ski pants, warm jackets, hat, and sturdy winter shoes—to stay comfortable during the outdoor sledding segment.

The Drive to Isenfluh and Cable Car to Sulwald

After meet-and-greet, you’ll enjoy a scenic 30-minute drive through Swiss countryside to Isenfluh. This part of the trip offers a glimpse of the snowy landscapes and mountain vistas that make the Bernese Oberland so special. From there, a short cable car ride takes you up to Sulwald, a tiny mountain village that seems frozen in time. The ride up is smooth and provides fantastic views—get your camera ready because these shots of snowy peaks and pine forests are postcard-worthy.

The Jetboat Experience on Lake Brienz

The core activity is a 20-minute jetboat ride on Lake Brienz, where you’ll be seated in a high-speed vessel captained by an expert. The boat’s design allows for impressive 360-degree spins, so prepare for some thrilling moments as the captain demonstrates their skill. The turquoise waters of the lake look especially vibrant against the white snow. This part of the tour is designed to entertain and provide an adrenaline rush without crossing into overly intense territory.

Reviewers describe it as “great fun” and appreciated the captain’s skills and informative commentary. One reviewer notes that Angie, their guide, was “phenomenal,” offering insights into Swiss culture and landscape while keeping the energy high. Expect to see breathtaking mountain backdrops and possibly spot some local wildlife if you’re lucky.

The Sled Ride Down Snowy Slopes

Following the boat ride, you’ll pause for a sled adventure. The sled ride is about an hour long, with occasional stops to enjoy the scenery. Descending from Sulwald back to the van, you’ll experience real Swiss winter activity—gliding down snowy trails, surrounded by towering mountains and crisp air. This segment is relaxed and fun, with pauses to take photos or simply soak in the scenery.

While some reviewers mention bumps in the water, making it less suitable for people with neck or back issues, most find it a joyous, exhilarating way to connect with Swiss winter traditions. It’s a refreshing change from typical sightseeing tours, offering active participation in the landscape.

Practicalities and Value

The entire tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a manageable half-day activity. The price is $149, which might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and authentic experience, it offers good value. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of high-quality gear helps you stay warm and dry.

Reviews confirm the experience’s quality, with one stating, “What a great time” and appreciating the guide’s enthusiasm. The other reviewer cautioned about bumps, making this more suitable for travelers without neck or back sensitivities.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is ideal for travelers who crave adventure and scenic beauty in one go. It’s perfect if you enjoy energetic outdoor activities, want a fresh take on traditional Swiss winter sports, or simply love mountain vistas with a splash of adrenaline. Families with children over 110 cm tall will enjoy it, provided everyone is comfortable with the bumps and cold. It’s also great for anyone who appreciates a knowledgeable guide—your guide’s insights make the experience richer.

However, those with serious back or neck issues might want to consider the bumps and fast spins. Be prepared to bring your own warm clothing for comfort, as the gear provided is waterproof but not insulated.

The Sum Up

The Winter Jetboat Ride in Interlaken offers a lively, scenic, and uniquely Swiss winter experience that combines high-speed thrills with breathtaking mountain views. It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers and adventure enthusiasts seeking a fun, memorable outing beyond the usual sightseeing. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal and engaging, while the sledding segment adds an authentic winter touch.

While the price might be on the higher side, the blend of scenic beauty, adrenaline, and cultural authenticity offers good value for those looking to make the most of their time in the Bernese Oberland. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting to spice up their Swiss winter holiday with something exciting, beautiful, and a little different.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, you meet at the designated outdoor meeting point in Bönigen, near Interlaken, which is accessible by public transport or car.

What should I bring?
You’ll need to bring your own waterproof and windproof winter clothing, such as ski pants, a good winter jacket, hat, gloves, and sturdy winter shoes. The tour provides waterproof outer layers but not insulated clothing.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, including transportation to the starting point, the boat ride, and sledding.

Are children allowed?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but there is a minimum height requirement of 110 cm. The experience suits active children comfortable with outdoor winter activities.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are unsafe or too poor, it may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the experience suitable for people with back or neck issues?
Bumps in the water might make it unsuitable for those with sensitive backs or necks. It’s best to evaluate your health before booking.

This winter adventure in Interlaken manages to combine excitement with scenic charm, making it a memorable highlight for those after a taste of Swiss outdoor fun.