Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour & Free Second Rider

Summary

Jet ski adventure circling Key West with local stories and ocean spray

You’ll ride high-performance jet skis around Key West’s full coastline with a local guide pointing out quirky sights and sharing stories. Expect salty air, laughter during driver swaps at sandbars, and stops at places like Southernmost Point—all with shuttle pickup included. It’s fast-paced but somehow relaxing too.

What’s the experience like?

We were already half-soaked by the time our guide, Mike, shouted over the engines—something about keeping left of the marker buoys. The sun was sharp but not punishing, just bouncing off the water in that way it does in Key West. My partner gripped my waist tighter than I expected (she claims it was excitement, not nerves). The jet ski felt lighter than I thought it would, almost skimming, and every salty splash tasted like summer. We’d barely started and my sunglasses were already streaked with saltwater.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much—especially when we tried switching drivers at the sandbar. Mike just grinned and said, “Happens all the time.” There was this moment where everything went quiet except for a couple of gulls and the low hum of other jet skis drifting nearby. We could see the Southernmost Point bobbing in the distance—somehow smaller from out here. A few locals waved from their boats; one guy tossed us a thumbs-up as he sped past. It smelled like sunscreen and wet rope, which sounds weird but actually made me smile.

The whole loop around Key West took maybe an hour and a half, but it felt longer—in a good way. We zipped past old submarine pens (Mike threw in some history I promptly forgot), then slowed near mangroves where you could see tiny fish darting under the surface. Switching drivers again was easier this time, though I nearly lost my flip-flop to the current. By the end I was sunburned in odd places and kind of tired but didn’t really want it to be over yet. There’s something about seeing Key West from out on the water that sticks with you—I still think about that view back toward shore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet ski tour around Key West

• Check in one hour before tour
• Receive jet ski instructions
• Ride jet ski with guide
• Visit Southernmost Point
• Explore Historic Key West Harbor
• See Submarine Pens
• Stop at secluded sandbar
• Enjoy scenic Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary
• Switch drivers if desired
• Return to base
• Use freshwater showers

Top questions

How long is the Key West jet ski tour?

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours and covers 28 miles around Key West.

Is there an extra fee for bringing a second rider?

No, a second rider can join for free on the same jet ski.

Do I need boating experience to join?

No prior experience is needed; guides provide instructions before starting.

What do I need to bring for this jet ski tour?

A bathing suit, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a valid photo ID are recommended.

Are there age restrictions for driving?

You must be at least 16 to drive with an adult passenger; solo drivers must be 18 or older.

Is hotel pickup included?

Yes, complimentary shuttle pickup is provided before your scheduled departure.

Will we stop during the tour?

Yes, there are stops at spots like sandbars where you can switch drivers or take photos.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes, safety gear including life jackets is included for all riders.

What’s included

Your day includes use of brand new high-performance jet skis for two people at no extra charge, guided by friendly locals who share stories along the way. Complimentary shuttle pickup gets you there stress-free; after instruction you’ll circle all of Key West with stops at famous landmarks like Southernmost Point and hidden sandbars before rinsing off in fresh water showers back on shore.