Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour
Overview
Enjoy exciting high-speed watersports fun with the best Key West jet ski tour – the Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour, a guided 28-mile cruise around the island.
Highlights
- See Key West on THE original island jet ski tour.
- Depart from a beautiful 5-star beach resort.
- Make 5-6 stops for great photo opportunities.
- Enjoy 20-30 minutes of free time to ride, swim, and play.
- Rinse off with a freshwater shower after the tour.
Why Travelers Choose This Tour
The most thrilling way to see Key West from every angle.
Description
A long-time island favorite and the best jet ski tour in Key West, the Original Island Jet Ski Tour puts you aboard a high-performance personal watercraft for a full 28-mile loop around the island. Great for both first-timers and experienced riders, singles, or couples, this popular Key West jet ski tour is an unforgettable offshore ride that combines fun, thrills, and amazing scenery. Run fast or slow, try some twists and turns, take in the sights, and have a wet and wild blast on this top-rated Key West jet ski tour.
Meet at a beautiful 5-star beach resort ready to play, and after a short training session and detailed safety briefing, even first-time riders will be ready to hit the water. Our expert guides can answer any question, and life jackets, wet suits, and all other necessities are provided. Just bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera. When everyone is comfortable on their jet skis, your guide will lead the way west down the island’s Atlantic shoreline, through the cruise ship channel into the Gulf of Mexico, then east along the busy Gulf shoreline for a personalized scenic tour completely around Key West.
Great Sightseeing
Jet skis are perfect for touring the shallow waters around Key West and can get to places no boat can reach. Running along the shore offers close-up views of islands, beaches, resorts, and marinas. Your guide will describe offshore points of interest and highlight some local historic sites along the waterfront. The list of 5 must-see stops includes the famous Southernmost Point, the exquisite private resort island of Sunset Key, and the historic Key West Bight, the cultural and economic hub of the island for over two hundred years. This tour is absolutely the best way to take in the big picture of Key West and learn what makes it and the surrounding islands and waters so special.
On this amazing Key West jet ski tour, you will ride for nearly 2 hours and cover miles of turquoise-blue water to go places and see things that are out of reach of any land-based Key West tour. It is common to spot examples of the rich bird and marine life that inhabits the islands, sandbars, and Caribbean waters around Key West – you may see dolphins, rays, sea turtles, game fish, water birds, and more. There will also be chances to explore the mysterious mangroves, coast along deserted sandy beaches, and stop to swim over pristine sand bars sparkling under the clear water.
Key West's Best Jet Ski Tour
Experience the fun of this great watersport on a tour that offers plenty of opportunities to simply cut loose and blast through the waves on Key West’s Atlantic side or open up the throttle to skim over the smooth Backcountry water on the Gulf side. And your local guide will ensure that the ride is fun, interesting, and safe at all times. When the tour arrives back at the resort, you can rinse off the saltwater and sand with a freshwater shower and a fluffy towel, then get ready for the rest of the day’s adventures.
The Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour is one of the best things to do in Key West. It is a Florida Keys bucket list item, and because groups are kept small to allow for the best customer service and a great experience, spots fill up quickly. Tours depart all day long, so it is easy to fit a jet ski ride into any schedule. Book your Key West jet ski tour now to get all the details and we will see you on the water!
What's Included
- Equipment and instruction
- 26-mile jet ski tour of Key West
- Wetsuits (on request)
- Fresh water showers
- Towels
- Boater's safety certification
- Gratuities
What To Expect
Get ready for an epic 26-mile ride that takes you all the way around the island of Key West! In 90 action-packed minutes, you’ll conquer two oceans, take in stunning views, and have a blast doing something mere mortals (and other watercraft) can only dream of.
5-Star Resort (check-in)
After a quick and easy safety rundown from your awesome guide, you’ll be ready to ride like a pro. Hop onto your shiny new Yamaha Waverunner—your ticket to comfort and speed! This bad boy handles like a dream, whether you’re zipping across the waves at 45 mph or gliding through crystal-clear waters.
20 Minutes • Instruction Included • Equipment Included
Gulf of Mexico
Get ready to rev up and make some waves! We're taking you on the ride of a lifetime as you run through the stunning blue and green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It’s all about sunshine, speed, and non-stop excitement as we zip around the island in style.
Southernmost Point (pass by)
Catch a unique view of the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy—from the water. Fun fact: Key West is so far south it’s closer to Cuba than Miami. How cool is that?
Fort Zachary Taylor National State Park (pass by)
Catch a stunning view of Fort Taylor from the water. This historic fortress, which predates the Civil War, is a National Historic Monument and home to the world’s largest collection of Civil War armaments. Beyond its rich history, Fort Taylor State Park holds the unique title of being the southernmost state park in the continental United States.
