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Jet Ski Rental All Day, Affordable All Day, Fun All Day!
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common questions
Are reservations necessary?
Reservations are not required but highly recommended. Weekends are our busiest times, so it's best to book a rental.
How old do I have to be to rent a jet ski?
The minimum age to rent a jet ski is 18 years old. Official identification is required.
What is included in the rent?
We supply life jackets, dock lines and bumpers (upon request).
What counts as a full-day rental?
Customers can check in any time after 10:00 AM and must return the Jet Ski by 7:00 PM. If you arrive after 12pm, you must let us know so we can coordinate.
What should I bring?
A valid government-issued photo ID is required for operators. You should also bring sunscreen, a towel and water to stay hydrated!
Where can I park?
Paid parking is available at the 31st Street Harbor garage at 3155 S. Lake Shore Dr. or at 641 E 31st Street.
I've never ridden a jet ski, can anyone show me what to do?
Upon collection, our friendly staff will go through an operational and safety briefing to ensure you have the right information to enjoy your tour. This is also a great opportunity to review the "Water Rules" and get all your questions answered.
What is the top speed on jet skis?
We have different models that differ in speed. Top speed is between 50 and 71 mph, but water conditions and total weight on board will have an impact.
where are the limits
There are no borders! Take your jet ski wherever you want. However, please note that we do not recommend navigating the Chicago River. Long waits to enter/exit the river are common, it is a quiet area and the river conditions facilitate damage to personal watercraft. The beach is also not allowed. Anchors may be available upon request.
Can we disconnect from three people?
For liability reasons, we allow a maximum of 3 drivers or passengers per jet ski. However, only 2 adults (no more than 450 lbs combined) are allowed on a single jet ski.
What is your refund policy in case of bad weather?
Safety is our priority. If we are concerned that the weather is an issue, we will either reschedule or issue a full refund, depending on your needs. The decision will be made on the morning of the operation.
Is gas included?
Natural gas is not included. Upon arrival, the jet ski is fully stocked and must be returned full. If you return the jet ski after the gas station closes, you will be charged for fuel.
Where can I refuel on the lake?
Most Chicago ports have a gas dock available to the public. Premium fuel is required when renting the GP1800R and is only available in Diversey Harbor. If you refuel at the port, you must present your receipt to ensure that the correct gasoline was used.
Is there a security deposit?
A security deposit of $1,000.00 per ski is required. The security deposit is charged at the time of your reservation and requires a credit card that matches the Operator ID. No debit cards or cash allowed.
When will my deposit be refunded?
The authorization lock will be removed within 24 hours of returning the device if it is returned in the same condition you received it. Once cleared by us, the time it takes for the block to return to your card varies by bank. The average transaction cancellation for credit cards is usually within 2-7 days, but can take longer.
How do I make a reservation?
Reservations can only be made online at:nextwavewatersports.com
Do I need a boat license?
No boat license required!
Do you offer rent by the hour?
Not normally. However, when we have free availability, we are open for same-day hourly rentals. With that in mind, reservations are not accepted for hourly rentals and you must call to confirm availability.
We are open for same-day hourly bookings if not all jet skis are booked. However, we do not accept bookings for hourly rentals. Please call to confirm availability.
What if we run into problems and can't recover the devices in time?
We know that not everything goes as planned, so we recommend returning to the port well in advance, by 7 pm. All late returns are subject to a fee of $4.00 per minute.
Where are you?
We are located at J Dock on 31st Street Harbor! The port address is 3155 S Lake Shore Dr. Chicago, IL 60616.
Do we need a vehicle that can be towed?
No! Our jet skis are already equipped and ready to hit the water.
Can I use a translator for the safety instructions?
Unfortunately, for security reasons, it is necessary that the operator(s) speak fluent English. It is important that all safety and operating instructions are understood.
Can my children ride with me?
Anyone over 42 inches tall can be a passenger! Please note that no one can sit in front of the driver.
How many people can ride a jet ski?
All of our jet skis are 3 seater but to ensure you have a safe and fun experience on the water we have a limit of 2 adults or 450lbs.
What is your cancellation policy?
We have a 48 hour cancellation policy. If you have to cancel your booking and we are notified at least 48 hours before your booking date, we will refund 85% of the total rental amount. If you cancel for any reason and we are notified less than 48 hours before your booking date, we cannot refund any part of the payment. All sales within 48 hours are final and non-refundable. Rebooking is only allowed if we are notified at least 48 hours before the booking date.
