Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Flyboarding is an activity in which you stand on a platform with foot bindings, connected by a hose to a jet ski. The water jet pushes you upwards and lets you rise above the surface. In sessions for tourists, an instructor controls the power from the jet ski and gives you instructions by radio or hand signals.
It is short and intense, and the first session is usually mostly about learning to keep your balance. This page explains what to expect and what to ask.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Rising above the water on a platform powered by a jet ski |
| Check-in | The instructor manages the power |
| Time in the water | Usually between 10 and 20 minutes. Depends on the company |
| Learning curve | The first minutes are full of falls; most people manage to rise by the end |
| Equipment | Life jacket, helmet and sometimes a wetsuit |
| Requirements | Age and weight depend on the company; you must be able to swim |
| Area | South coast, in buoyed areas |
| Price | Depends on the duration |
What happens
- Briefing on land: posture, how to tilt your body and how to fall.
- Getting into the water with a life jacket and helmet.
- First attempts: you rise a little and fall into the water several times.
- Balance: following the instructor’s guidance, you rise a few metres.
- End of the session and return.
What to expect in your first session
- You will fall into the water, and that is normal.
- Most of the effort is in your legs and your balance.
- Time flies: ask how many minutes of actual flying you get.
Who it suits
- Anyone looking for a short, different experience.
- Fit people with good balance.
- Anyone who does not mind falling into the water.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Anyone who cannot swim.
- Back, neck or knee problems.
- Pregnancy.
- The company’s age or weight limits.
How to choose well
- How many minutes in the water?
- Qualified instructor and radio communication?
- Which ages and weights are accepted?
- Are a helmet and life jacket included?
- Is there video or photos?
- What happens in bad weather?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Flyboard and jet ski | Included | — |
| Instructor | Included | Qualification |
| Life jacket and helmet | Included | Sizes |
| Wetsuit | At certain times of year | — |
| Video | Extra on some offers | Price |
Safety
- Wear a helmet and life jacket.
- Learn how to fall: arms forward and body relaxed.
- Always follow the instructor’s guidance.
Weather and sea
- In wind or choppy seas, the session may be postponed.
- Mornings are usually calmer.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Duration.
- Video and extras.
What to bring
- Close-fitting swimwear.
- A towel and a change of clothes.
- Water-resistant sun protection.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Several activities in one morning | Water sports pack |
| Driving at speed | Jet ski in Tenerife |
| Flying effortlessly over the sea | Parasailing in Tenerife |
| Flying through the air | Tandem paragliding |
Frequently asked questions
Is flyboarding difficult?
The first few minutes are hard, but most people manage to rise by the end of the first session.
Who controls the power?
The instructor, from the jet ski.
How long does it last?
Usually between 10 and 20 minutes in the water.
Do you need to be able to swim?
Yes, it is highly recommended.
Can children do it?
It depends on the company’s minimum age and weight.