Fast water, big views, clear rules. A jet ski rental in St. George’s Bay is one of those Malta activities that feels like instant freedom, with a professional briefing and a small group setup that keeps things controlled. I especially love how self-driving feels on your own time, and I also like that the scenery is right there in front of you, not something you only see from a brochure.

What I like most is the overall package: you get a life jacket, fuel costs are covered, and you ride with fully comprehensive insurance included. One possible drawback to plan for is the no-frills policy around devices and cash, since cameras and cellphones are not allowed, and for a 1-hour session there’s a cash-only refundable security deposit.

Key Things to Know Before You Go

• St. George’s Bay, right off the jetty: You launch from the jetty behind Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel.
• Small group, limited to 10: Fewer people makes the handoff to the jet skis feel smoother.
• Self-driving with an instructor briefing: You learn how to run the jet ski safely before you go solo or with a passenger.
• Life jacket and fuel costs included: Fewer add-ons, more time focusing on the ride.
• Insurance is included: Fully comprehensive coverage is part of the deal.
• No cameras or cellphones on the water: Plan to rely on your memory.

Where You Start Off in St. Julian’s (Jetty Directions That Actually Help)

Your ride begins at the jetty located behind the Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel (formerly Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort), address 8, Ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ, St. Julian’s. This matters because you are not meeting at a generic downtown shop. You are going to the marina area, then down to the water.

When you arrive, look for a black iron gate near the entrance to the hotel’s underground parking lot. Go through the gate, head down the ramp, turn left, and follow the yellow line painted on the ground until you reach the jetty where jet skis are parked. If you’re the type who likes being early, this route is easy, but it still pays to arrive with a little buffer so you do not feel rushed when you have to sign the paperwork and get your briefing.

Also note that you can come in anytime between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Because rentals are first-come, first-served, your exact start time depends on how quickly you can be fitted with a jet ski and run through the safety check.

Safety Briefing, Maritime Rules, and How the Ride Works

Before you take off, you’ll get a safety briefing from a professional, experienced instructor. This is not just a quick talk. You’ll learn how to use the jet ski properly, plus the maritime rules and regulations you need to follow while you ride.

The big thing for most first-time riders is that you are self-driving. That means you are not just sitting on a seat and hoping the guide knows where to turn. You’ll go out into St. George’s Bay while riding solo or with a passenger, and the briefing is meant to set you up so you can steer confidently and follow the safety expectations.

A few practical rules worth knowing upfront:

• Drivers must be at least 18 years old and present a valid, legally binding ID (passport or ID card). If you show up without the right document, you forfeit the trip and no refunds are given.
• Everyone must sign an indemnity form before renting the jet ski.
• You get a life jacket, and it’s part of the provided gear for the ride.

The experience is built for an English-speaking instructor, and the group size is limited to 10 participants. In plain terms, that usually means you get more attention than you would in a huge operation.

What You Get in St. George’s Bay Views (15 Minutes to 1 Hour)

The core of this activity is simple: you rent a jet ski and explore St. George’s Bay at your own pace within the session you book. The listing frames it as a thrill ride with an adrenaline rush, and that’s exactly what you should expect: acceleration, turns, and the feeling of being out on open water while the coastline and sea views slide past.

If you choose the shorter option (15 minutes), you’re buying a fast hit of excitement. It’s enough time to feel the controls, get a couple of moments for your own routes, and enjoy the sea and seascapes around St. George’s Bay without it turning into a half-day mission.

If you choose the longer option (up to 1 hour), you get more time to settle into the rhythm. You can focus more on enjoying the natural surroundings and wider views, instead of thinking about time running out. Just keep in mind that longer sessions also come with a refundable security deposit requirement (more on that next).

Either way, you’re riding in Malta’s Mediterranean setting, and the bay is the star. The activity is designed so you’re not staring at a single spot the entire time. You’re meant to move, explore, and take in the area from the water.

Price and Value: What $47 Covers (and What Costs Extra)

The price is listed as $47 per person. On paper, it’s not a bargain compared to something like a beach stroll, but jet ski time is a niche, high-energy activity, and this one includes more than many budget-style rentals.

Here’s what you can count on being included:

• Jet ski ride (session time based on availability)
• Briefing by a professional and experienced instructor
• Life jacket
• All fuel costs
• Fully comprehensive insurance

That fuel and insurance piece is the main value. It reduces the usual guessing game about hidden add-ons. You’re paying for the experience as a package, not piecing together parts of it.

