Magnetic Island 60 Minute Jetski Hire for 1-8 people

Imagine gliding across Horseshoe Bay, with the wind in your hair and views of rugged granite headlands and distant mountains all around. For just $149.34 per group, you get around 90 minutes of fun—including the briefing and safety instructions—riding a powerful jet ski in Australia’s largest hire zone. Whether you’re a family, a group of friends, or a couple seeking a bit of adventure, this experience offers a flexible, unguided ride that puts you in control of your own little watercraft.
One of the best parts? You don’t have to be a pro. The team provides a friendly, detailed safety briefing from locals who know the area well. Plus, the included GoPro cameras let you capture every splash and turn with superior stabilization—a bonus for those wanting to share their big splash moment later. On the flip side, keep in mind this is an unguided experience, so you’ll want to pay close attention during the briefing and ensure you feel comfortable handling a jet ski before you go.
What we love about this tour is how it balances adventure with safety and flexibility. The scenery is simply stunning—think towering granite headlands and mountain ranges—plus the potential to spot marine wildlife like turtles, dolphins, dugongs, and even humpback whales if you’re lucky. It’s also quite convenient, starting right at Horseshoe Bay and with the whole process well-organized. The only potential drawback? For those who prefer guided experiences or detailed commentary, this might feel a bit too freeform, but for many, that’s part of the charm.
This jet ski rental is best suited for adventurous types who can swim confidently and are comfortable handling a vehicle in open water. It’s especially appealing for families with older children, groups who want a quick thrill, or anyone eager to explore Magnetic Island from the water at their own pace.
Key Points
- Flexible unguided ride within Australia’s largest jet ski area in Horseshoe Bay
- Includes safety briefing, gear, and GoPro footage to capture your adventure
- Max group size of 8 allows for fun with friends or family
- Marine wildlife sightings highly likely in this protected bay
- For ages 6 and up, with specific weight restrictions for safety
- Booking well in advance helps secure your preferred time
Planning more time in Magnetic Island? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
A Deep Dive into the Magnetic Island Jet Ski Experience

When considering a jet ski adventure on Magnetic Island, it’s important to understand what makes this experience worthwhile—and what to watch out for. We’ve read the reviews, looked at the details, and pieced together a full picture to help you decide if this is the right fit.
Location and Setting
The experience begins at 7-10 Pacific Drive in Horseshoe Bay—a spot that’s both scenic and accessible, with nearby options for public transport and plenty of around-town amenities. Horseshoe Bay itself is famous for its dramatic granite headlands and mountain backdrop, making it a perfect launch point for water-bound fun.
The area allocated for jet ski rentals spans roughly 2 square kilometers, providing enough space for participants to enjoy high speeds and sharp turns without feeling crowded. Since the skis must stay within Horseshoe Bay, you’ll have a safe, controlled environment to explore—though the views of the rocky coastline and distant mountain ranges make it feel much larger.
The Setup and Safety
Every rider begins with a comprehensive land briefing. Here, you’ll fill out your details, sign a contract, and learn about local laws and safety procedures. This includes important points like speed limits (30 knots), minimum age requirements, and distances to keep if multiple skis are hired.
The staff’s friendly and professional demeanor shines through, making everyone feel at ease. They gear you up with life jackets and demonstrate how to operate the skis. We appreciated how they emphasize safety without making it feel overly strict—more like helpful guidance than a chore.
The Riding Experience
Once in the water, you’ll climb aboard your jet ski and get a quick demo. This demonstration, along with a few practice minutes, ensures even novices can feel confident. The actual ride lasts about 60 minutes, giving enough time to explore the bay, take in the views, and possibly spot marine wildlife.
The speed cap of 30 knots is more than enough for a thrilling ride—yes, you’ll hook turns and cruise past headlands, but not so fast that safety is compromised. A highlight for many is the ability to rotate multiple riders—up to 8—so everyone gets a turn and no one misses out on the fun.
What You Might Love
Reviewers frequently mention how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are—“Andrew was a gent,” one wrote—and how well-organized the whole process is. The GoPro footage is a big hit, with many describing it as “super cool” and a great way to remember the adventure. The views of Horseshoe Bay, framed by granite rocks and lush mountains, are truly spectacular, especially if you’re lucky enough to spot marine animals like dolphins or turtles during your ride.
Possible Drawbacks to Keep in Mind
Since the experience is unguided, you are responsible for your safety and navigation. If you’re not comfortable with driving a jet ski or unfamiliar with the area, this could be a concern. The restrictions on weight (max 120 kg for a single rider, 160 kg combined for two) and the age minimums mean this isn’t suitable for everyone, especially younger children or heavier individuals.
Plus, weather conditions can affect the experience—poor weather cancels activities—but the operator offers full refunds or rescheduling if needed.
Who Should Consider This?
This activity is perfect for adventurers with a sense of independence, teenagers with a craving for speed, or families with older children who can confidently swim and operate watercraft. It’s not ideal if you’re seeking a guided tour with commentary or if you prefer a more relaxed, scenic cruise.
The value for the price is quite good, considering the high-quality gear, safety briefings, and the opportunity to explore such a scenic bay at your own pace. Many reviewers comment on how well-run and professional the operation is, making it suitable even for first-time jet skiers.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This?

If you’re after a thrilling, flexible water adventure with stunning scenery, this jet ski hire is a fantastic choice. It offers a perfect blend of independent exploration within a protected and safe environment. The inclusion of GoPro footage and the beautiful backdrop make it memorable—especially for those who love a bit of adrenaline with scenic reward.
Travelers who appreciate well-organized, safety-conscious operators and enjoy wildlife spotting will find this experience particularly rewarding. It’s also great for groups who want to share fun moments together without the constraints of guided tours.
However, if you prefer guided commentary or a more leisurely cruise, this might not be your best fit. Also, keep in mind the weight and age restrictions—they’re there for safety, but they do limit who can participate.
In the end, this jet ski experience offers excellent value and a memorable splash of adventure in the heart of Magnetic Island’s stunning waters. It’s an activity that truly allows you to see the bay from an exciting new perspective—and who wouldn’t want that?
FAQs

- What is included in the jet ski hire?
You get a 60-minute unguided ride, safety briefing, life jackets, and the option to rent a GoPro camera to record your adventure. - Can I bring children?
Children aged 6 and older can ride as passengers with an adult. Those aged 16 and 17 can ride solo with proof of age, but must not ride with underage passengers. - What are the age and weight restrictions?
Minimum age for a passenger with an adult is six. The maximum combined weight for two riders is 160kg, and a single rider can weigh up to 120kg. - Do I need previous experience?
No, but you should be confident swimming and comfortable handling a jet ski after the safety briefing. - Is this activity guided?
No, it’s unguided, so you are responsible for navigating within the bay following the safety instructions provided. - What speed will I be riding at?
Speed is limited to 30 knots by Australian law, which is fast enough for fun but safe. - How long does the entire experience last?
About 90 minutes total: including briefing, gearing up, and the 60-minute ride. - What should I wear?
Bring swimwear, and wear your life jacket provided. Sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended. - Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled. - How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 28 days in advance to secure their preferred time slot.
Whether you’re after a quick thrill, a chance to see marine wildlife, or simply want to enjoy the gorgeous scenery from the water, this jet ski hire offers a flexible, fun-filled way to experience Magnetic Island. Just remember to follow safety instructions, dress for adventure, and enjoy the splashy freedom of riding your own machine in one of Australia’s most scenic bays.
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