Miami JetCar: 1 Water JetCar Rental | 1h

Imagine cruising across Miami’s sparkling waters in a vehicle that’s part car, part boat. That’s the lure of this water jetcar rental experience, which promises an adrenaline rush reaching speeds up to 65 mph and panoramic views of Miami Beach and beyond. It’s a fresh twist on sightseeing—an activity that combines fun, speed, and the thrill of driving an amphibious vehicle.

While the concept sounds exciting, the reality has been mixed according to the few reviews available. We love that this tour offers a different perspective of Miami, with the chance to take control of your own watercraft and enjoy the scenery from a unique vantage point. It’s a standout activity for adventure seekers and those eager for a memorable, high-speed water outing. However, some travelers have expressed concerns about value for money and the transparency of the booking process.

This experience is best suited for adventurous adults who enjoy adrenaline and water-based activities, and are comfortable with a bit of uncertainty regarding the actual service delivery. If you’re looking for a safe, straightforward boat tour or a luxurious cruise, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re curious about driving your own amphibious vehicle and don’t mind some potential drawbacks, it could be a memorable addition to your Miami itinerary.

Key Points

• Unique experience: Drive an amphibious jetcar, blending car and boat fun in Miami Beach.
• Speed and views: Reach up to 65 mph while admiring Miami’s skyline and waterfront views.
• Includes transfer: A quick 10-minute boat transfer to a floating island sets the scene.
• Safety focus: Instruction is provided by CPR-certified staff, with simple controls.
• Limited group size: Only up to 2 participants per jetcar, making it intimate but also limited.
• Questionable value: Reviews reveal concerns about hidden costs and questionable authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Meeting Point

Starting at the Hard Rock Cafe in Bayside Marketplace, you’ll meet at the large yellow chair, an iconic Miami landmark. You reserve your spot online with the option to reserve now and pay later, which offers some flexibility if your plans change. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with the actual jetcar ride typically scheduled in the afternoon.

The Transfer and Instructions

After check-in, you’ll hop aboard a shuttle boat for a quick 10-minute cruise to a floating island—an unusual but scenic starting point. The transfer offers a relaxed way to start your adventure, providing a different perspective of Miami’s waterfront.

Upon arrival, an instructor will brief you on safety protocols and operation of the jetcar. Controls are straightforward—think forward, reverse, and neutral—making it accessible even for first-timers. The staff’s dedication to safety, including CPR-certified employees, is reassuring, though some reviews imply that the overall professionalism can be inconsistent.

The JetCar Ride

Once ready, you’ll take the wheel of your 2-person amphibious vehicle. The speed of up to 65 mph promises an exciting ride, with the wind in your hair and Miami’s skyline as a backdrop. You can also play music through Bluetooth speakers—a nice touch—and sip soft drinks included in the package.

During the ride, you’re free to explore the designated riding area at your leisure, which is a good opportunity for photos. Expect to see Miami Beach’s towering buildings, shimmering water, and perhaps some luxury yachts. The open-air nature of the jetcar means you’re directly in the environment but also exposed to the elements—so prepare for sun, wind, and spray.

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What’s Included and What to Expect

The package includes:

• The water jetcar rental for two people
• Parking at the marina
• The shuttle boat cruise to the floating island
• Bluetooth speakers to enjoy your music
• Instruction from certified staff

The entire experience is designed for a small group—just two participants per jetcar—so it’s quite intimate, but this also means limited availability and the need for booking well in advance.

Worth Considering: The Downside

While the concept is undoubtedly fun, reviews highlight some red flags. One reviewer from the US called it a scam, citing an address that doesn’t exist and alleging that the company tries to steal money. Another from Brazil described it as a scam that misleads customers about the actual costs, with extra charges of $300 in cash and inconsistent timing.

These negative reviews suggest that trusting the experience depends heavily on luck and perhaps the specific staff member you encounter. The main complaint revolves around hidden costs and misleading advertising, which can turn a fun adventure into a frustrating experience if not handled properly.

Price and Value

At $390 for a group of up to two people, this activity sits at a premium price point. The value hinges on your desire for thrilling speed and the novelty of driving an amphibious vehicle. For some, the adrenaline rush and scenic views justify the cost. Yet, considering the reviews about possible extra charges and a lack of clear communication, it’s wise to approach this booking with caution.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is best suited for adventurous water lovers who want a hands-on experience rather than a passive sightseeing cruise. It appeals to those seeking high-speed thrills and a unique way to see Miami’s waterfront. Young adults and adrenaline junkies will likely find it memorable, especially if they’re comfortable with the risks and uncertainties reported.

It’s not ideal for families with young children (minimum age 6 for passengers), pregnant women, or anyone with back problems or mobility issues. Also, those without a boating license or who don’t want to pass a safety test should think twice.

Final Thoughts

This Miami jetcar experience offers a rare combination of speed, scenery, and personal control over your water adventure. The concept is undeniably appealing: zooming across Miami waters in an amphibious vehicle, with a flexible start time and included transportation. For thrill-seekers, that’s a big plus.

However, the mixed reviews highlight a need for caution. The main concern is the trustworthiness of the provider and whether you’ll get the experience you expect for that price. While some travelers might consider it a good value for the adrenaline and novelty, others have expressed disappointment about hidden costs or misinformation.

If you’re prepared for the possibility of a bumpy ride in terms of service quality and are excited by the idea of driving a jetcar, it could add a memorable chapter to your Miami trip. But if you prefer a more reliable, transparent, or luxurious water experience, you might want to explore other options like sightseeing cruises or paddleboard rentals.

FAQs

Is there a minimum age to participate?
Yes, the minimum age to drive the jetcar is 18. Passengers must be at least 6 years old and be accompanied by an adult.

Do I need a boating license?
Yes, customers born after January 1, 1988, need to bring a valid ID and be prepared to pass a short, temporary boating safety test, which costs $10.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, and if you plan to operate the jetcar, a boating license is required.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the water jetcar rental for two, parking, a shuttle boat cruise, Bluetooth speakers, and safety instruction.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the actual ride?
The total activity lasts about 1.5 hours, with the jetcar ride itself typically taking around the reserved time.

What if I want to take photos?
You’re encouraged to take pictures during the ride, especially since you can play your own music and enjoy Miami’s skyline.

Is this activity suitable for large groups?
No, it’s limited to small groups of 2 participants per jetcar, so it’s perfect for couples or pairs but not larger groups.

The Sum Up

The Miami JetCar rental offers a one-of-a-kind experience for those craving speed, adventure, and a different view of Miami. If you’re an adventure enthusiast willing to navigate some uncertainties and possible extra costs, this could be a memorable addition to your trip. The thrill of driving an amphibious vehicle combined with Miami’s vibrant waters means you’ll likely never forget it.

However, it’s crucial to approach this activity with a healthy dose of caution, especially given the mixed reviews about transparency and trustworthiness. Be sure to verify all details before booking, and consider whether the adrenaline rush outweighs the potential frustrations. For those who prioritize reliable, well-reviewed experiences, other scenic boat tours or water activities might be safer bets.

In the end, this activity best suits adventurers who value novelty over perfection and are ready to embrace the unpredictable side of Miami’s waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: