First Time on a Jet Ski in Palma? Here’s the Complete Beginner’s Guide

Good news: Palma is one of the best places in the Mediterranean to try it.

In this guide we’ll walk through everything a beginner needs to know before booking a jet ski in Palma: rules, safety basics, what to bring, how a typical tour works and a few pro tips so you can enjoy the experience like you’ve done it a hundred times before.

1. Do I Need a License to Drive a Jet Ski in Palma?

This is usually the first question that appears in Google searches like jet ski Palma no license.

For most guided jet ski tours in Palma:

• No license is required.

• You ride in small groups following an instructor.

• The instructor explains the rules, shows you how to accelerate, steer and brake, and keeps an eye on the group at all times.

For independent rentals (without an instructor) Spanish regulations are stricter and usually a nautical license is required. Most visitors choose the guided tour option because it’s easier, safer and still gives you plenty of freedom and speed.

2. What to Expect From a Beginner Jet Ski Tour

Every company is different, but at Palma Jetski a standard beginner-friendly tour usually follows this structure:

1. Check-in and safety briefing (10–15 minutes)

   • You sign the waiver, leave any valuables in a safe area and get your life jacket.

   • The instructor explains the route, local rules and basic signals (stop, slow down, follow closer, etc.).

2. Basic instruction on the jet ski (5–10 minutes)

   • How to start/stop the engine.

   • How to accelerate and keep a comfortable speed.

   • How to turn safely and what to do if you fall into the water.

3. Ride out of the harbour (5–10 minutes)

   • The group leaves slowly, in line behind the instructor, until you are in open water.

4. Free riding & photo spots (20–40 minutes depending on the tour)

   • Once you’re outside the harbour limits, the instructor allows higher speeds.

   • You stop at scenic spots along Palma’s coastline for a quick swim, photos or to change drivers.

5. Return and wrap-up (5–10 minutes)

   • The group returns calmly to the harbour.

   • You hand back your equipment and, in many cases, can purchase tour photos or videos.

From check-in to goodbye, expect around 45–60 minutes for short tours and up to 90 minutes for longer experiences.

3. Is Jet Skiing Safe for Beginners?

With the right operator and basic rules, jet skiing is a very safe activity even for first-timers. Here’s what makes it beginner-friendly:

• Mandatory life jackets for all riders.

• Speed control by the instructor, especially near the harbour and other boats.

• Modern jet skis with good stability and power that can be adjusted to the group’s level.

• Clear safety briefing before entering the water.

To keep it safe and enjoyable, beginners should:

• Always follow the instructor’s signals.

• Keep a safe distance from other jet skis.

• Avoid sharp turns at full speed until you feel fully confident.

• Never remove the safety lanyard from your wrist or life jacket.

If you can ride a bicycle and feel comfortable in the water, you can learn to handle a jet ski in minutes.

4. What Should I Wear and Bring?

Another common search is what to wear jet ski Mallorca. The answer is simple:

Wear:

• Swimsuit or swim shorts

• Rash guard or T-shirt (recommended for sun and comfort)

• Water shoes or flip-flops (you’ll leave them on land before riding)

Bring:

• Towel and/or a change of clothes

• Sunscreen (high SPF, applied at least 15–20 minutes before the tour)

• Sunglasses with strap if you want to wear them on the jet ski

• A waterproof phone case if you plan to bring your phone

Most companies, including Palma Jetski, provide:

• Life jacket

• Fuel

• Basic insurance

• Lockers or a safe area for your belongings

You generally don’t need to bring your own equipment unless you prefer a personal life jacket.

5. Can Two People Ride on One Jet Ski?

Yes. Most jet ski rentals in Palma offer double jet skis, which are perfect for couples, friends or parents with older children.

A few things to keep in mind:

• There is a maximum weight limit per jet ski for safety reasons.

• You can switch drivers during the tour at designated stops.

• The price is usually per jet ski, not per person, which makes it a very affordable activity when shared.

For families with younger kids, always check the minimum age to ride as a passenger; it usually ranges from 6 to 8 years depending on the operator and sea conditions.

6. Best Time of Day and Year to Book

If you search for best time for jet ski tour in Mallorca, you’ll see the same pattern: mornings and late afternoons are ideal.

• Morning tours often have calmer sea conditions, less boat traffic and cooler temperatures.

• Late afternoon tours can offer amazing light and sunsets over Palma’s bay.

In terms of season:

• The main jet ski season in Palma runs roughly from April to October, with July and August being the busiest months.

• Outside these months, operations depend on weather and demand, so it’s always best to check availability in advance.

7. How Much Does a Jet Ski Tour in Palma Cost?

Prices vary depending on duration and whether you book in high or low season, but generally:

• Short tours (30 minutes): great introduction, lower price.

• Standard tours (45–60 minutes): best value for most beginners.

• Longer tours (75–90 minutes or more): ideal if you want to explore more of the coastline and feel very confident on the jet ski.

Because many operators charge per jet ski, a 2-person rental usually works out cheaper per person than many other activities on the island.

8. How to Choose the Right Jet Ski Company in Palma

When you type jet ski rental Palma into Google, you’ll see several options. To choose the best one, look for:

1. Clear safety information on their website: licenses, insurance, safety rules.

2. Recent reviews mentioning the staff, condition of the jet skis and overall experience.

3. Transparent pricing with no hidden fees for fuel or insurance.

4. Good location with easy access from Palma or nearby resorts.

5. Photos and videos of real tours, not just stock images.

At Palma Jetski we focus on small groups, clear communication in English and Spanish, and routes that combine speed with the best views of Palma’s coastline.

9. Quick Tips to Enjoy Your First Jet Ski Experience

To finish, here are a few simple tips that make a big difference:

• Arrive 15–20 minutes early so you’re not rushed during the briefing.

• If you wear contact lenses, consider tight-fitting goggles to protect your eyes from splashes.

• Keep your arms relaxed and look where you want to go; the jet ski will follow your line of sight.

• Don’t worry if you feel nervous at the start—almost everyone does. After a few minutes you’ll be smiling and asking for more speed.

• If you fall in the water, stay calm, climb back on the jet ski as shown in the briefing, and continue the tour.

Ready to Book Your First Jet Ski in Palma?

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a full summer holiday, a jet ski tour in Palma de Mallorca is one of those experiences that stay with you long after you leave the island.

If you want a beginner-friendly tour with clear instructions, modern jet skis and routes designed to show you the best of Palma’s coastline, booking in advance is highly recommended—especially in high season.

See you on the water.