Nothing says summer vacation quite like carving through the water on a jet ski. Ocean City NJ’s back bays offer perfect conditions for personal watercraft—calm waters, scenic views, and enough space to open the throttle. Whether you are a first-time rider or an experienced jet ski enthusiast, this guide covers everything you need to know about jet ski rentals in the OCNJ area.
Where to Rent Jet Skis
Bay Side Watersports
Located on the bay side of Ocean City, this operator specializes in personal watercraft. They offer both guided tours and freestyle rentals for experienced riders.
Somers Point Jet Ski Rentals
Just across the bay in Somers Point, several operators rent jet skis. The short drive (5-10 minutes over the 9th Street bridge) often means better availability and sometimes lower prices than OCNJ locations.
Adventure Water Sports
Full-service water sports operator with jet skis, boat rentals, and parasailing. Good for families wanting multiple activities in one location.
What to Expect
Types of Watercraft
Most rental locations offer:
- Single-rider jet skis: Sporty and maneuverable
- Two-seater jet skis: Perfect for couples or parent with child
- Three-seater watercraft: Family-friendly option
WaveRunners (Yamaha) and Sea-Doos (BRP) are the most common brands.
Rental Periods
- 30-minute rental: Quick taste, good for first-timers ($75-100)
- 1-hour rental: Most popular option ($120-180)
- 2-hour rental: Extended exploration ($200-300)
- Half-day rental: Serious riders only ($350-500)
Prices vary by operator, season, and demand. Peak summer weekends are most expensive.
Requirements
Age Requirements
- Operators: Must be 18+ (some require 21+)
- Passengers: Usually 5+ years old, must wear life jacket
- Some operators allow 16-17 year olds to operate with parental supervision and signature
Boating Safety Certificate
New Jersey requires operators born after January 1, 1979 to have a boating safety certificate. If you don’t have one, you can take an approved course online—it takes a few hours and costs around $30. Complete it before your trip to avoid disappointment.
What to Bring
- Valid driver’s license
- Credit card for security deposit (typically $200-500)
- Boating safety certificate if required
- Swimsuit and clothes you don’t mind getting wet
- Sunscreen (waterproof, applied before you go)
- Sunglasses with a strap
- Waterproof phone case or leave phone in car
Riding Areas
Where You Can Ride
Jet ski rentals operate on the back bays behind Ocean City, not the ocean. This is actually ideal—bay waters are calmer, safer, and you won’t have to navigate ocean waves and currents. The bays offer plenty of space to cruise, explore, and even find quiet coves.
Great Egg Harbor Bay
The main riding area. Miles of open water with room to maneuver. The bay is wide and deep enough for full-throttle runs while remaining relatively protected.
Corson’s Inlet
Beautiful natural area at the south end. Scenic cruising past marshes and sandbars. Slower speeds here—wildlife and swimmers may be present.
Restricted Areas
Operators will brief you on where you cannot go:
- Swimming areas (marked with buoys)
- No-wake zones near docks and marinas
- Wildlife protection areas
- The ocean (most rentals restrict you to the bay)
Safety Briefing
Every rental includes a safety orientation covering:
- How to start, stop, and steer
- Throttle control
- What to do if you fall off (it happens—the watercraft will circle back)
- Right of way rules
- How to reboard from the water
- Emergency procedures
- Designated riding area
Pay attention—this briefing keeps you safe and out of trouble.
Tips for First-Timers
- Start slow: Get a feel for steering before opening the throttle
- Lean into turns: Like a motorcycle, your body position matters
- Keep a safe distance: From other watercraft, docks, and swimmers
- Watch for wakes: Boat wakes can be bumpy—slow down or turn into them
- Know your limits: It is not a race—enjoy the scenery
- Stay hydrated: Sun and wind dehydrate you quickly
Jet Skiing with Kids
Many families enjoy jet skiing together. Tips for riding with children:
- Use three-seater craft: More stable and room for everyone
- Adult operates: Kids are passengers only
- Child-sized life jackets: Must fit properly
- Keep speeds moderate: Thrills are great but safety first
- Take breaks: Wind, sun, and excitement tire kids out
- Age minimums: Ask operator about their policies
Guided Tours vs. Freestyle
Guided Tours
A guide leads you through the bay, pointing out sights and keeping the group together. Best for first-timers or those unfamiliar with the area. Tours often last 1-2 hours and include multiple stops.
Freestyle Rentals
You get a briefing and boundaries, then explore on your own. Requires some experience and comfort operating watercraft. More freedom but more responsibility.
Some operators require a supervised tour for first-timers before allowing freestyle rentals.
What If You Fall Off?
It happens, and it is no big deal. Modern jet skis have a lanyard attached to a kill switch on your wrist. When you fall off, the engine cuts and the craft circles back to you (or stops). Swim back, climb on from the rear, and continue riding.
Life jackets are mandatory and provided—you will float while you figure things out.
Weather Considerations
- Wind: High winds create choppy conditions. Operators may restrict riding or cancel rentals.
- Rain: Light rain is fine (you’re wet anyway). Lightning cancels everything.
- Afternoon storms: Summer thunderstorms roll in quickly. Watch the sky and head in if clouds build.
Operators will advise on conditions and may adjust rentals accordingly.
Booking Tips
- Reserve ahead: Peak summer weekends book up—call or book online days in advance
- Morning slots: Often calmer water and less crowded
- Check weather: Don’t waste money if conditions look bad
- Ask about packages: Some operators offer jet ski + parasailing combos
- Arrive early: Paperwork and briefing take time
Combine with Other Activities
Jet skiing pairs well with other water activities:
- Morning jet ski + afternoon beach: Start active, then relax
- Jet ski + boat rental: Different experiences, same beautiful bay
- Jet ski + parasailing: Double water thrills
- Evening sunset cruise: Calm down after the excitement
Pure Summer Fun
There is a reason jet skiing is one of the most popular summer activities. The combination of speed, water, sun, and freedom creates an adrenaline rush that defines vacation. Whether you are carving tight turns, cruising along the marshes, or just floating and taking in the scenery, time on a jet ski is time you’ll remember.
Rent a jet ski, strap on the life jacket, and hit the throttle. The bay is yours.