Jet Ski Vs Boat: Which Is More Fun to Drive in Miami

There might not be a better city on the planet to get out on the water than Miami. With great weather and access to Biscayne Bay nearby, no other city gives visitors as many ways to get on the water. Among the city’s most popular water-bound activities is taking jet skis out for a ride and hopping into an open water boat tour. While both water-based activities are extremely entertaining and offer views of the city, a few key differences between jet skis and boats stand out.

When it comes to a jet ski vs boat debate, what should come out on top? Here’s a rundown of both so you can choose the right fit for your trip, the group, and what you plan on doing.

In order to help you decide what is better in terms of enjoyment, it is worth outlining exactly what each thing offers you.

A Jet Ski is actually a compact personal watercraft that is extremely low to the water; essentially, you can feel water from ankle to about your thighs. It is similar to driving a motorcycle while standing up except it has a handlebar. Miami Jet Skis are mostly designed for 1-3 passengers.

Boats are larger water vessels in which you ride inside or outside upon the deck, and it could hold from a few people up to masses. Boats are more stable, more comfortable, and give you a lot more space.

When comparing jet ski vs boat, the bottom line difference: Jet skis are an activity, while a boat is a stage for an activity. Both are worth trying in Miami, but they suit different kinds of people and different kinds of days on the water.

If Miami Beach jet ski rides you’re looking for, they’re abundant and incredibly popular amongst tourists. Nearly all jet ski tours depart from either the shoreline or a marina located near South Beach. All you need to operate a jet ski in Florida as a tourist is a brief safety introduction to hit the water.

The operation is super easy. There is a handlebar to steer, a throttle to go faster, and that’s it. Within a few minutes of jumping on a jet ski, anyone can get the hang of it quickly, and this quick ease of learning is what makes jet skis fun.

If you’re looking to do something more exciting than just cruising on the water, booking a jet ski tour in Miami could be the perfect solution for you. This is a guided experience where a tour leader will lead your group on jet skis along a predetermined route.

Jet Ski riding Miami South Beach tours normally range from an hour to two hours, and you tour quite a range of the bay. A large portion of the Miami Beach jet skiing tours take you around Star Island, the Port of Miami, along the coast of Miami Beach, etc.

One of the most requested jet ski Miami dolphin tours takes guests out onto the open bay with the mission of dolphin-watching. Dolphins are plentiful in Miami’s waters and especially abundant in Biscayne Bay, where they are most likely to be found. Watching the dolphins swimming from a fast, skimming jet ski is a true thrill. Often led by a dolphin-experienced tour guide, these tours are perfect for families and animal lovers.

Jet skis are fun, but they do have some limitations worth knowing:

• They allow a maximum of two to three people, so larger groups cannot ride together
• You will get wet, so it is not the best option if you want to stay dry
• Rentals usually last one to two hours, so it is more of an activity than a full-day experience
• The experience is individual. You are focused on riding rather than socialising with your group

Miami boating can be quite diverse depending on how big or how small a craft you opt for. Rent a smaller craft for your crew of 6 to 10 or charter a large yacht that seats 50 or so. The middle range offers the whole scope from sunset cruises, fishing charter boats, to a full-inclusive party boat for any kind of occasion.

Some companies also offer jet skiing in Miami and boat rental packages together. You can hire the boat and take turns jumping the ski out all day.

Boat trips are considerably more comfortable than jet skis for anything more than an hour. They are more comfortable as you have a proper seat to sit on, can have shade if you want it, and you are not getting soaked every few minutes. If you are planning a half-day or full-day experience on the water, a boat is the more practical and comfortable option.

Groups that involve kids, as well as older people, may also feel that being on a boat is less stressful than dealing with something such as a Jet Ski.

Boats have their drawbacks too:

• They are more expensive than jet ski rentals, especially for private charters
• If you rent a boat yourself, some types require a boating license or prior experience to operate
• They are slower and less exciting
• Larger party boats are shared with other guests, which means less privacy

Opt for the jet ski if you like fast speeds and adventure. This is the optimal choice for singles, couples and groups of two to three when you want more activity and a bit less relaxation. The addition of a jet ski tour or a dolphin tour can give you a nice itinerary for the time.

Opt for a boat rental if you have a larger group, want to travel together at the same time, or desire an extended, relaxed time on the water. Boats provide a superior environment for socialising, parties and experiencing the coastline and waters surrounding Miami.

If you can’t make up your mind between a jet ski and a boat – consider a boat rental with a jet ski Miami package. Many businesses in the Miami area specialise in these packages, which allow you to keep the boat as your base and jet skis as an additional adventure.

Whether you opt for a jet ski or a boat, a tour through Biscayne Bay is another must-do in Miami. If you prefer an all-inclusive approach to boating, Miami Turn Up Entertainment have been running boat parties in the bay for the last 19 years – it would be just you, your group of friends, a DJ and all you can drink with skyline views.

You won’t need a boating licence in Florida for operating a jet ski if you can pass the boater safety course. There are a few age restrictions, so check with your provider prior to booking.

The price will differ depending on your jet ski rental company and length of rental. You can typically find a Miami jet ski rental ranging from $75-$150 per hour per jet ski. Jet ski tours in Miami with a tour guide normally come in per-person prices since the rental itself can be much longer and set to a certain course.

If it’s your first time visiting and you’re in a group, a boat tour would be the better option as it would be more relaxing, easier to connect with your group members and can give you a general view of the city while on the water. While jet ski on the other hand, would be best for thrill seekers for individual adventure.

You can enjoy the water year-round in Miami, though visitors often visit in November through April as this period offers consistently warm and dry weather. The months between June and September are still warm and humid and can have afternoon rain, so early morning or late afternoon activities are suggested.