1-Hour Guided Jet Ski Tour in St. Thomas — Jet Ski Hassel & Water Islands from Frenchman's Reef
Cut loose from the Westin dock and chase aquamarine channels around Hassel and Water Islands on a one-hour guided jet ski tour out of Frenchman’s Reef. Fast-paced, guide-led, and rich with local history and reefside scenery, this trip is a compact way to feel St. Thomas from the water.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring a waterproof camera or mount
Strap or mount your camera—phones can be used if sealed in a waterproof case; expect spray and occasional small chop.
Arrive 15 minutes early for check-in
Dockside Watersports Center requires a 15-minute pre-departure check-in; allow extra time if using hotel self-parking.
Practice the reboarding swim
You'll need to demonstrate an unassisted ~20-yard swim and reboard a ski—be confident in your swimming and plan accordingly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen and secure eyewear
Protect marine ecosystems with reef-safe sunscreen and keep sunglasses tethered with a strap to avoid losing them at speed.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet cove on the lee side of Hassel Island visible from the water where early archaeological digs found Saladoid artifacts
- •Honeymoon Beach on Water Island—small, often less crowded, worth a post-ride stop for a swim and picnic
Wildlife
- •Brown pelican
- •Reef fish (parrotfish and sergeant majors)
Conservation Note
Operators encourage reef-safe sunscreen and no-touch policies for coral; staying on the vessel and using designated entry points helps reduce damage to fragile reef habitats.
Hassel Island shows evidence of Saladoid-era occupation and later maritime fortifications; the harbor area was central to U.S. Virgin Islands shipping and naval activity through the 19th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the channel between Charlotte Amalie and Hassel Island for harbor/plane shots
- • West side of Water Island approaching Honeymoon Beach for reef and sand contrast
What to Bring
Life jacket (provided but bring your own if preferred)Essential
A properly fitted PFD is essential for safety and comfort on the tour.
Waterproof phone case or action cameraEssential
Protects electronics from spray and lets you capture fast-moving scenes.
Rashguard or quick-dry top
Protects skin from sun and chafe during high-speed riding.
Sunglass strap
Keeps eyewear secure during quick turns and waves.
Common Questions
Do I need prior jet ski experience to join?
No—guides provide a brief orientation and the route is guide-led, but you must be comfortable operating a motorized watercraft and meet safety requirements.
Can someone under 18 operate a jet ski?
No—operators must be 18 or older and present a valid driver’s license; riders aged 10–17 can ride as passengers for free.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled for unsafe conditions; the operator offers full refunds if canceled 24 hours before departure due to weather.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes—life jackets are included and must be worn for the duration of the tour.
Is there a weight limit to operate the jet ski?
Yes—single operators have a maximum weight (operator limit) and a combined operator-plus-rider limit; confirm with the operator when booking.
Where do I check in and how early should I arrive?
Check in at the Dockside Watersports Center at the Westin Frenchman's Reef 15 minutes prior to departure; add extra time if using hotel self-parking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
1 hour
Location
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should have moderate fitness and basic swimming comfort; expect short bursts of speed and balance demands.
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