All cancellation or rescheduling requests and amendments must be emailed to[Email protected]All requests must be submitted by the holder of the reservation and include the following information: name, confirmation number, date of reservation and specific details of the request.
Will I be charged pro rata if I start my rental and have to return early due to adverse weather conditions?
We consider 5 hours on the lake as a full day. The clock starts at the beginning of the rental period or 11:00 am, whichever comes first. If there is a midday thunderstorm that is expected to last an hour or less, we will not prorate the rent.
How long does a full tank of fuel last?
It depends on many factors! A full tank lasts most people all day. Always monitor the gas gauge and plan accordingly.
Is there somewhere we can dock to stop and have lunch?
You can always return to your original departure point and dock your jet ski at the floating docks. Pier 31 and Salerno's are great dining options on 31st Street Harbor!
Can the deposit be split between 2 different cards?
Only 1 credit card is allowed per jet ski.
Do you offer insurance?
Novak Rentals, LLC (DBA: Next Wave Watersports) DOES NOT provide insurance against damage to machinery, persons or property. You may be covered by your homeowner's insurance. Check with your insurance agent to see if you can add a rental damage bill to your homeowners policy if you are not already insured.
FAQs
Can you ride a jetski on the Chicago River? ›
However, please note that we advise against going down the Chicago River. Long wait times are common for entering/exiting the river, it is a no-wake zone, and the river conditions make it easy to damage the personal watercraft. Beaching is also not allowed. Anchors may be available upon request.
How old do you have to be to jetski Chicago? ›No person under 10 years of age may operate a motorboat, including personal watercraft (PWC). Age 10 years and less than 12 years of age may only operate under a parent or guardian's direct control.
How much is it to rent a jetski in Chicago? ›Jet Ski Rentals in Chicago [From $95/Hour] | GetMyBoat.
Do you wear a swimsuit to jet ski? ›Whether it's just a pair of swimming trunks or a full-bodied swimsuit, standard swimwear is a must. It's important to wear a bathing suit that is comfortable. Tight-fitting bathing suits are great if they are elastic, as mobility is important when controlling a jet ski.
How close to shore can you ride a jet ski? ›For motorboats other than PWC, too close means within 100 feet of the shoreline. For PWC, too close means within 200 feet of the shoreline.
What is the difference between a Waverunner and a jetski? ›The main difference between a jet ski and a waverunner is the driving position. A Jet Ski offers a more adventurous position than a Waverunner. That's because unlike the Waverunner, you'll most likely be standing up while piloting a Jet Ski. These Personal Watercraft (PWC) are also faster than the competition.
Can a 12 year old drive a jet ski in Michigan? ›Those less than 14 years of age may not legally operate a personal watercraft (PWC) (i.e., jet ski, wave runner).
Can a 13 year old drive a jet ski in Illinois? ›Age Requirements
Personal Watercraft (PWC) operators in Illinois must be at least 10 years of age. Persons who are at least 10 years of age but less than 12 must be under direct control of a responsible person who is at least 18 years of age in order to operate.
A jet ski rental is well worth the money you spend because it will surely give you a fun summer adventure. Go on a PWC adventure and enjoy a memorable family outing.
Is it better to rent or buy a jet ski? ›We are here to tell that renting is the best option. There are many reasons to rent, including maintenance and upfront costs. The costs don't end there. A jet ski can also cost more than a car because it requires maintenance all year.
Do they weigh you when renting skis? ›
The technician doesn't care what you weigh or how old you are, but he or she needs to know these accurate numbers to set your binding properly. Read the fine print of the agreement. It will tell you you're responsible for damages or stolen equipment.
Is 50 hours on a jet ski a lot? ›The average person puts 30 to 50 hours a year on their PWC which would require an annual oil change. If you live somewhere that gets cold, you'll also need to do a winterization service.
Is a jet ski cheaper than a boat? ›Jet skis range in cost from $5,000 to $20,000, making them a much cheaper option than new boat prices. However, the prices listed are the cost of a new jet ski. The cost of used jet skis could vary considerably based on features and how much the previous owner used them on the water.
