Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve offers plenty of ways to relax, but if you are looking for the most adrenaline-filled experience on the island, jet skis are it. These are the fastest, most physical, and most in-demand excursions available at Ocean Cay.
They are also the most misunderstood.
This guide explains exactly how Ocean Cay jet ski excursions work, what the experience is really like, age rules that matter for families, and who will love this excursion versus who should probably skip it.
First, a Reality Check About Jet Skis on Ocean Cay
Before getting into the details, it is important to set expectations.
Jet ski excursions on Ocean Cay are guided tours, not free-ride rentals. You will drive your own jet ski, but you do not choose where you go or stop whenever you want. The experience is structured, safety-focused, and very dependent on weather conditions.
That structure is not a bad thing. In fact, most guests report that it makes the experience better, especially for mixed groups with different skill levels.
Jet Ski Excursion Options on Ocean Cay
Ocean Cay offers two jet ski–based excursions. Both use two-seat WaveRunners and both are guided from start to finish.
WaveRunner Tour (Around Ocean Cay)
This is the most popular jet ski excursion on the island.
What it is
- A guided jet ski tour around the waters near Ocean Cay
- Guests ride in a group and follow the lead instructor
- You control your own WaveRunner, but the route is fixed
How the tour works
- Before departure, guests receive a short safety and operation briefing
- Staff ask about prior jet ski experience and comfort with speed
- Riders are loosely grouped from fastest to slowest
- A lead guide rides up front, often at full throttle
- A second guide stays at the back with slower or more cautious riders
- The group stops every few minutes to regroup before continuing
This setup allows experienced riders to go fast without pressuring beginners to keep up.
Who this is best for
- Thrill-seekers
- Guests comfortable with speed and motion
- Parents riding with kids who meet the age requirement
Brown’s Cay Island Escape by Jet Ski
This option adds a destination element to the jet ski experience.
What makes it different
- A longer guided ride
- Travel by jet ski to nearby Brown’s Cay
- Time off the jet ski at a beach area before returning
Why some guests prefer it
- Slightly slower overall pace
- More scenic variety
- A break from riding to relax on land
This is often the better choice for guests who want adventure without being on the jet ski nonstop.
Age Rules and Family Considerations
This is one of the biggest sources of confusion, especially for families.
Age requirements
- Drivers must be 18 or older
- Riders must be at least 10 years old
- Riders ages 10–17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Teenagers cannot drive, even if they are licensed drivers at home. Parents can drive with a child riding along, which makes this excursion workable for families with older kids.
Jet skis are two-seaters, and the driver cannot be switched during the tour.
Pricing and Booking Details to Know
A few practical details that are easy to miss:
- Pricing is per jet ski, not per person
- Only one guest needs to book and is charged
- The companion rider must be registered at the excursions desk
- Payment is charged to one onboard account
This explains why the price looks high at first glance. You are paying for the entire WaveRunner, not each rider individually.
Physical Requirements and Safety
Jet skiing on Ocean Cay is physically demanding.
You should expect:
- Continuous riding
- Frequent turns
- Impact from waves, especially on windy days
This excursion is not recommended for guests with back, neck, or joint issues, recent injuries, or for anyone who is pregnant. Waivers are required, and all participants must understand English for the safety briefing.
Weather Dependency and Cancellations
Jet ski excursions are extremely weather dependent.
Strong winds or choppy seas will cancel tours, sometimes multiple departures in a single day. Afternoon departures are more likely to be canceled than morning ones.
If MSC cancels the excursion due to weather, guests are refunded. Because Ocean Cay is MSC’s private island, there is no risk of the ship leaving without you.
What to Do With Your Belongings
There are no lockers or secure storage areas.
Most guests:
- Leave belongings on the dock
- Do not bring wallets
- Wear SeaPass cards in waterproof holders
Phones in waterproof cases are generally allowed, and many guests use GoPros or head-mounted cameras without issues. Sunscreen is highly recommended, preferably waterproof.
Real-World Pros and Cons
Based on consistent guest feedback, here is how this excursion tends to shake out.
Pros
- Well-organized and safety-focused
- Guides are attentive and flexible
- Thrilling without feeling chaotic
- Scenic views around the island
- Occasional wildlife sightings, including dolphins
Cons
- High chance of weather cancellation
- Physically tiring
- Less freedom than independent jet ski rentals elsewhere
- Can feel rushed for guests who want frequent stops
Is a Jet Ski Excursion Worth It on Ocean Cay?
For the right guest, absolutely.
Jet skis are often described as the most memorable paid activity on Ocean Cay. They are fast, fun, and feel very different from a beach day.
That said, they are not for everyone. If you are looking for relaxation, flexibility, or a low-effort experience, you will likely enjoy Ocean Cay more by skipping this excursion and focusing on the beach or calmer water activities.
How Jet Skis Fit Into a Full Ocean Cay Day
Jet ski excursions work best when booked earlier in the day. Most guests follow them with free beach time, lunch on the island, and a slower afternoon.
It is generally not a good idea to stack jet skis with another physically demanding excursion on the same day. But it is the perfect combo to a relaxing day on the beach, bar or lighthouse.
Final Thoughts
Jet ski excursions at Ocean Cay deliver exactly what they promise: speed, structure, and adrenaline. They are guided, physically demanding, and weather dependent, but they are also well-run and genuinely fun.
If you know what you are signing up for and meet the age and physical requirements, this can easily become the highlight of your Ocean Cay stop.