Using jet-skis and personal watercraft responsibly
As a personal watercraft user, you have a responsibility towards yourself, your passengers (if carried) and to other water users.
Registration and insurance
You must register your jet-ski at the Marine Leisure Centre before you can use it. You must also insure your jet-ski before use as well.
Before going out on a jet-ski
Before you go out on your jet-ski, you should do the following:
- check the weather forecast
- check on local conditions, eg tide times, rocks, piers
- tell someone ashore when and where you are going and when you will be returning
- log a traffic report with Jersey Coastguard on VHF channel 82 or by telephone +44 (0) 1534 447705 if you are making a passage or intend to be out for a long time
- check the condition of your craft and that the power unit has been well maintained
- park your vehicle and trailer with care and consideration. Do not obstruct access for other users or the emergency services
Speed limits
A 5 knot speed limit applies in the following areas:
- within 200 yards of any shore line, harbour and pier
- any waters of St Aubin’s Bay that lie generally to the west of a line that is drawn from the south end of La Haule Slip straight to Platte Rock beacon (being the beacon at Platte Rock, which lies north-east of Grosse Rock) and from there straight to Point de Bût
- any waters of Bouley Bay that lie to the southern side of the shortest line drawn between Vicard Point and La Tour de Rozel
- any waters of St Brelade’s Bay that lie to the northern side of the shortest line drawn between Grosse Tête and La Cotte Point
Please refer to General Direction 01 – Harbours (Inshore Safety) (Jersey) Regulations 2012 (Revised) for more information.
Clothing and equipment
You should wear the following items when out on your jet-ski:
- buoyancy aid
- gloves
- helmet and goggles
- protective footwear
- wetsuit / dry-suit
You should ensure the engine kill cord is fitted and connected to the craft and yourself. Always carry a spare.
Rules and regulations
- check information notices at access points and observe the local by-laws
- where applicable, use buoyed channels and designated zones
- observe local speed limits
- when fuelling, take care to ensure that fuel and oil are not released into the environment. Pollution of beaches, banks and the water from oil and rubbish is an offence
- don’t disturb wildlife, as it may be vulnerable if it is disturbed. You should be aware of any sensitive areas and keep well clear of them
Other people
- if possible, go out with other people so you’re better able to cope with any problems
- keep a look out for other craft and keep clear of any other restricted areas, eg bathers, water skiers, surfers
- be considerate to others and make sure that engine noise is kept to a minimum
- remember that serious accidents can occur as a result of small children playing with the controls of a personal watercraft
Training and courses
You can do the following to ensure that you are as safe as possible when using your jet-ski:
- get some training. For information on where training is available in your locality and how to join a recognised club, contact the Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
- personal watercraft users should be able to swim and should also be happy when in the water wearing a buoyancy aid
- familiarise yourself with your craft. Learn how to operate it safely and with consideration to others ashore and afloat
- consult the operator’s manual provided by the manufacturers, particularly with regard to the maintenance of the power unit
- before allowing a friend to use your craft, make sure they know how to use it properly
- know your limitations