New jet ski rules in Cyprus: fines for violations of up to €1,500

Cyprus is tightening the rules governing the operation and rental of pleasure craft. The new legislation has already been adopted but has not yet come into force. Under the current rules, jet skis may only be rented and operated by adults. When renting, customers must present identification, and their details must be entered in a special logbook. This includes their first and last name, residential address details and contact information, as well as information about the rental.

Before handing over the vessel, a company employee must provide instructions on safe operation. The renter and the company representative then sign a confirmation that the instructions have been given. At the same time, responsibility for monitoring the use of the vessel also lies with the company that rented it out.

Since 2020, not only tourists but also permanent residents of Cyprus have been allowed to rent a high-speed vessel without an operating licence, provided they meet the established conditions. Minors may be on board as passengers, but are not allowed to operate the vessel.

The new legislation provides for significantly stricter fines. For example, operating a vessel without the required licence is currently punishable by a fine of €85.43, whereas once the new rules come into force, the fine will be €1,500. The administrative fine that may be imposed by the deputy minister of shipping could be even higher.

Companies providing water-based recreational services must hold the appropriate licence and operate in locations designated in beach-use plans. Their activities must be carried out on the basis of a tender organised by the relevant local authority.

Managers and employees of such companies will be subject to certain requirements, including holding a high-speed vessel operating licence, a first-aid certificate and lifeguard training.

Requirements regarding safe distances have also been established. Jet skis must remain at least 100 metres seaward of the buoys marking the swimming area.

For water-surface towed attractions, such as banana boats, a distance of at least 200 metres from the shore or another fixed object is required. For towed airborne devices, such as parachutes, the minimum distance is 300 metres.

Patrol services carry out inspections at sea. However, the authorities note that regularly checking rented jet skis directly at sea is not always possible or safe, which is why particular importance is placed on prevention, safety briefings and monitoring by the companies.