Jet Skiing with Kids: Fun & Safety Tips for Families on Lake Havasu
Jet skiing is a thrilling way to explore Lake Havasu, and with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic activity for families with kids. At London Bridge Watercraft, we’ve seen countless parents introduce their children to the excitement of riding the waves—and with some simple guidelines, everyone stays safe and has a blast.
Here’s everything you need to know about jet skiing with kids in tow.
Know the Age Rules Before You Ride
Before your child hops on a jet ski, it’s important to know Arizona’s personal watercraft regulations. In general:
Operators must be at least 12 years old in Arizona to drive a personal watercraft (PWC) without adult supervision.
Kids under 12 can still ride as passengers as long as the jet ski is properly sized and operated by an adult.
All riders—no matter the age—must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket.
Check with us before booking if you’re unsure about age limits or rider eligibility. We’re happy to walk you through it.
Choose the Right Jet Ski for Family Rides
When jet skiing with kids, you’ll want a model built for stability and comfort. Our fleet includes three-seater models that are ideal for one adult and one or two small passengers.
Look for:
Wide, stable hulls that minimize tipping
Comfortable seating with handholds or straps for extra support
Dry storage for snacks, water, and sunscreen
Pro tip: Pack some sunglasses straps and waterproof sunscreen. Lake Havasu sun is strong even on overcast days!
Safety First: Kid-Specific Tips
Riding with kids means slowing things down and keeping safety a priority. Here are our top safety recommendations:
Start slow: Get your child used to the sensation of the jet ski at idle or low speed before picking up the pace.
Go in calm waters: Stay near the shoreline or in coves when introducing young riders.
Give clear signals: Teach your child a simple tap or hand gesture if they want to slow down or stop.
Avoid sharp turns or jumping wakes while children are onboard.
Reinforce the life jacket rule every time.
Our team will give you a full safety rundown before you head out—just ask if you want extra tips for family riders.
Make It Fun, Not Just Safe
Once you’ve covered the basics, it’s time to enjoy the ride! Here are a few ways to make your family jet ski adventure extra fun:
Play tour guide: Point out landmarks like London Bridge or nearby cliffs and coves.
Take breaks to swim (in safe areas away from traffic).
Turn it into a treasure hunt: Spot different birds, boats, or colors on the water.
Let kids take photos (with a waterproof camera or phone case)—they’ll love capturing the moment.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Even with good planning, things like wind, waves, or nerves can change your outing. If your child feels uncomfortable at any point, don’t force it. Take breaks or head back to shore—Lake Havasu will still be here tomorrow.
We also recommend:
Bringing snacks and water to avoid mid-ride meltdowns
Booking earlier in the day, when the water is calmer and temps are lower
Wearing long-sleeved rash guards for sun protection and comfort
Family Fun Starts at the Dock
At London Bridge Watercraft, we want your Lake Havasu experience to be as smooth and memorable as possible. Whether it’s your child’s first time on the water or you’re planning a whole weekend of family rides, we’re here to help.
We’ll walk you through the equipment, recommend the best family-friendly areas to explore, and make sure you have everything you need for a safe and fun ride.
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