Historic Key West Bight (pass by)
Take in the Key West Historical Seaport from the water, where you’ll find a hub of adventure. It’s a hotspot for tall ships and schooner enthusiasts, master divers, deep-sea fishing lovers, and anyone craving a thrilling water sports experience.
Sunset Key (pass by)
Catch a glimpse of Sunset Key from the water, a private island in Key West that’s known for its luxury and allure. This exclusive getaway is home to some of the rich and famous, offering a slice of paradise where opulence meets tropical beauty.
Atlantic Ocean
And just like that, we’re leaving the Gulf of Mexico behind and cruising into the vibrant waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Get ready for a whole new adventure!
Free Play Time
Now’s your chance to push your Waverunner to the max in the Atlantic Ocean free play zone. LET IT RIP and feel the thrill of the open water!
20 Minutes (approx.)
Key West Backcountry (glide through)
Cruise through the Key West Backcountry, where the pace slows a bit as you enter a no-wake zone. It’s the perfect chance to soak in the sights before you rev things back up!
Fort East Martello Museum (pass by)
As you glide past the Fort East Martello Museum & Gardens from the water, you’ll catch a glimpse of one of the most well-preserved examples of Martello-style military architecture in the U.S. This historic gem is listed on the National Register of Historic Places—and is home to Robert the Doll, Key West's most haunted doll.
Smathers Beach (pass by)
Your final thrill is a victorious whoosh past Smathers Beach, heading straight back to where it all began. Park your jet ski on the beach like a true pro, take a bow, and soak in the glory—you’ve just crushed the Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour with Cool Key West!
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- This activity is 1.4 miles from the cruise ship port
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- Not recommended for travelers with heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Paid parking nearby
- Most travelers can participate
- No previous experience is necessary
- Travelers should be comfortable in water with a life jacket
- All drivers must present a government-issued photo ID at check-in
- What to bring: Photo ID, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimwear, towel, and a smile!
- The minimum age for this tour is 14 to drive a jetski (with adult passenger); 16 to drive on their own (adult guardian must be present at check-in); most kids except infants and small toddlers can ride as passengers
- This tour will have a maximum of 12 jet skis per tour
Frequently Asked Questions
(29)Q: When or why would you cancel due to the weather?
A: If the conditions are poor, the captain will cancel the tour, and you’ll have the option to get a refund or reschedule for another day or time. That decision is made around the time of check-in.
The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Reviews
Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 2,517 traveler reviews collected by Cool Key West and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Free cancellation
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (29)
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
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If the conditions are poor, the captain will cancel the tour, and you’ll have the option to get a refund or reschedule for another day or time. That decision is made around the time of check-in.
Hi Jane, if the conditions are bad, the captain will cancel the tour, and you’ll have the option to refund or go another day. That decision is made at the time of check-in. The forecast showed rain all day today, too, and it was a beautiful clear day. We have a saying: “if you don’t like the weather in Florida, wait five minutes!”
There is a storage compartment on the skis where you can store your stuff, however, they are not waterproof.
Our Jet Skis can hold up to two adult passengers weighing up to 450lbs (about 204kgs). If you have smaller children with you and have a combined weight under the limit, we can still get you out on the water! Typically, the smaller child will be in front of the driver with the larger child on the back.
We cannot allow 3 or more adults on one ski regardless of weight – it’s simply not safe. We apologize for any inconvenience.
The jet ski has a small compartment, but it’s not waterproof. Bringing a waterproof or Ziplock bag will solve that problem for you. Alternatively, our staff can hold on to your phones/wallet while you do the tour.
You will want to check out our Key West Private Jet Ski Tour with Hotel Pickup
You can switch as long as both people presents a boater’s license.
If your license is from a NASBLA-approved boater’s education course, you are exempt from the test. Just remember to bring it with you to check-in!
You must be at least 16 years old to operate the jet ski by yourself (provided you have a boater’s safety license or have taken Florida’s Boater’s Safety Course). A valid ID is also required to verify the age.
If you’ve completed the test and bring your certification, you won’t have to take it again. Each temporary certificate lasts for 90 days. The FWC keeps all your information in its own systems (which we don’t have access to), so we’re not able to locate you if you forget your card. However, if you’ve passed the test before, it should be pretty quick for you the second time around!
Yes, kids below 16 years old are allowed to be a rider as long as they can reach the footrest of the jet ski. We don’t recommend the tour for infants and young toddlers.
We love taking people out for their first time! Our tour guides will give you all the instruction you’ll need before departure and they’ll be with you the whole way. Driving our Jet Skis is easy to learn and a lot of fun!
If it says NASBLA on your Boaters Safety License, then no need to take another one. If it doesn’t, you will need to take the test.
