Jet skiing is a fun, water-based activity that's perfect for summer in almost any coastal bathing spot. While competitions exist, it's primarily a recreational activity that offers the right amount of adrenaline as you ride over small waves at various speeds. It also provides a unique way to discover hidden bays and beautiful beaches that are otherwise difficult to access.
As you'll find out, jet skiing is always a supervised activity. A professional instructor will brief you on how to ride the vehicle and inform you of all the necessary rules.
Here’s a fun fact: the term "jet ski" is actually the brand name of a personal watercraft (PWC) manufactured by Kawasaki. Over time, it has become a commonly used term, much like Bubble Wrap, Kleenex, or Frisbee.
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re eager to make your dream of riding a jet ski a reality. Perhaps you’ve typed “How to Ride a Jet Ski” into your search bar and found yourself here.
You may see people using jet skis on the water or see them at your neighbor’s house on a trailer, ready for the next adventure. Still, that doesn’t mean you are infinitely familiar with these dynamic watercraft.
These vessels are unique in their ability to glide effortlessly over water, providing an unmatched sense of exhilaration. Their popularity isn’t just due to the thrill they provide, either. Jet skis are also accessible to a wide range of people.
Understanding Jet Skis
When it comes to choosing a jet ski, beginners often encounter two main styles: stand-up and sit-down models.
Stand-Up Jet Skis
These are the original form of personal watercraft and are designed for a single rider. Stand-up jet skis require good balance and physical fitness, as riders must stand and maneuver the watercraft with their body weight. They are often preferred by those looking for a more active and challenging experience.
Sit-Down Jet Skis
More popular among beginners and recreational riders, sit-down jet skis can accommodate one to three people. These models are easier to handle and are ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed ride or are new to jet skiing. Sit-down jet skis provide better stability and comfort, making them a top choice for families and those who want to enjoy a leisurely exploration of the waterways.
For beginners in NYC, especially those looking to enjoy the city’s waterways with ease and comfort, WaveRunners present an excellent option. The name WaveRunners is often used interchangeably with jet skis.
That said, they are actually a specific brand of personal watercraft manufactured by Yamaha. If you are wondering how to ride a WaveRunner, it’s good to understand its key differences from traditional jet skis.
- Brand and Design: The primary difference lies in the brand and design. WaveRunners are exclusively made by Yamaha, while the term “jet ski” is associated with Kawasaki’s line of PWCs.
- Seating and Riding Style: Traditionally, the term “jet ski” referred to stand-up PWCs, especially those made by Kawasaki. WaveRunners, on the other hand, are typically sit-down models.
- Performance and Handling: While both WaveRunners and traditional jet skis offer high performance, there can be variations in acceleration, top speeds, and handling.
- Features and Customization: WaveRunners often come with a range of features, including innovative hull designs, advanced control systems, and comfortable seating for multiple riders.
- Usage and Experience: WaveRunners are versatile and can be used for a variety of activities, from leisurely rides around scenic waterways to more adventurous water sports.
How to Ride a Jet Ski?
Riding a jet ski might seem difficult, but when following the guide’s instructions and respecting all the rules, you’ll see just how easy it is! A minimum age is required, and it also depends on the center that provides you with the activity. The same goes for whether a driver’s license is needed for the driver.
To start riding your jet ski there are a few things you’ll need to learn, once you check that you have enough engine oil for your excursion:
- Turn on/off
- Learn how to control the forward, neutral, and reverse commands
- Learn how to regulate brakes in case you have them
Mind that for older jet skis the throttle to steer might be sensitive. The instructor will carefully guide you through all of this.
Mind that the control panel of a jet ski is composed by:
- A speedometer that shows the speed you are currently driving
- The engine cut-off switch is a small clip that must be inserted into the boat’s console. The clip will stop the engine if the driver is falling out of the jet ski
- A safety lanyard is a little rope connected to the engine cut-off switch
Finally, to acquire stability while driving your jet ski you need to know how to lean in different situations. For instance, while accelerating you will need to be inclined forward, leaning back when stopping, and leaning on the sides during turns.
Even with waves, the jetski will go at a stable speed thanks to more responsive steering, if you want to use a specific technique try to ride the waves at 45 degrees diagonally.
DON'T DO THIS ON YOUR JETSKI! - 5 Things NOT To Do Your Jet Ski
Different Types of Jet Skis
There are several types of jet skis. Some of them are focused on performance (usually for people who are experienced and wish to drive fast), and others are easier to control and perfect for a jet ski safari on which you’ll discover beautiful coastlines.
