Jet Ski Safari to the South of Malta from St Julian’s

You’ll check in at the St. Julian’s base around 15–20 minutes before the 10:00 start time to complete paperwork, pay the cash deposit and get kitted out with a life jacket. Your instructor will then give a full safety and operational briefing, explain the hand signals used at sea, and outline the route towards Valletta Grand Harbour, St Thomas Bay and Delimara.

Once on the water, you’ll ride in convoy behind the instructor’s jet ski, with a safety boat shadowing the group. The pace is fast enough to feel exciting but still controlled so that the group stays together. You’ll reach the southern coastline, cruise past key landmarks, then turn back towards St. Julian’s, returning to the base at around 11:30, where you’ll hand back the ski and collect your deposit (assuming no damage).

You don’t need any previous jet ski experience or a specific boating licence. The instructor will cover throttle control, balance, turning radius, safe stopping distances and what to do if you fall off. The briefing is designed so a confident first-timer can handle the ski safely in typical summer conditions.

You should, however, be comfortable in open water and confident with higher speeds, as this is a “Challenging” activity rather than a gentle cruise. If you’ve never done high-adrenaline water sports before or are nervous about speed and chop, consider a shorter jet ski rental in the bay first to get used to the handling.

The safari is strictly for adults only: drivers must be at least 18 years old. You must bring a valid, legally binding ID document (ID card or passport). If you arrive without physical ID, you will not be allowed to participate and no refund is given, so it’s worth double-checking this before you leave your accommodation.

From a fitness point of view, you need to be able to brace through chop, stand slightly through waves if instructed and hold onto the handlebars for the full 90 minutes. People with heart conditions, back problems or who are pregnant are not allowed to participate, and it’s not recommended for anyone over 65 unless they are in very good health and used to higher-impact activities.

Before the safari starts, you’ll pay a €100 cash security deposit per jet ski at the base; cards are not accepted for this. This is held against any damage you might cause to the craft or onboard equipment. As long as the ski is returned in good condition, the deposit is refunded at the end of the session.

All jet skis are covered by fully comprehensive insurance, so in the event of an incident, you’re only liable up to the insurance excess and/or your deposit, depending on the operator’s terms. Normal wear and tear or minor cosmetic marks from regular use are generally not an issue; deliberate misuse, collisions or ignoring safety instructions can result in charges, so it’s worth riding within your limits and following the guide closely.

Expect to get wet. Swimwear or quick-dry sports clothing under a lightweight layer works best, paired with secure footwear such as snug-fitting water shoes or trainers. Flip-flops or loose sandals are not recommended, as they can easily come off and be lost in the water.

Bring a towel and a dry change of clothes to leave at the base for after the safari. Even in warm weather, riding at speed can feel cooler due to windchill, so a light rash vest or technical top is useful, especially outside peak summer. Don’t forget sunscreen on shoulders, neck and backs of hands – you’ll be exposed to sun and spray throughout.

Every safari departs with a qualified and experienced instructor leading the group plus a safety boat on the route. Before departure, you’ll receive a safety briefing explaining how to operate the ski, how to re-mount in the water, key hand signals, safe distances and what to do in any emergency. Life jackets are mandatory and provided for all participants.

On the water, you must follow the instructor’s track, maintain the spacing they specify and keep within the agreed speed range. Racing other skis, cutting across wakes or experimenting with sharp turns close to the group is not allowed. These rules keep the formation tight and predictable, which is especially important when passing close to cliffs, in areas with more boat traffic, or when the sea state picks up.

No – on this specific safari, each person rides their own jet ski, and passengers are not allowed. This is partly because of the route and pace, and partly to keep the handling consistent across the group so everyone can respond quickly to the instructor’s signals.

There is also a minimum booking rule: at least two paying participants (two jet skis) per departure. If you’re travelling solo, you can still join, but you’ll need to pay the equivalent of two places unless the operator has already confirmed another booking on that date and time. This keeps the experience safe and viable from a guiding perspective.

The operator constantly monitors wind and swell, especially for a southern-coast route where exposure can be higher. If conditions are deemed unsafe or unsuitable, the safari will be cancelled or rescheduled; you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund if you can’t move your booking. Safety takes priority over sticking to the exact advertised route.

On days with moderate chop where it is still safe to go, the instructor may adjust the speed, route or turning points to stay within sheltered sections of coast. You should be ready for some impact through waves and a more physical ride on these days. If you know you are sensitive to motion sickness, consider taking appropriate precautions in advance.

Jet skis cannot be driven under the influence of alcohol or drugs, including medications that impair reaction times or balance. If the staff suspect you are under the influence, they are obliged to refuse participation without refund; this is standard practice for powered watersports. If you take regular prescription medication, it’s worth checking with your doctor beforehand if high-speed water activities are suitable.

There is also a weight limit of 130 kg per person for this safari. This is linked to buoyancy, performance and safe handling of the craft in choppy conditions. If you are close to this threshold, it’s best to check your weight honestly before booking to avoid disappointment on the day.

As a rule, you should assume that anything you bring on the ski might get wet, dropped or lost overboard. For safety, both hands need to be available for steering and throttle, especially when following a guide in open water, so handheld phones and cameras are not recommended while riding.

If you want footage, the best option is usually a small action camera mounted on your body or helmet with a secure tether, but you should confirm with the team on the day what’s allowed. Many people simply enjoy the ride and take photos back at the base or from the dock before and after the safari, when you’re off the ski and can handle devices safely.