Courtesy Shuttle is available on request based on availability from most Key West hotels and guest houses, but please schedule your pick-up by calling the phone number on the email you receivbe after booking your tour.
Yes, you may go barefoot on the Jet Ski tour.
We do not recommend this tour for infants and small toddlers. As the child’s guardian, you know best whether your child will enjoy 90 minutes bouncing around on a Jet Ski. We do take young children out on the Island Jet Ski tour often, and most of them have a blast!
However, this is ultimately at the tour guides’ discretion. At the end of the day, we want to make sure everyone has fun with us (especially the little guys), so they will take the day’s weather and waves as well as the child’s weight into account to decide whether your child will be safe on our Jet Skis.
We have a single and a double rider.
You may select your preferred type as you book it.
Yes, the maximum combined weight on a jet ski is 450 lbs.
Almost anyone can go on a jet ski as a driver or passenger. The only exceptions are made out of concern for the health and safety of our guests. Those who CANNOT participate in jet skiing include anyone pregnant, under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or affected by any medical condition that may put them at risk when operating or riding a motorized craft on the open water.
If all guests on a single jet ski were born on or after January 1, 1988, at least one guest must have a boater safety license. This should be obtained in advance at Boat-ed.com.
We are committed to providing the best Key West jet ski experience and the most fun in the safest way possible. We appreciate your respect for our rules and for Florida regulations for boating and water safety.
Yes! You can save 30 minutes at check-in by doing the safety test online at Boat-ed.com. Just be sure to bring confirmation that you have passed the test.
This course is for Florida residents and visitors who do not already possess a valid boating education certificate but who wish to operate a jet ski on Florida waters.
Yes, upon request.
If you plan on using the free shuttle to the jet ski tour location, please follow the instructions below to set it up:
- If your booking is THREE (3) OR MORE DAYS OUT:
Please call the local phone number on your confirmation email the day before your booking. - If your booking is for TODAY OR TOMORROW:
Please call the local phone number on your confirmation email today. - Information for 9:00 AM TOURS:
Shuttle service is ONLY available for tours from 10:00 AM onwards. If you are booked for the 9:00 AM tour, you must find your way to check-in at 8:30 AM.
Guests will enjoy a 90-minute action-packed jet ski tour of Key West. As an added bonus you can arrive early at our four-star resort location and relax on one of Key West’s finest private beaches.
You must be at least 18 years old to operate a rented jet ski in Florida waters. If you were born on or after January 1, 1988, you must have in your possession a Florida Boating Safety Identification Card (or a Boating Safety Identification Card from another state) along with a valid photo ID to drive a rental jet ski by yourself.
If you need a Florida Boating Safety Identification Card, it is easy to get one with an online course and test. You can take the course and get your temporary Certificate of Completion ahead of time to save time on the day of your tour. Simply bring your Certificate of Completion and a valid photo ID with you on the day of your tour. If you need to take the test before your Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour, please arrive at the departure point 1 hour early. All drivers must be sure to bring a valid photo ID.
If the Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour must be canceled due to bad weather, and you cannot go on another day or time, you will be issued a refund by Cool Key West.
If required, parking instructions for the Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour will be included in your confirmation email.
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Key West. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Under Florida law, participating in any commercial jet ski tour is considered to be renting a personal watercraft (jet ski). Most people who were born on or before January 1, 1988, are allowed to rent and operate a jet ski in Florida waters without any special training or license.
If you were born after January 1, 1988, and need a Florida Boating Safety Identification Card, it is easy to get one with an online course and test at Boat-ed.com. You can take the course and get your temporary Certificate of Completion ahead of time to save time on the day of your tour. Simply bring your Certificate of Completion and a valid photo ID with you on the day of your tour. If you need to take the test before your Key West Original Island Jet Ski Tour, please arrive at the departure point 1 hour early. All drivers must be sure to bring a valid photo ID.
The Personal Watercraft Regulations from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission state that:
- A person (over 14 years old) who was born on or after January 1, 1988, must have in their possession a valid photo ID and a boating safety identification card or a temporary certificate issued by the commission in order to operate any vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater. Boating safety cards issued by other states are acceptable.
- A person must be at least 18 years of age to rent a personal watercraft in Florida.
- It is unlawful for a person to knowingly allow a person under 18 years of age to operate a rented personal watercraft (a second-degree misdemeanor).
- A person who was born on or after January 1, 1988, and is at least 18 years old may operate a rented personal watercraft if they are accompanied by a person who was born before January 1, 1988, OR a person who is at least 18 years old and has a Boating Safety Identification Card. The accompanying person must be “attendant to the operation of the vessel and responsible for the safe operation of the vessel and for any violation that occurs during the operation of the vessel.”
If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
