Taking to the water on a jet ski is one of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable, and a fun way to enjoy a beach holiday. However, jet skis are very powerful water craft and can be dangerous. Inexperience and inattention can result in serious, even fatal, accidents. In Thailand, you also have to be sure you rent jet skis from licensed, insured rental companies.
As with any water sport, you need to be aware of risks associated with using a jet ski. According to www.safetyresource.org, the vast majority of jet ski accidents involve a collision with another vessel. Inexperienced jet ski drivers are often unaware of the limitations of their craft in terms of speed and stopping distance, or the relationship between power and steering. Other potential problems include collisions with swimmers, head injuries, drowning, broken bones and other injuries related to improper handling of the vehicle. In addition to medical expenses, having to pay for damage to rental equipment can be very costly.
Some tips for renting jet skis in Thailand:
Only rent from licensed jet ski rental companies. Jet skis available for rental should also be licensed. The license numbers should be prominently displayed on both sides of the bow. All jet skis must be insured.
For personal safety, only take to the water on a jet ski when the seas are calm.
If you see a red flag, this indicates that it is not safe to swim. The red flag also signals that it is also not a good time to venture out on a jet ski.
Wear a life vest when riding a jet ski. Check to see that the life vest has a whistle securely fastened by a line to the front of the jacket.
Jet skis are not permitted in areas designated for swimming only. These areas are marked by floats and roped off.
Jet skis drivers are also required to stay within 500 metres of the coastline.
Do not mix alcohol and water sports.
The best advice for jet ski rentals is to use good judgment and only deal with reputable, licensed rental companies.
If in doubt or you need assistance, please call the Tourist Police Hotline on 1155. For emergencies, call 1669.
Additional Information
(The following information sources are not part of the TAT News Room)
Phuket.com: Jet Skis in Phuket – Phuket Activities
Discovery Thailand: Jet Skis on Phuket in Phuket
SafetyResource.org: Jet Ski Accidents
National Association of Rescue Divers: Personal Water Craft (PWC)
