Tybee Island: Single or Tandem Jet Ski Rental

Imagine the wind in your hair, the splash of water beneath you, and the vast Atlantic horizon ahead—this is what a jet ski ride on Tybee Island promises. While we haven’t personally zipped across these waters, reviews and descriptions offer a vivid picture of what to expect. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or just looking to add some excitement to your beach vacation, this jet ski tour offers a swift and scenic way to explore Tybee’s coastal beauty.

What really stands out is the opportunity to pilot the state-of-the-art GTX 130 by Sea-Doo, a powerful machine designed to thrill without overwhelming beginners. But, a quick heads-up—parking can be tricky, and some reviewers have found the experience less than ideal. Still, if you’re seeking a fun, active way to see the island’s coast and enjoy some water-based fun, this tour might be just right.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of adventure and scenery, particularly those comfortable with the basic requirements of driving a jet ski (drivers 18+, valid license). It’s also well-suited for those eager to try jet skiing without a large group or complicated arrangements. Now, let’s explore what makes this tour tick, what you can expect, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Powerful Jet Ski: The GTX 130 by Sea-Doo offers a thrilling ride with scenic views.
• Ideal Duration: 75 minutes of riding time gives enough space to explore without fatigue.
• Location Perks: Starting at Tybee Island Marina, close to landmarks like Cockspur Lighthouse.
• Safety Focused: Equipment and crew prioritize safety, with safety gear provided.
• Experience Level Flexibility: Suitable for both first-timers and seasoned water sports enthusiasts.
• Some Limitations: Restricted areas for riding and parking challenges noted by reviewers.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $158 per person, this 75-minute jet ski rental includes safety equipment and an experienced crew. Waterproof phone holders are available for purchase, but travelers are advised to leave valuables ashore to prevent loss or damage. It’s worth considering adding damage insurance during booking, especially if you want peace of mind.

Not included are parking fees, which can be a bit of a headache given the limited parking at the marina. It’s recommended to arrive at least 45 minutes early to handle check-in, safety briefings, and waivers comfortably. The activity ends back at the starting point, making it a straightforward, point-to-point adventure.

The Meeting Point and Location Details

Begin your adventure at the Tybee Island Marina, conveniently located next to Bubba Gumbos. The marina’s prime spot offers easy access for boaters and adventure seekers alike, but parking isn’t plentiful—so planning ahead is a smart move. Since space is limited, arriving early allows ample time to settle in and absorb the safety instructions.

The Tour Itself: What You Can Expect

Once checked in, you’ll receive a safety briefing, making sure you’re comfortable before hitting the water. The GTX 130 jet skis are designed to cater to both novices and experienced riders, with the capacity for up to two riders per vessel, a combined weight limit of 425 lbs, and a maximum speed of around 35 mph.

The route takes you past the Cockspur Lighthouse, offering some picture-perfect moments. Despite some reviews mentioning restrictions on where you can go—mainly limited to a small, murky river area rather than the open ocean—the scenery is still quite enjoyable. You’ll love the way the coastline and lighthouse come into view, with plenty of opportunities to feel the surge of adrenaline.

The Experience from the Perspective of Reviewers

One happy guest, Theresa, described her experience as “friendly and helpful,” highlighting the crew’s professionalism and safety focus. She added that she and her husband “had a blast,” which suggests the tour can be genuinely fun when run smoothly.

However, not all reviews mirror this enthusiasm. Katelin’s experience was less stellar—she rated it 1 out of 5—noting issues with parking, strict staff behavior, and limitations on where they could ride. She also mentioned that her boyfriend’s ID was initially rejected due to expiry, which caused frustration, and that the jet skis only reached 35 mph, not the high speeds some might expect from a jet ski adventure.

One recurring theme was the limited riding area. Some reviewers felt the restrictions on where they could go—mainly confined to a small, murky river—dampened the thrill, especially if your goal was to enjoy open water or see wildlife like dolphins. The staff’s approach to safety and boundaries seemed to vary, with some finding the rules overly strict or unprofessional.

The Value of the Tour

Considering the price, $158 for 75 minutes, the experience is quite aligned with similar water sports in popular destinations. The fact that the jet skis are modern and the route offers scenic views makes this a decent value for thrill-seekers and sightseeing enthusiasts. However, those expecting ocean rides or high speeds might feel limited, especially if the restrictions are enforced strictly.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This jet ski rental is best suited for adventurers wanting a quick, scenic ride rather than a full-blown ocean thrill. It’s ideal for first-timers who want to try jet skiing in a controlled environment, and for families (with kids over 8) looking for a fun outdoor activity. If your main goal is dolphin watching or exploring untouched beaches, you might find the area restrictions disappointing.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Arrive early: At least 45 minutes before your scheduled time to handle check-in and safety briefing.
• Bring your ID: Drivers must be 18+ with a valid license; passengers must be 8 or older.
• Leave valuables ashore: Waterproof phone holders are available for purchase, but it’s safer to leave phones and wallets behind.
• Consider insurance: Damage insurance can be added online for peace of mind.
• Prepare for restricted riding areas: Don’t expect to venture far from the marina, especially into open ocean waters.
• Parking is limited: Plan to park down the street if necessary and walk to the marina.

For thrill-seekers and scenic lovers alike, this jet ski tour offers a quick, fun way to explore Tybee Island’s waters. You’ll love the modern GTX 130 jet skis, the scenic views of Cockspur Lighthouse, and the feeling of skimming across the water. It’s a straightforward experience that balances adventure with safety, making it suitable for a wide range of ages and skill levels.

However, the experience isn’t without its limitations. Some travelers have found the restricted riding areas and parking challenges frustrating, and the speed is modest compared to high-adrenaline expectations. Yet, if you’re after a memorable water adventure with scenic photos and a splash of adrenaline, this tour fits the bill nicely.

This activity offers good value for your money, especially if you’re eager to explore the coast in a fun, active way. It’s best suited for those who prioritize scenic views, safety, and a manageable riding experience over long ocean voyages or high-speed thrills. If that sounds like you, it’s likely to be a highlight of your Tybee Island trip.

Is parking available at Tybee Island Marina?
Parking is limited at the marina. It’s best to arrive early and be prepared to walk a short distance from your parking spot.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Passengers must be at least 8 years old, while drivers need to be 18+ with a valid driver’s license.

How fast do the jet skis go?
The jet skis can reach speeds of about 35 mph, which provides a good balance of thrill and safety.

Can I go farther than the designated route?
Most reviews indicate riders are restricted to a small, murky river area, with staff enforcing boundaries—so don’t expect open ocean exploration.

How long is the ride?
The rental lasts for 75 minutes, giving enough time to explore and enjoy the scenery.

Is safety equipment provided?
Yes, safety gear such as life jackets and waterproof phone holders are included; additional gear like insurance can be purchased online.

What should I do if my ID is expired?
Staff may initially refuse to accept an expired ID, but providing a passport photo can sometimes help resolve the issue.

Is the experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the jets are designed to accommodate both new and experienced riders, with safety briefings provided.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Arrive early, bring your ID, and plan for limited parking. Be ready to follow safety instructions carefully.

Would I recommend this tour?
It depends on your expectations. For scenic, moderate-speed fun and a taste of water adventure, it’s a good choice. For high-speed thrill rides or ocean exploration, you might want to look elsewhere.

In all, if you’re after a scenic, enjoyable jet ski ride with manageable restrictions and safety in mind, this Tybee Island experience offers a solid, if somewhat controlled, adventure.