Key West 90-Minute Jet Ski Tour

| | | | |

If you’re looking for an exciting way to see Key West’s natural beauty, the Key West 90-Minute Jet Ski Tour offers an exhilarating ride through the island’s backcountry. This guided adventure takes you on a 28-mile journey across open waters and hidden spots, giving you a fresh perspective on this famous Florida destination. With a combination of wildlife sightings, scenic photo ops, and the thrill of riding a top-of-the-line Sea-Doo jet ski, it’s a memorable experience that’s perfect for adventure lovers.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are two things: the chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles—two of the area’s most iconic creatures—and the opportunity to relax at a sandbar, which offers a peaceful break in the middle of your high-energy ride. The only caveat? It’s weather-dependent, so if the ocean’s choppy or the wind’s strong, your sandbar stop might be canceled or shortened. Still, for those craving a taste of the water-based adventure, this tour hits the spot. It suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, wildlife, and a bit of adrenaline, especially if you’re after a small-group, guided experience with plenty of photo opportunities.

Key Points

  • Wildlife Watching: Spot dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical birds in their natural habitat.
  • Scenic Highlights: Pass landmarks like Mallory Square, Southernmost Point, and Fort Zachary Taylor from the water.
  • Sandbar Stop: Weather permitting, enjoy a relaxing dip at a tranquil sandbar—perfect for photos and cooling off.
  • State-of-the-Art Equipment: Ride modern Sea-Doo jet skis designed for comfort, speed, and handling.
  • Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the area while keeping safety a priority.
  • Flexible Timing & Small Groups: Usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, with limited groups for a more personalized experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

While we haven’t personally taken this jet ski tour, the detailed descriptions and reviews paint a vivid picture of what travelers can look forward to. The tour runs for about 90 minutes, covering roughly 28 miles of Key West’s stunning waters. Starting from the meeting point on Duval Street, you’ll check in at a Fury Water Adventures booth—located conveniently on the north end of Duval Street—and prepare for your adventure with all necessary safety gear.

Once underway, your guide will lead you through the calm waters of the backcountry, taking you past some of the island’s most recognizable landmarks. These include the bustling Mallory Square, famous for sunset celebrations, and the iconic Southernmost Point buoy, which marks the southern tip of the continental United States. The tour’s route is designed not just for sightseeing but also for wildlife encounters. Several reviewers have mentioned seeing dolphins and sea turtles during their ride, which makes the whole experience feel more connected to nature.

A highlight for many is the weather-dependent stop at a sandbar. When conditions are right, you’ll be able to hop off your jet ski and float in the shallow sands, taking in the vista and cooling off in the clear water. Photos from this spot are said to be excellent—capturing both the natural beauty and the fun of the day. One reviewer noted, “In total, we had four jet skis and followed the guide, with a short swim break. Our teenage sons loved the whole thing.”

The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. They’ll help you navigate the waters safely, answer questions about the local ecosystem, and give you tips on the best photo angles. Whether you want to throttle up and make some splashes or prefer a more relaxed ride, the guides are flexible, making sure everyone gets the most out of their experience.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour costs $150 per group, which is quite reasonable considering it covers 1.5 hours of guided fun on a state-of-the-art Sea-Doo jet ski. Since the price is per group (up to two adults and a small child, not exceeding 460 lbs), it’s a good deal for families or small groups wanting to share the experience.

Included in your booking are all safety equipment and the guidance of an expert guide. You’ll need to bring a passport or ID, a credit card, and a boating license if you plan to operate the jet ski yourself (if you’re born in or after 1988 and have a valid ID, you might be able to do so after passing a safety test for a small fee). Guests under 18 must have a parent present, and everyone should speak fluent English to ensure safety and clear communication.

What’s not included are food, drinks, and photos—so if you want souvenirs or a snack afterward, plan accordingly. Remember, no alcohol or intoxication is allowed, and the entire experience is designed to prioritize safety.

Check-in is 60 minutes before departure at the Fury Water Adventures booth, located conveniently at the north end of Duval Street. Tours are available morning, afternoon, or evening, giving you flexibility to fit this adventure into your itinerary.

Authentic Reviews and Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience both fun and educational. One traveler from France called it “Top!” while another from the Netherlands shared, “It was super! We rented two jet skis for four people, went behind the guide, and enjoyed a total of 1.5 hours on the water with a quick swim stop. Our sons aged 14 and 19 found it absolutely fantastic!”

Many notes highlight the stunning views and wildlife as the main attractions. The chance to see dolphins “in the wild” was a highlight for one reviewer, who appreciated how the guides would often talk about the local marine life and history of the area. The short stop at the sandbar provides a peaceful contrast to the high-speed ride and is highly valued by those wanting a mix of thrill and relaxation.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

This jet ski tour offers a blend of adventure, sightseeing, and wildlife encounters that is hard to beat in a short, 90-minute window. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a hands-on, active experience rather than just viewing from a boat or bus. The small group size adds a personalized touch, and the modern equipment ensures a smooth, comfortable ride.

For those who appreciate authentic natural scenery and want to capture memorable photos, this tour provides plenty of opportunities. The guides’ local knowledge enhances the experience, making it not just a fun ride but also an educational one.

On the flip side, it’s important to note that weather conditions can affect the sandbar stop, and some travelers might find the speed and water splashes a bit intense if they’re not used to jet skis. It also requires participants to speak fluent English for safety reasons, which could be a consideration for non-English speakers.

More Great Tours Nearby

Summary: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a thrill-seeker eager to explore Key West’s waters with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for a mix of fun and natural beauty in a short time frame. Wildlife lovers will appreciate the chance to see dolphins and turtles, while those wanting some memorable photos will find plenty of picture opportunities.

This experience offers great value for the price, considering the guided nature, the modern jet skis, and the scenic stops. It’s perfect for travelers who want to feel the wind in their hair and see Key West from a fresh perspective, all while keeping safety and comfort top of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a boating license to participate?

  • If you plan to operate the jet ski and are born in or after 1988, you might need to pass a safety test for a small fee. Otherwise, passengers can ride without a license.

Are children allowed on this tour?

  • Children under 4 years old are not permitted. For those between 4 and 17, a parent must be present to sign waivers, and the child’s safety and comfort should be considered.

Can I book solo or only with a group?

  • The price is per group, so if you’re alone or with one other person, you’ll pay $150. You can also join with friends or family for the same price.

What if the weather is bad?

  • Tours are weather-dependent. If conditions aren’t suitable, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, but you can usually cancel with a full refund if done at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?

  • Yes, since the sandbar stop is optional and only if weather permits. Always inform your guide if you’re not comfortable swimming.

How fast do jet skis go?

  • The Sea-Doo jet skis are described as state-of-the-art, offering superior speed and handling, making for a lively and fun ride.

What should I bring?

  • Remember your ID, credit card, and boating license if applicable. Waterproof cameras are also recommended for photos.

Can I take photos during the tour?

  • Photos are not included, but you’re encouraged to bring waterproof cameras or phones to capture the scenery and wildlife.

This Key West 90-Minute Jet Ski Tour combines the thrill of high-speed watercraft with the tranquility of scenic stops and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-timer, it’s a lively, memorable way to see one of Florida’s most iconic islands from a different angle. Just pack your sense of adventure, and don’t forget your waterproof camera.

You can check availability for your dates here: