Lake Michigan Jet Ski Safety Guide

Lake Michigan is open water, and it behaves like it. These are the habits that keep a Chicago ride smooth.

Non-negotiables

• Wear your Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times on the water.
• Keep the safety lanyard attached whenever the engine is running.
• Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Stay inside the briefed ride area and obey no-wake zones.

Wind, waves, and traffic

Wind direction decides your day: an onshore breeze stacks chop against the shoreline, while a calm morning can be glassy. Boat wake near the harbor mouth and off Navy Pier is constant, so cross it at an angle and slow down.

If something goes wrong

• If you fall off, stay with the machine — it floats and it is far easier to spot than you are.
• Re-board from the rear, using the technique covered in your training.
• If you have a problem you cannot solve, signal for help and contact staff at contact@skylinejetski.com details provided at check-in.

Weather calls

Rentals run rain or shine, but Skyline Jetski makes the final call on unsafe conditions. If we cancel for weather, you can reschedule or get a refund.