Take a jet ski in the sea can be an exciting experience, as well as allowing you to engage in recreational activities, water sports and even activities such as fishing. But its use also implies certain risks and responsibilities, so as a user you must take into account a series of factors.
In many countries, as is the case of Spain, to be able to drive a jet ski you need at least the Navigation License or the title of skipper of nautical motorcycle. It is true that in the case that the vehicle is rented, many companies offer low-power motorcycles that do not require the specific qualification, but it must be taken into account that they are usually limited in speed and also in navigation area. In addition, the age must be verified that the civil liability insurance of the motorcycle is in force.
In parallel, one must be aware that such a motorcycle cannot be used just anywhere. It is necessary to respect the bathing areasthese are usually marked with yellow buoys, so it is not allowed to pass less than 200 meters from the coast if there is no nautical channel. It is also advisable to keep a minimum distance from other boats, bathers and motorcycles, as well as it is forbidden to maneuver at high speed near the coast or other people. As a user, it is mandatory to always wear a safety vest.
In addition, common sense must not be lost sight of. Therefore, do not drink alcohol if you are going to drive a jet ski, it is not advisable to use it if there is a red flag on the beach and you must be respectful of the marine environment.
In the Balearic Islands, driving a jet ski requires compliance with both national and regional regulations to guarantee not only safety, but also legality and respect for the environment. For this, as mentioned above, it is essential to have the Navigation License or higher titles such as PNB, PER, etc. in the case of private use or rental for days. If this is for hours or group excursions, no qualifications are required, but it is necessary to be accompanied by an authorized instructor.
The minimum age to operate a jet ski is 18 years old or 16 with written authorization from parents or legal guardians. In addition, the vehicle must be registered and have a visible license plate, in addition to having valid civil liability insurance, and carry on board the Navigation License (skipper’s document) and that of the motorcycle issued by the Captaincy. Regarding navigation zones and permitted speeds, it is forbidden to navigate in bathing areas. Within the first mile (≈1,8 km) from the coast, the maximum speed is 10 knots (≈18 km/h), and in the first 2 kilometers only 20 km/h. In harbors and buoyed areas, you cannot exceed 3-5 knots and you must always maintain a minimum distance of 50 meters from other vessels, floating elements or buoys.
In addition, this summer, the Local Police and the Civil Guard patrol the beaches on jet skis to control infractions.
Minor infractions
littering, dumping, cleaning the hull or waste from the ship or not carrying the mandatory documentation on board (insurance, certification and certificate of seaworthiness) may result in penalties according to the Consolidated Text of the Law of State Ports and Merchant Marine. Serious infringements driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or psychotropic substances; endangering people or the environment (sailing outside marked areas, dumping polluting waste, anchoring in posidonia meadows…); driving without lights or established signaling.
In the case of Ibiza, Capitanía Marítima has opened numerous proceedings for lack of qualifications, certificate, improper maneuvers and excessive speed, with fines that can reach up to 180,000 euros. It is worth remembering that, in protected areas such as the Natural Park of Ses Salines, water skiing (or jet skis) is prohibited.
For the full article, please visit Diario de Ibiza website here.