Key West: Sea Doo Jet Ski Tour & Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Jet ski the blue waters of Key West past dolphins and iconic sights

You’ll feel your heart race as you speed around Key West’s coastline on a Sea Doo jet ski tour with a local guide. Glide past famous spots like Mallory Square and Fort Zachary Taylor, stop to swim in turquoise waters, and maybe spot dolphins or sea turtles along the way. It’s equal parts excitement and pure Florida sunshine.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was nervous about the whole jet ski thing — I mean, I’d never driven one before. But as soon as we met our guide near the docks in Key West, his easy laugh kind of put me at ease. He handed us these bright life jackets that smelled faintly like sunscreen and saltwater (not sure if that’s comforting or just very Florida), and ran through the basics. The Sea Doos looked brand new — glossy and a little intimidating — but he promised they were “the smoothest ride on the island.” So yeah, I believed him.

The first few minutes were a blur of spray and sunlight. My partner shouted something over the engine noise — probably “slow down!” — but honestly, once you get going, it’s hard not to grin like an idiot. We zipped out past Mallory Square, which looks totally different from the water, then cruised along toward the Southernmost Point buoy. There were pelicans skimming low over the waves and some local guys fishing off a sandbar who waved as we passed (I tried waving back but nearly lost my balance; our guide just grinned).

We stopped by Fort Zachary Taylor for a breather. The water there is this wild turquoise color you almost don’t believe until you see it up close. Someone spotted a dolphin fin slicing through the surface — quick flash, gone again. Our guide said sometimes sea turtles pop up too if you’re lucky. We got to jump in for a swim (the water was cooler than I expected) before heading back around the island’s quieter side where things felt almost silent except for distant boat engines and gulls overhead.

I still think about that feeling — wind in my face, salt drying on my skin, seeing Key West from this totally different angle. It wasn’t perfect (I definitely swallowed some seawater), but honestly? That made it better somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 90-minute Key West Jet Ski tour

• Board brand-new Sea-Doo Jet Skis
• Begin 28-mile scenic coastal ride
• Pass Southernmost Point buoy
• View Fort Zachary Taylor beaches
• Spot dolphins and sea turtles
• Stop at sandbar to swim
• Return to starting point

Top questions

How long is the Key West jet ski tour?

The Sea Doo jet ski tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, both seasoned riders and first-timers are welcome. Guides provide instruction before departure.

What wildlife might we see during the tour?

You may spot bottlenose dolphins or sea turtles in their natural habitat during your ride.

Are there any stops during the jet ski tour?

Yes, there are several stops at points of interest such as sandbars or beaches where you can swim or rest.

How many people can ride each jet ski?

Each jet ski can accommodate two adults or one adult with two children (not exceeding 460lbs/208kg).

Do I need any special license to operate a jet ski?

If born after January 1, 1988, you must bring valid photo ID and pass a Temporary Safe Boating Test (for a small fee).

Are photos included in the tour?

Photos of your experience are available for purchase at the end of the tour.

Is hotel pickup included?

No, hotel pickup is not included; guests meet at the departure point in Key West.

What’s included

Your day includes use of top-of-the-line Sea Doo jet skis for up to two adults per vehicle on this scenic 28-mile guided loop around Key West’s coastline, several stops at local landmarks like Fort Zachary Taylor or sandbars for swimming breaks with possible dolphin sightings along the way, plus professional guides throughout—photos are available to purchase after your ride.