Jet-skiing in Colombo combines adrenaline with excellent sightseeing opportunities. Four distinct tours stand out along Sri Lanka’s western coast, each offering unique perspectives of the capital city and its surroundings.
The Shipwreck Safari tops our list for its dramatic underwater views and wildlife encounters, while the Big City Life tour impresses with its urban coastline perspectives. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the South Bolgoda tour, where crocodiles and lush vegetation create an authentic Sri Lankan backwater experience. For those wanting maximum adventure, the 92-kilometer Southern Seaway Safari delivers with its mix of swimming stops and cultural landmarks.
These small-group excursions run year-round with flexible scheduling. Let’s explore our favorite jet-ski tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Shipwreck Jet Ski Safari offers a 2-hour adventure covering 50 km, highlighting a shipwreck, dolphin spotting, snorkeling, and swimming for $376.09 per person.
- The Big City Life Jet Ski Safari provides a 4-hour high-speed scenic tour of Colombo, including swimming and snorkeling at the Port City’s coral reef for $506.90 per person.
- The South Bolgoda Jet Ski Safari, a 1-hour experience, allows visitors to explore the region’s wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles and diverse flora/fauna, for $199.49 per person.
- The Southern Seaway Jet Ski Safari offers a 4-hour, 92 km journey along Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, featuring jet skiing, swimming, and local river activities for $564.13 per person.
- Most jet ski tours in Colombo accommodate a maximum of 6 participants for a personalized experience, with options for free cancellation and reserve now, pay later.
Shipwreck Jet Ski Safari
The Shipwreck Jet Ski Safari offers an exhilarating deep-sea adventure for thrill-seekers. Lasting 2 hours, this 50 km jet ski tour takes participants to the MV Thermopylae Sierra shipwreck, where they can spot dolphins and enjoy snorkeling and swimming in the ocean.
Along the way, riders will also catch sights of the Pandura Railway Bridge, Panadura river mouth, Fish Market, and Angulana Shipwreck.
Priced at $376.09 per person, the safari is limited to groups of 6, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is available in English and Singhalese.
Booking is easy, with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The meeting point is conveniently located and can be accessed via Google Maps.
Riders should bring a change of clothes and are expected to refrain from littering. Due to safety concerns, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women.
Read our full review: Shipwreck Jet Ski Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Big City Life Jet Ski Safari
For thrill-seekers looking for a more immersive Colombo experience, the Big City Life Jet Ski Safari offers a unique perspective of the bustling cityscape.
This 4-hour excursion provides a high-speed scenic tour of the city from the water, allowing participants to view the iconic landmarks and cityscape. The tour includes activities like swimming in the ocean and snorkeling in the newly formed coral reef at Port City.
At $506.90 per person, the safari is priced competitively and is limited to a group size of 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
The tour is available in both English and Singhalese, catering to a diverse audience. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and the “reserve now, pay later” option.
However, the activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Participants should bring a change of clothes and ensure they don’t litter during the tour.
Read our full review: Big City Life Jet Ski Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
South Bolgoda Jet Ski Safari
Thrill-seekers embark on a scenic journey through the South Bolgoda region aboard powerful jet skis. This 1-hour South Bolgoda Jet Ski Safari offers an exhilarating experience, limited to just 6 participants.
For $199.49 per person, adventurers can explore the area’s diverse flora and fauna, including the possibility of spotting saltwater crocodiles and other local wildlife.
The tour covers 35 km of shoreline, river, and bay area, with opportunities for bird watching and mangrove forest exploration. Key sights include the Bolgoda River, Hirana Bridge, Thunbodi Bridge, and the Indian Flying Fox Nesting Site.
An optional naturalist guide is available to provide more insights. Participants can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the “reserve now, pay later” option allows booking a spot without an upfront payment.
Proper attire and a change of clothes are recommended, as this adventure isn’t suitable for pregnant women, and littering is strictly prohibited.
Read our full review: South Bolgoda Jet Ski Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Southern Seaway Jet Ski Safari
Spanning an impressive 92 km, the Southern Seaway Jet Ski Safari offers adventurers a thrilling deep-sea experience, limited to just 6 participants.
Over the course of 4 hours, you will ride through Kalu Ganga, Sri Lanka’s longest waterway, and enjoy activities like jet skiing along the southern coastline, swimming in the ocean, and experiencing local river activities.
The tour explores sights such as Panadura Beach, Wadduwa Beach, Kalido Beach, Kalutara Estuary, Kalu River, and the Kalutara Temple & Pagoda.
Priced from $564.13 per person, the activity can be booked with a reservation, and travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Participants should bring a change of clothes, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women. Littering is also prohibited.
With English and Sinhalese as the available languages, this jet ski safari offers an exhilarating way to discover Sri Lanka’s southern waterways.
Read our full review: Southern Seaway Jet Ski Safari Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Safety Precautions Are in Place During the Jet Ski Tours?
Jet ski tour operators ensure riders’ safety by providing life jackets, safety briefings, and trained guides. They also enforce speed limits and designated riding areas to minimize risks during the tours.
Are There Any Age or Experience Requirements to Participate?
There are typically age and experience requirements for jet ski tours. Most operators require participants to be at least 16 years old and have some prior experience operating a jet ski. Specific requirements may vary by tour provider.
Can I Bring My Own Jet Ski or Must I Rent One?
Riders can’t bring their own jet skis and must rent them from local providers. The rental process is simple, and staff will provide guidance on safe operation. Renting a jet ski is the only way to experience these water activities.
What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Inclement Weather?
Most jet ski rental companies offer a flexible cancellation policy in case of inclement weather. Customers can typically cancel or reschedule their booking without penalty, ensuring they don’t lose their money due to factors beyond their control.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Accommodations Available?
Yes, most jet-ski tour operators offer dietary accommodations for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets. Guests should inform the operator of any dietary needs when booking to ensure their requirements are met.
The Sum Up
Colombo offers a range of thrilling jet-ski experiences. From exploring shipwrecks to navigating the serene Bolgoda Lake, there’s something for all. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a more leisurely outing, these jet-ski safaris provide an unforgettable way to discover the city’s waterways and coastal scenery. With knowledgeable guides and well-maintained equipment, you’re sure to have a safe and enjoyable time on the water.