Turks & Caicos: Shipwreck Jet Ski Tour to La Famille Express

Summary

Jet ski out to La Famille Express shipwreck from Providenciales with a local guide

You’ll ride a jet ski from Providenciales out across calm blue water to circle the La Famille Express shipwreck with a local guide leading the way. Feel salt spray on your skin, listen to seabirds on rusted rails, and laugh as you race back toward shore—this is one of those Turks & Caicos moments that lingers long after you’re dry again.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I was a little nervous when we first pulled up at Mako Watersports in Providenciales. The jet skis looked sleeker than anything I’d tried before, and the water was that weirdly clear blue you only see in travel magazines. Our guide, Andre, handed us dry bags (which I immediately fumbled) and made some joke about not dropping my phone in the ocean — fair warning. We set off with this salty wind on our faces, following Andre’s hand signals as he zig-zagged ahead. It’s only about two miles out to the La Famille Express shipwreck, but it feels like you’re leaving everything behind for a bit.

The shipwreck itself just rises out of these shallow turquoise waters — kind of rusty and stubborn-looking, like it’s refusing to sink. Andre told us a bit about its story (something about storms and Russian cargo? I probably missed half of it over the engine noise). We circled around slowly. There were birds perched on the rails and you could hear them over the slap of water against metal. For some reason, I kept thinking how quiet it felt out there, even with all our laughter echoing back off the hull.

I tried to imagine what it must’ve been like when that ship first washed up here. You can’t really get onto it — not safely anyway — but just floating nearby is surreal enough. The sun was sharp overhead but there was this coolness coming off the sea, and my hands felt gritty from salt spray by then. On the way back, Andre let us open up the throttle a bit more (I might’ve yelled), and we raced each other until my arms were sore. I still think about that view looking back at the wreck shrinking behind us — kind of haunting in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet Ski tour to shipwreck

• Arrive at Mako Watersports
• Receive safety briefing
• Drive jet ski to shipwreck
• Explore La Famille Express shipwreck
• Return to shore

Top questions

How far is the La Famille Express shipwreck from Providenciales?

The shipwreck is located about 2 miles offshore from Providenciales.

Do I need experience to join this jet ski tour?

No prior experience is required, but travelers should have moderate physical fitness.

Can two people ride on one jet ski?

Yes, each jet ski can hold up to 2 passengers with a maximum combined weight of 400 lbs.

What age do you have to be to drive your own jet ski?

You must be at least 17 years old to drive alone; riders 15 or older can operate if an adult is also on board.

Is there storage for personal items during the tour?

Yes, small dry bags and compartments are provided for storage during your ride.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Mako Watersports in Providenciales.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a jet ski with space for two people (up to 400 lbs), small dry bags and compartments for your belongings, guidance from a local expert throughout the trip out to La Famille Express shipwreck, and easy access from nearby public transport if needed.