San Diego Bay: Jet Boat Ride with Spins & City Views

Summary

Fast spins city skyline salty air on san diego bay

You’ll feel pure adrenaline as you speed across San Diego Bay on a jet boat ride—with wild spins, city skyline views, salty wind in your face, and close-ups of iconic ships like the U.S.S. Midway. Ponchos keep you mostly dry (but not your shoes), and your local captain keeps things lively all along the waterfront.

What’s the experience like?

I thought I was just signing up for a quick spin around San Diego Bay—honestly, I figured it’d be like any other boat ride. But as soon as we stepped onto that bright yellow jet boat and the engines kicked in, it felt different. The captain (his name was Mark, I think?) grinned at us and handed out these crinkly plastic ponchos. “You’ll want these,” he said. I laughed but took one anyway. The smell of sunscreen and saltwater was everywhere—plus something sharp from the fuel that stuck to my nose for a minute.

The first few minutes were almost gentle—just gliding past the U.S.S. Midway’s hulking shape and the old Star of India ship. Then Mark cranked it up and suddenly we were flying across the bay, wind whipping so hard my cheeks hurt from smiling (and maybe yelling). I could see Coronado Island off to the right, sunlight bouncing off the bridge in that way that makes you squint even with sunglasses on. At one point we spun all the way around—like a full 360—and water sprayed up over everyone’s heads. My friend tried to film but just ended up with a video of her own scream.

There were families and some teenagers onboard too—one kid kept pointing at the Navy helicopters over North Island Naval Air Station, shouting facts to anyone who’d listen. It made me realize how much is packed into this little stretch of water: cruise ships docked near downtown, military bases, old ships mixed with new ones. The whole thing only lasted about half an hour but honestly it felt longer—in a good way. My hair was plastered to my forehead by the end and I couldn’t stop laughing about how soaked my shoes got despite the poncho (so yeah, don’t bring anything you care about unless it’s in a ziplock).

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — San Diego Bay jet boat ride

• Board dual-engine jet boat
• Zoom around San Diego Bay
• Enjoy city skyline views
• See Coronado Island and bridge
• Spot Midway ship and cruise terminal
• Experience 360-degree spins
• Feel the roaring wind

Top questions

How long does the San Diego Bay jet boat ride last?

The jet boat ride lasts approximately 30 minutes.

Will I get wet during the jet boat ride?

Yes, passengers may get wet; plastic ponchos are provided but shoes may still get soaked.

Are there height or age restrictions for this tour?

Passengers must be at least 48 inches tall; children must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this jet boat ride suitable for people with back or heart problems?

No, it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers.

What sights will I see during the San Diego Bay jet boat tour?

You’ll see San Diego Skyline, U.S.S. Midway Aircraft Carrier, Star of India ship, Maritime Museum ships, Coronado Bridge, North Island Naval Air Station.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the departure point.

Are valuables safe to bring on board?

No, it’s advised not to bring valuables as you may get wet; ziplock bags are provided for small items.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible if you provide your own assistance helper.

What’s included

Your ticket covers a 30-minute dual-engine jet boat ride around San Diego Bay with plastic ponchos and ziplock bags provided to help keep you dry. You’ll catch waterfront sights including downtown San Diego’s skyline, U.S.S. Midway Aircraft Carrier, Star of India and other Maritime Museum ships, North Island Naval Air Station and Coronado Bridge before heading back ashore still grinning from all those spins.