Before you choose
What you need to know about this experience
Jet skiing in Tenerife is mainly offered in two formats: a short circuit in a buoyed area and a guided safari along the south coast behind an instructor. In both cases you do not need a boating licence, because you ride under the supervision of an authorised company. To hire a jet ski and ride independently, you do need a qualification.
This page explains the differences between formats, the ages accepted and what to ask before booking.
At a glance
| Aspect | What to expect |
|---|---|
| What it is | Riding a jet ski with an instructor |
| Formats | Circuit (about 20 minutes) or guided safari (40 minutes to 2 hours) |
| Licence | Not needed with an instructor in an authorised area; needed for independent hire |
| Driver age | Usually 18; from 16 with parental consent at some companies |
| Passenger | From about 6–12 years, depending on the format and the company |
| Areas | South coast: Costa Adeje, Puerto Colón, Los Cristianos, Las Galletas |
| Price | Depends on the format, the duration and whether there are one or two of you per jet ski |
Formats
| Format | What it includes | Suits you if… |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit | About 20 minutes in a buoyed area | You want to try it without going far |
| Short safari | About 40–60 minutes on a coastal route, in single file behind the instructor | First time on a route |
| Long safari | Up to about 2 hours, sometimes with a snorkelling stop | You feel confident handling it |
| Independent hire | Jet ski without an instructor | You hold a boating licence |
Licence: when you need one
- With an instructor in an authorised area: no licence is needed. The legal framework allows recreational use without a qualification under specific conditions, in areas authorised by the Harbour Master’s Office (CapitanÃa MarÃtima) and with power-limited jet skis.
- To ride on your own: you need a boating licence (licencia de navegación) or another valid nautical qualification, plus a deposit at most companies.
Usual ages
In the offers reviewed:
- Driver: 18; some companies accept drivers from 16 with signed parental consent, sometimes only on a single-seat jet ski.
- Passenger: from about 6 on a circuit, 10 on a one-hour safari and 12 on longer safaris, according to one of the companies reviewed.
What happens
- Meeting at the base or at a beach kiosk.
- Safety briefing and compulsory life jacket.
- Transfer by boat to the starting area, on some offers.
- Circuit or safari behind the instructor.
- Return.
Who it suits
- Anyone looking for speed and adrenaline at sea.
- Couples or friends sharing a jet ski.
- Beginners, on a circuit or short safari.
Who it may not suit, and what to weigh up
- Back problems or pregnancy: the impacts against the waves can be hard.
- Under-16s as drivers.
- Anyone looking for peaceful nature: the noise and speed do not fit with wildlife watching.
How to choose well
- Circuit or safari? Actual duration?
- Single or double jet ski?
- Minimum age for driver and passenger?
- How many jet skis per instructor?
- Is transfer from your hotel included?
- Deposit or excess in case of damage?
- What happens in rough seas?
What is usually included and what to check
| Item | Usual practice | Check |
|---|---|---|
| Jet ski and fuel | Included | Power and model |
| Life jacket | Compulsory and included | Sizes |
| Instructor | Included | — |
| Wetsuit | In winter, on some offers | If it is cold |
| Transfer | In some offers | Area |
| Insurance | Compulsory | Excess |
Safety
- Life jacket on at all times.
- Keep your distance from other jet skis, swimmers and boats.
- Follow the instructor’s line and do not accelerate in bathing areas.
- If there are marine animals nearby, slow down and move away.
Weather and sea
- In the south, the sea is usually calmer in the morning.
- With wind or swell, the safari may be shortened or replaced by a circuit.
Price: what it depends on
We do not give a reference figure.
- Format and duration.
- One or two people per jet ski.
- Transfer and extras.
What to bring
- Swimwear and towel.
- Water-resistant sun protection.
- Sunglasses with a strap.
- Identity document.
Alternatives and how to compare them
| If you are looking for… | Best option |
|---|---|
| Several activities in one morning | Water sports pack |
| Flying over the water | Flyboard in Tenerife |
| Speed without driving | Speedboat sea safari |
| Motorised fun on land | Quad safari |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a licence to ride a jet ski in Tenerife?
Not if you go with an instructor in an authorised area. Yes, to hire one and ride on your own.
How old do you have to be?
Usually 18; some companies accept drivers from 16 with parental consent.
Can a child ride as a passenger?
Yes, from about 6 on a circuit, and older on long safaris, depending on the company.
What is the difference between a circuit and a safari?
The circuit is short and in a buoyed area; the safari is a guided route along the coast.
Do I have to leave a deposit?
For independent hire, almost always. For circuits and safaris, it depends on the company.