Turks and Caicos Jet Cars

If you’ve seen what looks like a Bugatti or a McLaren coasting above the waves in Turks and Caicos, it’s not your imagination. Water jet cars, or water sports cars, are one of the newest water sports activities in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Designed to resemble luxury cars, these boats come in a range of colors and styles and seat between two and four people.

Typically, you’ll see jet cars in the same areas as jet skis. These include the La Famille Express shipwreck in Long Bay and the uninhabited cays off northeastern Providenciales. Currently, Providenciales is the only island that offers jet car tours and rentals. It’s best to book well in advance.

The restrictions and safety precautions for jet cars—such as a minimum age for drivers and weight limits—are similar to those for jet skis. The minimum age to operate a jet car in Turks and Caicos is 18, and a valid driver's license is required before you can rent the watercraft.

How Jet Cars Work

Jet cars are essentially jet ski-like boats that are outfitted to look like cars. Most of the exterior features, like the tires and car doors, are decorative.

The jet cars you’ll find in the Turks and Caicos Islands work similarly to a jet ski. They are propelled by a jet propulsion system that pushes the car along the ocean’s surface via a high-powered stream.

Operating the boat, however, is more similar to driving a small boat or car. The driver navigates the jet car using a steering wheel, a gas pedal, and a reverse pedal.

Jet Cars vs. Jet Skis

While jet cars and jet skis both offer riders the opportunity to drive a high-speed watercraft in the Turks and Caicos Islands, there are a few notable differences.

Firstly, jet skis are smaller and quicker to maneuver than jet cars. Jet cars, on the other hand, provide a more comfortable ride than a jet ski, with a backrest, semi-closed interior, and a far lower risk of falling into the water.

Price is another notable difference. Jet cars are significantly more expensive than jet skis—the cost of renting a jet car for an hour can be double a one-hour jet ski rental.

Weather Conditions and Safety

The Turks and Caicos Islands boasts typically calm waters that make the surrounding ocean enjoyable for using jet cars and jet skis. However, certain conditions can make a ride uncomfortable or dangerous.

Jet cars are designed to be used on flat and calm water. Large wakes or rough conditions can potentially capsize the watercraft. As such, tours are only offered on calm, clear days without rain.

Here in the Turks and Caicos, wind speeds under 10 mph (16 km/h) usually result in perfect flat water. With speeds over 16 mph (26 km/h), you’ll be contending with 1–3 foot (0.3–1 m) waves. Check the wind forecast ahead of time and consider scheduling accordingly.

Note that rain can also interrupt a jet car tour. Most companies have forgiving bad weather policies, and will either refund your tour or reschedule it for a clear day in case of bad weather.