Jetski Waverunner Rental – Destin

If you’re dreaming of zipping across crystal-clear waters and exploring Destin’s iconic waterways, a jet ski rental might just be the highlight of your trip. This particular experience, offered by Power Up Watersports, boasts an almost perfect rating and a proven track record of happy adventurers. It’s a one-hour ride that promises both fun and scenic views, making it a popular choice for water enthusiasts.

What we really like about this experience is the freedom it offers — you get to navigate your own route, with a map included to guide you around Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound. Plus, the jet skis are high-quality and able to reach up to 50 miles per hour, so you’re guaranteed a good dose of adrenaline. On the flip side, the requirement for a boaters safety course for those born after January 1, 1988, is something to consider — it adds an extra step before you can hop on, but it’s a necessary safety measure.

This rental suits anyone who enjoys a mix of independence and adventure, especially those comfortable with water activities. It’s also ideal if you want to experience one of Destin’s most scenic spots without a guided tour, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-guided adventure with your own jet ski and map
• Great for thrill-seekers who want speeds of up to 50 mph
• Includes fuel, safety gear, and instructions for an easy start
• Requires a boater’s safety course if born after Jan 1, 1988
• Limited to a group of 3 per jet ski, making it more personal
• Prohibited entry into the Gulf of Mexico, focusing on calmer waters

When you book this jet ski rental, you’re signing up for more than just a powerboat ride — you’re getting a chance to explore Destin’s stunning waterway at your own pace. Power Up Watersports makes everything straightforward, from the initial booking to returning the jet ski, ensuring your primary focus can be on fun.

The Meeting Point and Check-In Process

The adventure begins at Power Up Watersports, located at 1201 A Miracle Strip Pkwy SE in Fort Walton Beach. The location is accessible near public transportation, which is a nice perk if you’re staying nearby. Once you arrive, you’ll check in, show a valid ID, and provide a credit card for incidentals. The staff is known for their friendly, helpful attitude, as multiple reviews mention their professionalism and welcoming manner.

Safety First: Instructions and the Boater’s Test

Before heading out, you’ll receive a safety briefing, which many reviews mention as clear and thorough. For those born on or after January 1, 1988, there’s an added step: completing an online boater’s safety test that takes approximately 30-40 minutes. It’s best to do this beforehand to save time on the day of your rental — a few adventurers noted that arriving early to take the test was helpful.

For participants born before that date, a valid driver’s license is enough to operate the jet ski without extra testing. This is a good thing to keep in mind when planning your trip, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

Duration and Waterways

The rental lasts about an hour, which is enough time to get a good ride and explore without feeling rushed. You’ll get a map of local waterways, including Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound, so you can chart your course. Many reviews recommend heading towards Crab Island, a popular spot for visitors. It’s a scenic destination with vibrant water activities, and some reviews even mention spotting dolphins or stopping for snorkeling.

The Jet Ski Experience

All jet skis are high-quality models capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 mph. They seat up to two adults and a small child, making it a cozy, yet exhilarating experience for small groups. The jet skis are designed for easy handling, so even if you’re relatively new to watercraft, you’ll likely find them manageable. Reviewers praised the staff for their detailed instructions, which helped first-timers feel confident on the water.

The Scenic Views and Stops

Most riders love the freedom to cruise around at their own pace. The water around Destin is incredibly clear, allowing you to enjoy the marine life and the scenic coastline. The option to stop at Crab Island, while not officially part of the rental, is a common and popular destination. Some comments mention snorkeling or just soaking up the sun while floating in this lively area.

The Limitations and Restrictions

It’s important to note that jet skis are not allowed into the Gulf of Mexico, so your ride will be limited to calmer, protected waters. The rental has a strict return policy: all jet skis must be back by 6 pm, regardless of when you start. Failing to do so could result in additional charges.

For safety reasons, passengers must be 8 years or older, and the total weight limit is 450 pounds. The damage deposit can be either a $25 non-refundable fee covering up to $500 in damages or a $300 hold on a credit card.

What the Reviews Say

Looking at the glowing feedback, it’s clear this experience strikes a chord with most participants. Many mention the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, describing the process as smooth and hassle-free. One reviewer said, “We loved the way they explained everything and made us feel comfortable,” which sums up the customer service aspect nicely.

Multiple reviews talk about dolphin sightings, noting how close they got during their ride — an unexpected bonus for wildlife lovers. Others appreciated the value for money, with many saying the hour-long ride felt like more than enough to enjoy the water without it dragging on.

Some pointed out that getting to Crab Island takes about 30 minutes, so a longer rental might be worth considering if you want more time exploring. One comment from a reviewer mentioned wishing they had booked for two hours instead of one, as the trip felt a little rushed.

The Cons

While the majority of reviews are positive, a few mention that the initial process with the boater’s test can be a bit of a hassle for those who haven’t prepared. For some, the 6 pm return time felt restrictive, especially if they wanted to extend their day on the water. The restriction on entering the Gulf of Mexico might disappoint thrill-seekers hoping for open ocean adventures.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

At $95 for a group, this rental offers solid value, considering it includes fuel for the first tank, life vests, instructions, and a self-guided route — all key components for a safe, fun experience. The reviews repeatedly highlight how easy and enjoyable the process is, especially thanks to staff professionalism.

This experience is best suited for adventurers comfortable with watercraft who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or small families who seek a mix of thrill and scenic beauty. If you’re a first-timer or someone who prefers guided tours, this might not be the right fit, especially given the self-navigation aspect.

FAQs

Do I need a driver’s license to operate the jet ski?
Yes, if you were born before January 1, 1988, you can operate a jet ski with a valid driver’s license. If you were born on or after that date, you’ll need to complete an online boater’s safety test before your rental.

How long is the rental?
The rental duration is approximately 1 hour, perfect for a quick, adrenaline-packed ride and sightseeing.

Can I go into the Gulf of Mexico?
No, jet skis from this rental are prohibited from entering the Gulf of Mexico. The ride is confined to calmer waters like Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound.

What should I bring?
Bring your valid ID, a credit card for incidentals, and be prepared to wear the provided life vest. Arrive early if you need to complete the boater’s test.

Are the jet skis suitable for beginners?
Yes, many reviews praise the staff for their clear instructions, making it accessible even for first-timers. The jet skis are straightforward to handle, and safety instructions are thorough.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Experience for You?

If you’re eager for a quick, exciting way to see Destin’s stunning waters, renting a jet ski offers a combination of independence and adventure. Many travelers find it a great value, especially with the included fuel, detailed instructions, and the chance to cruise at up to 50 mph. Plus, the ability to navigate your own route and visit spots like Crab Island makes it a flexible option.

This experience is perfect if you’re comfortable with water activities and want to explore at your own pace, rather than joining a guided tour. The friendly staff, positive reviews, and scenic setting make it a reliable choice, especially if you’re after a memorable, adrenaline-fueled outing.

However, if you’re hoping for more of an ocean adventure or have very young children, this might not be the best fit due to restrictions on entry into the Gulf and age limits. Also, be prepared for some paperwork if you’re under 30, and plan your timing around the 6 pm return rule.

This jet ski rental is a solid way to add a splash of excitement to your Destin trip — just remember to book in advance, especially during busy times, and enjoy the ride.

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