If you’ve ever driven a Jet Ski, you know what it feels like when tears of exhilaration stream horizontally past your temples while hitting speeds of up to 55 mph. As your hair stands on end, sparkling in the mist of ocean spray, remember the machine you’re on is as powerful as it is fun (and you know what they say about “great power”). There are some crucial safety tips to remember while letting loose on personal watercrafts that can keep you alive.
1) Take a boating safety course
Before you even get on a jet ski, you’ll need to have a boating license, and one that’s approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). If you don’t have one already, we’ll take you through a half hour safety class that will get you up to speed, then issue you a license.
2) Wear a life jacket
Always wear a life jacket. It won’t only save you from a ticket (it’s the law in Florida), but could save your life. There are different types and sizes of lifejackets, so make sure you are fit with one that’s snug and won’t fly off the moment you hit the water. Life jackets are provided to all of the drivers and passengers who rent Jet Skis (or any boating equipment) at Wet-N-Wild Watersports.
3) Drive Defensively
Even if you’ve been driving jet skis for years, unexpected waves from passing boats can tip the vessel by hitting it from the side and tossing you overboard. Always be aware of your surroundings, depth of the water, and oncoming traffic. If you’re within Destin Harbor, make sure you are driving counter clockwise. Lastly, when you rent a Jet Ski, you are the only one who should be driving that Jet Ski. Accidents happen more often with inexperienced drivers who have not taken a safety class.