Gold Coast: Jet Ski Safari with Island Stops & Local Guide

Summary

Jet ski adventure weaving Gold Coast islands with local guide

You’ll learn to ride a jet ski with a local guide right off Gold Coast’s sandy shores, zip past islands like Crab Island and South Stradbroke, and feel that salty wind in your face. Includes all safety gear plus waterproof storage for your stuff — just show up ready for a little adrenaline (and maybe some laughs at your own expense).

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, mate — you’ll get the hang of it in two minutes,” our instructor grinned as he handed me the life jacket. I could smell the salt in the air before we even got near the water, and honestly, my nerves were louder than the jet skis at first. The safety talk was quick but not rushed — just enough to make me feel like I wasn’t about to embarrass myself in front of a bunch of teenagers (and my partner, who looked way too confident for someone who’s never ridden one either).

The first few seconds out on the water were wobbly — I’m not gonna lie. But there’s something about feeling that engine kick under you, zipping along the edge of South Stradbroke Island, that makes you forget you’re supposed to be nervous. Our guide kept waving us forward, pointing out where Crab Island was (I’d only ever heard of it from fishing stories), and then we shot past Wave Break Island so fast I barely caught the sun glinting off all those anchored boats. There was this weird mix of sunscreen, seaweed, and petrol in the air — not unpleasant exactly, just very… Gold Coast.

I tried yelling something to my partner but she just laughed and gunned her jet ski ahead. At one point I caught sight of some kids waving from a pontoon and nearly lost my balance waving back — classic me. The whole thing lasted half an hour but it felt both longer and shorter than that somehow. By the time we swung back toward shore, I had salt on my lips and windburn on my cheeks. I still think about how wide open everything felt out there; it’s hard to explain unless you’ve done it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet Ski Safari Adventure

• Arrive 30 minutes early
• Attend safety induction
• Practice jet ski riding
• Enjoy 30-minute jet ski safari

Top questions

How long is the Gold Coast Jet Ski Safari?

The tour lasts 30 minutes on the water.

Is there a minimum age or height for passengers?

Passengers must be at least 7 years old and 120cm tall.

Do I need experience to join this jet ski tour?

No experience is required; beginners are welcome with a safety induction included.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, pickup is not included but public transport options are nearby.

Can children drive their own jet ski?

Children aged 12-15 can drive with an adult; 16+ can drive alone.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, all safety equipment including life jackets is provided.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, wheelchair access is available.

What’s included

Your session includes a local guide who leads you through a quick safety induction before heading out for 30 minutes on the water. All safety gear like life jackets and wind jackets are provided, plus waterproof containers for your valuables. A professional photographer captures moments along the way so you don’t have to worry about your phone getting soaked.