Queenstown man Tom Murray has apologised to the skipper of TSS Earnslaw after deciding to take the plunge into Lake Wakatipu last month.
The 23-year-old, who has lived in the resort since February, told Mountain Scene he did not realise his actions could have resulted in serious injury or legal action.
He admitted the decision was "silly'' and "reckless''.
"I just thought I was having fun. I didn't realise it was a criminal offence.
"There was a bit of banter with my mates beforehand ... and I guess that is pretty much why I did it.''