Is 100 hours a lot on a jet ski? ›As a general rule to go by, a jet ski with more than 100 hours is considered a high hour jet ski. On average a jet ski should have approximately 30 hours a year. Anything more than 30 hours per year is considered “high hours”.
Does it hurt to fall of a jet ski? ›When users are thrown from or fall off such jet skis, the water from the jet propulsion system can cause severe orifice and internal damage. Often the instructions and warnings relating to the inherent risks associated with the safe use of such personal watercraft are inadequate, and accidents and injuries result.
What do girls wear on a jet ski? ›Jet skiing attire can be as simple as a bathing suit/swim trunks/wetsuit, and, of course, the life jacket on top. What's really important here is safety and comfort. Start with a layer of sunscreen first and foremost, and dress like you're ready to get wet because you almost certainly will.
Can you sit down on a jet ski? ›While there are lots of ways to enjoy the water, one of the most popular is a jet ski. Of course, like other aquatic vehicles, there are lots of jet skis from which to choose. People need to find the one that is right for them. Two of the most popular jet ski options are sit down jet skis and stand up jet skis.
Can you flip off a jet ski? ›Rotating the personal watercraft (PWC) in the wrong direction can allow water to enter the engine compartment. This would be bad for the engine and safe operation of the personal watercraft (PWC).
Should you wear a helmet on a jet ski? ›Wear a watercraft helmet
They'll also protect you against any flying debris that might be kicked up by the water. These helmets are highly recommended for jet skiers under the age of 18, but all responsible jet skiers should wear one.
While offering different types of boating experiences, Lake Michigan and the Chicago River both provide ample opportunities for boating fun. Boaters can access the lake and river at the following sites.
Can I drive my boat on the Chicago River? ›
Boaters can travel the Chicago River up to DuSable Lake Shore Drive, but they cannot go on Lake Michigan, Jachimiec said.
Is the Chicago River a no wake zone? ›The no wake zone extends to the ends of the lock guide walls, and the City of Chicago enforces a no wake zone for the entire Chicago River. Reduce loud music to listen to instructions. Keep hands & feet inside the boat. The water currents can cause the vessel to lurch and hands can get crushed.
Can you water ski on a river? ›Water skiing can take place on any type of water – such as a river, lake, or ocean – but calmer waters are ideal for recreational skiing.
Can you drink on a boat in Chicago? ›In Illinois, you can be charged with a DUI if your blood alcohol level is at 0.08 or above. The same laws apply to boating. If you are under the influence of drugs or alcohol while boating, you could face serious penalties, including fines and jail time.
How deep is the water at Navy Pier Chicago? ›Navy Pier is an easy and shallow dive (maximum depth of 15 meters) usually with no current. However the visibility is low and ranges from 3 to 10 meters but this is not really a big problem as there is so much marine life swimming around you!
Can passengers drink alcohol on a boat in Illinois? ›Yes. As long as they are legally allowed to drink alcohol, there is no law in Illinois against your passengers enjoying a drink while on your boat. It is only illegal for you to be under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs while operating or being in actual physical control of the watercraft.
What is the speed limit on the Chicago River boat? ›The boat traffic is heavy, and although its a no wake zone and a 5mph speed limit, there's still plenty of drunk boaters flying around creating dangerous wakes and trying to kill you, so always be alert and paddle on the sides of the river and make way for the touring boats.
Do you need a boating license to rent a boat in Chicago? ›Any person engaging in the business of operating a boat or boats carrying passengers for hire, or renting a boat or boats for hire must first obtain a license from the Department.
Do you have to wear a life jacket on a boat in Illinois? ›Illinois law requires that personal floatation devices, or PFDs – which are life jackets or life vests – be available for each person aboard a boat or other watercraft.
Does sewage go into Chicago River? ›Whenever Chicago gets a lot of rain or there's a significant snowmelt, the Chicagoland water management agencies must dump excess wastewater into the lake and river in order to prevent flooding.
Does Chicago actually dye the river? ›
Patrick's Day: Why they began dyeing the Chicago River green For 60 years, Chicago has turned its downtown river green to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. The annual tradition actually has its roots in a big problem for the city: sewage.
Does the Chicago River have sewage? ›Treated sewage contributes to a growing 'dead zone'
That's because when heavy rains flood the sewers, untreated wastewater still gets released directly into the river.