Airlie Beach: Jet Ski Safari Tour & Marine Life Encounters

Summary

Jet ski through turquoise Airlie Beach bays spotting turtles

You’ll grip the handlebars as you speed across Airlie Beach’s turquoise bays on a jet ski safari with a local guide. Watch for sea turtles beneath you, feel the wind sting your cheeks, and share laughs with your group. Safety briefing and all equipment are included—just bring your sense of adventure.

What’s the experience like?

There’s this slap of water against plastic right before the engine kicks in — I remember gripping the handlebars tighter than I meant to. Airlie Beach looked softer from out on the water, the coastline sliding by in patches of green and white sand. Our guide, Ben, shouted something about keeping an eye out for turtles, but honestly I was still figuring out how not to veer left every time I blinked. The salt air got everywhere — lips, eyebrows, even inside my sleeves somehow.

We zipped past Conway Circuit and the wind picked up just enough to sting my cheeks. At one point, a pair of local kids waved from a fishing boat and I nearly lost balance waving back (Ben laughed — apparently that happens a lot). There’s this weird mix of adrenaline and calm when you’re skimming over turquoise water at speed; it’s loud but also kind of peaceful under the helmet. Didn’t expect to feel that.

I caught a flash of something dark under the surface — maybe a turtle? Hard to say, but our guide seemed convinced. He slowed us down for photos and pointed out little coves I’d never have noticed from land. The whole thing lasted about an hour but honestly it felt both longer and way too short. My hands were buzzing by the end, partly nerves, partly excitement. Still think about that first salty splash sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet ski tour of Airlie Beach bays

• Receive safety briefing
• Put on life jacket
• Ride Sea-Doo jet ski
• Explore bays and coastline
• Spot marine life like turtles
• Enjoy photo opportunities

Top questions

How long does the Airlie Beach jet ski safari last?

The guided jet ski safari lasts 60 minutes.

Is previous jet ski experience needed?

No experience is necessary; beginners are welcome.

Are life jackets provided on this tour?

Yes, life jackets and all safety equipment are included.

Can two people share one jet ski?

Yes, each jet ski can carry up to two passengers.

What marine life might we see during the tour?

You may encounter sea turtles or dugongs along the coastline.

What is the minimum age for drivers and passengers?

Drivers must be at least 16 years old; passengers at least 8 years old.

Is there a safety briefing before we start?

Yes, there is a full safety briefing before heading out on the water.

What’s included

Your day includes a 60-minute guided jet ski safari around Airlie Beach’s coastline with all safety gear—life jacket, equipment—and a proper safety briefing before you set off. GST is covered too; just show up ready for some salt spray and maybe a few laughs with your guide.