Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Sandbar Stop

Imagine cruising around Key West on a brand new, high-speed jet ski, feeling the wind in your hair, with guides leading the way through mangroves and open water. This 1.5-hour adventure from Sunset Watersports is packed with sights, thrills, and opportunities to cool off in crystal-clear waters. Priced at $164 per group of up to two people, this tour offers a fantastic way to see the island from a fresh perspective—on the water, not just from the shore.

What really makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—with two guides ensuring everyone gets their preferred pace—and its notable safety emphasis, especially considering the popularity and power of these jet skis. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to snap memorable photos at the southernmost point and enjoy a relaxing break at a local sandbar perfect for swimming or just lounging. The free second rider adds excellent value, allowing two people to share the fun without doubling the cost.

That said, this activity isn’t for everyone. You need to be at least 16 years old to drive, and drivers born after January 1, 1988, must have completed a Florida Boater’s Safety Test—a quick, easy online requirement. It’s also worth noting that pregnant women and those with mobility issues might want to skip this one, as it involves standing on a moving jet ski.

Designed for beginners and experienced riders alike, this tour is ideal if you’re seeking an active, memorable experience on the water that mixes adventure with scenic sightseeing. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to add some adrenaline to your trip, this jet ski experience offers good value and a lot of fun.

Key Points

Flexible Pacing: Guides ensure everyone can enjoy at their own speed, perfect for families or mixed-ability groups.
Safety Focused: Two guides and modern safety equipment provide peace of mind.
Great Value: Free second rider and included gas make this a cost-effective option.
Authentic Views: See Key West from the water, including the southernmost point and mangrove islands.
Limited Age & Certification Requirements: Drivers need to be 16+ and have a Boater’s Safety Test if born after 1988.
Ideal for Active Travelers: Suitable for beginners and seasoned riders who want a thrill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Jet Ski Tour

While in Key West, here are other experiences we've covered

Key West 90-Minute Jet Ski Tour

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your adventure begins at the meeting point, which can vary based on the option you select. After a brief safety orientation, you’ll suit up with provided safety gear—life jackets and helmets—and hop onto a brand-new jet ski. For many, the first impression is the power and speed of these Yamaha Waverunners, which are lauded for their reliability and performance.

Your guides—often described as knowledgeable and friendly—will set the tone for the trip. One will lead at a brisk pace for thrill-seekers, while the other stays back with those wanting a more relaxed experience. The 28-mile loop around Key West brings into view mangrove-covered islands, ocean vistas, and the iconic southernmost point from the water.

Highlights of the Tour

Speed through open water: For those who love adrenaline, the jet skis are fast and responsive. Several reviews mention feeling the full throttle and enjoying high-speed runs along the coast.
Sandbar stop: Midway, the tour halts at a local sandbar—a perfect spot for swimming, relaxing, or snapping photos. Many guests mention how clear and inviting the water is, making it an ideal break from the ride.
Photo opportunities: From the water, you’ll get a unique perspective of the southernmost point—a postcard shot for sure—and a chance to capture the beauty of the surrounding islands.
Guides’ insights: Tour guides are not just safety personnel—they are also informative storytellers. Reviewers praise guides like Dakota for being “super informative” and entertaining, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts about 90 minutes, giving plenty of time to enjoy speeding across the water and relaxing at the sandbar. You’ll want to arrive at least an hour before departure to check in, get geared up, and listen to safety instructions.

Participants must bring:
– A passport or ID (for age verification)
– Swimwear (since swimming is part of the fun)
– Sunscreen to protect against the Florida sun

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This activity appeals most to adventure-loving travelers who are comfortable on water and at least 16 years of age. It’s especially appreciated by families, couples, or groups with mixed skill levels, thanks to the two-guide system that caters to everyone’s pace. First-timers will find the guides’ patience reassuring, while seasoned riders will enjoy the thrill of high speed.

While you're exploring Key West, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Value Compared to Cost

At $164 per group, the tour is quite reasonable considering it includes all safety gear, gas, and a second rider free. For just over an hour and a half of excitement, it offers an excellent blend of adventure and sightseeing—much more memorable than simply renting a jet ski on your own, where safety and local knowledge might be less prioritized.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

Guests consistently mention the friendly guides and well-maintained equipment as highlights. One reviewer noted, “The guides were very attentive to making everyone have a great time,” and many rave about the stunning water views. First-timers often express relief and joy at how easy it was to learn and how safe they felt during the ride. The ability to go at your own pace, whether fast or slow, is frequently cited as a major plus.

Downsides to Consider

The mandatory Boater’s Safety Test for drivers born after 1988 is a quick prerequisite, but it does add a small step before the fun. Also, since the tour involves standing on a moving jet ski, pregnant women or those with mobility issues should consider whether this activity suits them. Weather can occasionally cut the trip short or affect the experience—reviewers have noted instances of weather-related cancellations or shortened rides, but safety always comes first.

Who Will Love This Tour?

Travelers craving adrenaline and scenic views will find this jet ski tour hits the spot. It’s especially great for first-time jet skiers thanks to the guides’ patience, but seasoned riders will also appreciate the speed and freedom to go fast. Families with older teenagers, couples looking for a unique way to see Key West, or groups celebrating a special occasion will all find value here.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized, safety-conscious activities in a beautiful setting, this tour should be on your list. It combines adventure with sightseeing in a way that few other water-based activities in Key West do, offering a genuine sense of exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners? Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for beginners, with guides helping everyone feel comfortable.
What is the minimum age to drive a jet ski? You must be at least 16 years old to drive, with drivers born after 1988 needing to complete a quick safety test.
Can I ride with a friend? Absolutely. The tour includes a free second rider on each jet ski, making it perfect for sharing the fun.
What should I bring? Bring a passport or ID, swimwear, and sunscreen. It’s also wise to arrive an hour early.
Are there any health restrictions? Pregnant women and individuals with mobility issues should consider if they’re comfortable with standing on a jet ski.
What happens if the weather is bad? The tour can be shortened or canceled for safety reasons, but full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.
How long is the tour? The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including safety briefings and stops.
Where do I meet? The meeting point varies depending on the booking option, but details are provided upon reservation.

Final Thoughts

This Key West jet ski tour offers a lively, scenic, and well-organized outing that’s perfect for those looking to add a splash of adventure to their trip. The speed, scenic stops, and friendly guides combine to make a memorable experience that balances thrills with safety. With good reviews across the board and excellent value—including a free second rider and included gas—it’s a smart choice for active travelers eager to see the island from the water.

While weather can occasionally impact the experience, the overall feedback suggests that most participants leave with big smiles and stories to tell. It’s especially suited for families, couples, and groups who appreciate an adventure that’s easy to participate in, regardless of prior experience.

If you are looking for a fun, scenic, and safe way to explore Key West’s waters and get your adrenaline pumping, this jet ski tour is worth considering. Just remember to bring some sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and a willingness to go fast!