Some examples of jet ski types are:
- Sea-Doo: the easiest watercraft to drive (speed from 40 to 70 mph depending on the model)
- Kawasaki: offers a higher speed and performance, some models might also be suitable for beginners (speed from 54 to 67 mph)
- Wave Runner: great control system (speed from 50 to 67 mph)
What to keep in mind when choosing a jet ski for beginners offering better control are the following characteristics: stability, breaks, and recreational watercraft.
How to Rent a Jet Ski?
Renting a jet ski might seem not always easy during the busy summer season due to the great number of people at sea looking forward to having fun. Our advice: make sure to book your jet ski excursion in advance!
If you want to try jet skiing as a beginner, you have usually two options to choose from, depending on what you’re looking for.
Jet Ski Rental
After making sure you have the eligibility based on the country’s policies and the driving license with you to drive the jet ski, the second thing to do is to rent a jet ski from 20 minutes to 1 hour and ride in a circuit intended for this activity. Right after picking up your jet ski with equipment and a thorough safety briefing, you will learn and be shown how to drive the jet ski. Then, you will be ready to cruise off to conquer the crashing waves, all by staying in a limited area. It’s a perfect way to discover the sensations of jet skiing and to spend a fun and thrilling moment on the water. Remember to stop when your time is up not to be charged more.
To make sure you find spots for your excursion due to the high demand, we recommend you book your jet ski rental online in advance.
Jet Ski Excursion
The second option is intended for people who wish to make use of the jet ski to discover remote beaches and hidden bays. During a jet ski excursion, often also named jet ski safari, you will follow a guide in small groups to explore and admire different spots. Each person has a jet ski, or you can take a participant along behind you. Depending on the itinerary, a safari can take 1 to 3 hours.
Overall, jet ski rents are suggested to people looking for more adrenaline while safari excursions will be sightseeing tours with great involvement as you will be your driver.
What to Know Before Going Jet Skiing?
Whether you’re a beginner to jet skiing or not, the instructors will always brief you at the beginning of your ride. And before even learning how to start the engine, there are some requirements to be fulfilled so that you can go practice this water sport. We gathered the most important information to know in advance so that you are prepared, especially if you are a beginner.
If you need one piece of advice, look far ahead, keep the most stable speed possible and the steering will be responsive. Don’t panic, just relax and drive your jet ski attentively!
What is the Minimum Age to Go Jet Skiing?
Even if no previous experience in jet skiing is required, 16 years is usually the minimum age to drive a jet ski. Minors over 12 years old are often allowed to come along as passengers on a jet ski, but they might need authorization from their parents to take part in the ride.
When booking your activity, check the requirements carefully. A maximum of two people can be on a jet ski, and the price of the activity is often defined per jet ski (and not per person). This might however vary depending on the excursion and the country selected.
Do I Need a Driver’s License to Do Jet Skiing?
No, when renting a jet ski or going on an excursion, you don’t need any specific license for jet skiing. As mentioned above, the instructors will teach you all you need to know to be in condition for practicing jet ski as a beginner.
What Equipment is Needed for Jet Skiing?
The most important piece of equipment is the life jacket, always mandatory for an excursion and furnished by the instructors, plus 1 radio per jetski to communicate with the guide. Depending on the season, the water temperature, and the duration of the excursion, you will also be equipped with a wetsuit. If you go for a jet ski safari, the instructors might also give you the necessary snorkeling equipment if you stop at a nice beach or bay for a break.
Before booking your activity, check carefully what you need to bring, some jet ski rental places might ask for your identity card or a deposit. Don’t forget to put on your swimwear and sunscreen, and bring a towel, your sunglasses and a bottle of water!
Do I Need to Know How to Swim for Jet Skiing?
Yes, despite you wearing a life jacket provided by the instructor, it is mandatory to have basic swimming skills in case you need to swim.
What is the No-Wake Zone?
A no-wake zone is an area where boats, jet skis, and other vessels need to slow their speed in order not to damage other boats or be a danger to swimmers close by. When jet skiing, you need to respect such no-wake zones, often indicated with floating cones. You will learn all of this during the briefing session with your guide.
What to Wear and Not to Wear During a Jet Ski Excursion?
