Reports of dangerous jet ski activity prompts warning to 'respect Safe Bathing Areas'

'We ask all watercraft users to act responsibly'

The Department of Infrastructure’s Harbours Division has issued a warning to personal watercraft users following reports of dangerous activity in Port St Mary.

Jet skis were reported to be travelling at high speed over the weekend in close proximity to swimmers, including families with young children and open-water swimmers.

The Harbours Division says a 'moment of inattention or reckless operation of a high-powered watercraft can have devastating consequences'.

It's described behaviour seen in Chapel Bay as creating a 'significant risk of serious injury or loss of life' and says it is 'entirely unacceptable in areas where people are enjoying the Island's beaches and coastal waters'.

It says: "Watercraft users are reminded they must maintain safe speeds and keep well clear of designated bathing areas at all times.

"All operators have a responsibility to remain aware of other people in the water and to operate their craft in a manner that does not endanger life, cause alarm or compromise public safety."

The Harbours Division says it will 'continue to monitor reports of unsafe behaviour and encourages members of the public to report incidents involving excessive speed, dangerous manoeuvres or the operation of watercraft within Safe Bathing Areas'. 

Reports can also be made to the Marine Operations Centre on 686628.

Where it is safe to do so, members of the public are encouraged to record details such as the time and location of the incident, a description of the craft, registration numbers and photographs or video footage. 

This information can assist with any investigation.

Gary Lewin, Harbour Master, added: "Reports of jet skis travelling at near full speed in close proximity to swimmers are extremely concerning and create an unnecessary risk to public safety. 

"Everyone has a right to enjoy the sea safely, whether they are swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or using a recreational craft.

"Jet skis are capable of travelling at significant speeds and operators must remain aware of their surroundings at all times. 

"We ask all watercraft users to act responsibly, respect Safe Bathing Areas and show consideration for others using the water."

Tips for staying safe on the water:

• Keep well clear of swimmers and designated Safe Bathing Areas.
• Proceed at a safe speed and reduce speed when approaching bays, beaches and harbour areas.
• Maintain a proper lookout for people in the water at all times.
• Remember that children and swimmers can be difficult to spot from a moving craft.
• Operate jet skis and other personal watercraft responsibly at all times.
• Familiarise yourself with local designated Safe Bathing Areas and No Wake Areas before going afloat.

Full details of designated Safe Bathing Areas and No Wake Areas around the Island can be found on the Isle of Man Government website.