What is not included:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks

So if you’re staying in an area that feels far from St. Julian’s marina, you’ll want to plan your own transport time. Also, bring a realistic attitude toward food. This is a ride, not a long restaurant stop. You’ll likely eat before or after, not during.

One more value consideration: the activity is small group limited to 10. When the operation stays controlled, it usually means less waiting around and more actual seat time.

What to Bring, Plus Rules That Affect Your Day

This is where you can make or break the experience. If you show up ready, the ride feels easy. If you forget one thing, you might lose time sorting it out.

Bring:

• Passport or ID card
• Comfortable shoes
• Swimwear
• Towel
• Comfortable clothes
• Cash
• Deposit
• Motion sickness prevention

Motion sickness is called out in the guidance, and it’s also part of the not-suitable list. If you’re the type who feels queasy on boats or rides, take the prevention seriously and consider whether jet ski speed will be a problem for you.

Important restrictions:

• Cameras are not allowed
• Cellphones are not allowed
• Intoxication and alcohol and drugs are not allowed
• Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle are not allowed

That no-phone, no-camera rule is worth planning around. If you want photos, you’ll need to rely on the moments you can remember rather than expecting to film yourself during the ride.

The cash-only security deposit for longer sessions

For a 1-hour rental, there is a refundable security deposit of €100 for each jet ski, and it must be paid in cash beforehand. Credit or debit card payments are not accepted for the deposit. If you’re doing the longer session, make sure you arrive with the cash ready, or you may have a stressful scramble at check-in.

Who This Jet Ski Rental Suits Best (And Who Should Skip It)

This activity is built for people who want a fast, hands-on water thrill. You do not just watch from the shoreline. You drive, you follow maritime rules, and you spend your time on the water taking in St. George’s Bay.

It tends to suit:

• Adults who want a short adventure without a full-day tour commitment
• First-timers who are okay listening to safety instructions and following clear rules
• People traveling in a small group, since it’s limited to 10 participants
• Riders who enjoy being on the water and don’t mind light logistical rules like signing an indemnity form

It is not suitable for:

• Children under 5
• Pregnant women
• People with back problems or heart problems
• People with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
• People over 65
• People over 287 lbs (130 kg)
• People with motion sickness
• Drivers under 18

If you fall into any of these categories, it’s better to look for a different water activity that matches your needs. This is a ride where balance, speed, and physical comfort matter.

Also, check your comfort with the session length. If you want more time on the water, look for the 1-hour option. If you just want a taste of jet skiing, the 15-minute ride can be perfect.

Should You Book St. Julian’s Jet Ski Rental?

I’d book this if you want a focused jet ski experience with real structure: a safety briefing, life jacket provided, fuel included, and fully comprehensive insurance wrapped into the price. For the $47 per person cost, it’s one of those activities that feels like value because you avoid the usual add-on chaos.

I would not book it if you rely on your phone for photos during activities, or if you have any motion sickness risk. Also, if you are not comfortable bringing cash for a potential security deposit, choose the shorter session or plan your cash ahead for the 1-hour option.

If your goal is a quick adrenaline hit with views over St. George’s Bay, this is a strong choice. Just show up prepared, listen closely during the briefing, and treat the rules like part of the fun, not a slowdown.

FAQ

How long is the jet ski rental?

The rental duration ranges from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the session you select and availability.

What is the price per person?

The price is listed as $47 per person.

What is included with the rental?

You get the jet ski ride, a briefing by a professional instructor, a life jacket, all fuel costs, and fully comprehensive insurance.

Is hotel pickup or drop-off included?

No. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Where do I meet for the jet ski ride?

Meet at the jetty behind Verdi St. George’s Bay Marina Hotel (formerly Marina Hotel Corinthia Beach Resort), at 8, Ix-Xatt Ta’ San Ġorġ, St. Julian’s. Look for the black iron gate near the entrance to the hotel’s underground parking lot, then follow the ramp and yellow line to the jetty.

Who can drive the jet ski?

Drivers must be at least 18 years old and must show a valid passport or ID card.

What ID do I need to bring?

Bring a passport or an ID card, and it must be legally binding. Failure to present the required document means forfeiting the trip with no refunds.

Is there a security deposit?

For a 1-hour rental, a refundable security deposit of €100 per jet ski is required in cash beforehand.

Are cameras or cellphones allowed during the ride?

No. Cameras and cellphones are not allowed.

What is the cancellation policy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.