You are recommended to wear a usual swimsuit and sunglasses, on the other side water shoes are not recommended due to the amount of water which easily enters your shoes it might be difficult to move. Phones are not recommended as people would risk losing them.
Who Should Not Go on a Jet Ski Excursion?
Due to the speed and the waves that might create a lot of bouncing, it is not recommended for people with back injuries, surgeries, or pregnant women to practice this water sport.
Keep in mind that during long jet ski tours snacks, water, and sunscreen are usually provided.
Why is Jet Skiing Fun?
Jet skiing is fun because you can spend some time with friends or family doing an easy activity full of adrenaline while catching the sun and waves. You will have the chance to do this activity in different areas and enjoy crystal-clear waters.
The variation of speed is a great plus as you could alternate it based on your and the passenger’s preferences. Jet ski rides are mood boosters! And if you test this water sport you will be able to discover amazing spots on the coastline from another point of view.
If you are doubting between a boat excursion and a jet ski one, these are completely different experiences because the jet ski is more involved as during the activity you will personally drive. Jet ski excursions provide more adrenaline, and waves without getting sick.
Best Places to Go Jet Skiing
At this point, you should have discovered everything about jet skiing for beginners, so it is time to give you some suggestions for the best spots to go on a jet ski tour!
- Jet ski in Santorini, Greece: You could choose a jet ski safari to discover Perivolos Beach, Red Beach, Kampia, White Beach, and much more, and have the chance to admire beautiful beaches.
- Jet ski in Denía, Spain: During the tour starting from the coast of Jávea, you will be able to reach an amazing marine reserve and the Cope of Sant Antoni. The activity will bring you even further, to the spots of Cabo de la Nao and the Orgens cave.
- Jet ski in Palma de Mallorca, Spain: Different excursions are available where you will discover El Arenal, and Playa de Palma, or start doing your tour around the Cathedral of Palma de Mallorca. Later you will spot the Royal Palace of Marivent, the palace where members of the Spanish royal family spend their summer.
- Jet ski in Split, Croatia: After the ride, you will have the opportunity to swim and relax on the best beaches of the island for 40 minutes before jet boating back to the port.
- Jet ski in Bora Bora: Listen to the secret stories and legends of the island told by your guide, discover the best spots around the island, the amazing marine life, and of course, you will have the chance to taste exotic snacks!
Wherever you want to try jet skiing, it’s a great way to spend a fun moment and discover hidden bays. With the above guide for beginners, you are well-prepared for this summer adventure!
Overcoming Initial Challenges
Getting started with jet skiing, like with most new activities, can often present challenges. For many, it may lead to apprehension. The key to overcoming these initial hurdles is preparation.
- Know Your Boat-Ed: In New York, it’s mandatory to pass a boating safety course before operating personal watercraft, including jet skis.
- Finding Your Comfort: Once on the jet ski, find a comfortable sitting position.
- Hand and Feet Placement: Place your hands firmly on the handlebars and your feet in the footrests.
- Safety First - The Kill Switch Cord: Before starting, ensure the lanyard (or a similar device) is around your wrist and connected to the ignition key.
- Gentle Throttle: Gradually push the throttle, starting at a slow pace (about 5 - 10 mph) offshore.
- Navigating Away from Shore: Once comfortable, steer to a safe distance from the shore, away from obstacles and heavy boat traffic.
- Understanding Turning Dynamics: Remember, jet skis require acceleration to turn effectively.
- Resist Standing Up: Initially, avoid standing on the jet ski.
- Understand the Weather: Check weather conditions before heading out.
- Start Slow: Build confidence gradually.
Safety First
Safety is a paramount concern in the exhilarating world of jet skiing. Jet skiing can be both safe and exhilarating when the appropriate safety measures are observed.
One of the primary concerns for potential riders is whether the activity is appropriate for non-swimmers.
Pregnant women are often advised to exercise caution with activities like jet skiing. The activity’s high-speed nature and potential for sudden, jarring movements can pose risks during pregnancy.
A critical aspect of jet skiing safety is adherence to age and certification requirements. This rule is in place to ensure that all operators have the necessary knowledge and skills to handle these powerful machines safely.
Handling and maneuvering a personal watercraft with skill and confidence is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience on the water. To steer your PWC effectively, you have to master balance and control.
Mastering Throttle Control
Managing the throttle control is one of the most essential aspects of operating a jet ski, especially when it comes to steering and handling potential emergencies. When you release the throttle on a jet ski, your control over its steering significantly decreases.