Before we get publish our annual Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Jet Skiers tomorrow, we wanted to pause and do something a little different.
Instead of talking about parts, mods, upgrades, or gear, we’re talking about experiences — the places and trips that stick with you long after the photos are posted and the fuel receipts are forgotten.
This year, we’re splitting our 2026 PWC Adventure Bucket List into two parts.
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Part One: International trips
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Part Two: U.S. destinations
You probably already know the “top” jet ski destinations – internationally, that list typically looks like: Bahamas, Ibiza, Spain, Bora Bora, Dubai and Phuket – but instead of rehashing the same list, we’re digging a little deeper and highlighting alternative international locations that deliver unforgettable riding, stunning scenery, and a completely different kind of atmosphere.
These are places that may not scream “jet ski destination” at first glance — but absolutely belong on a serious rider’s bucket list.
WCJ Picks – International Jet Ski Alternatives You May Not Have Considered
Reykjavik, Iceland — Arctic Edge Riding
Jet skiing in Iceland isn’t about speed runs or beach hopping — it’s about scale, silence, and surreal scenery. From Faxaflói Bay, riders can explore cold, glassy waters with views of Reykjavik’s skyline on one side and rugged volcanic landscapes on the other. Puffins nest on nearby islands, whales are occasionally spotted offshore, and the contrast of jet skis against an Arctic backdrop is unforgettable. It’s raw, dramatic, and unlike anywhere else you’ll ride.
Dubrovnik, Croatia — Adriatic History, Then Inland Contrast
Cruising along Dubrovnik’s ancient stone walls by jet ski is a rare perspective on one of Europe’s most striking coastal cities. The Adriatic here is calm, clear, and ideal for relaxed exploration along cliffs and coves. Pair it with a day trip inland to Mostar for a completely different cultural and visual experience, and you’ve got a destination that blends water adventure with deep history and old-world atmosphere.
Whitsunday Islands, Australia — Reef-Side Exploration
This chain of 74 islands off Queensland offers some of the most visually striking riding on the planet. Calm turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and proximity to the Great Barrier Reef make the Whitsundays ideal for long exploratory runs. It’s a destination built around natural beauty rather than nightlife — perfect for riders who want wide-open water and postcard scenery at every stop.
Norwegian Fjords — Still Water, Big Drama
Jet skiing through Norway’s fjords feels almost unreal. Sheer cliffs rise straight out of calm, dark water, waterfalls cascade down rock faces, and the scale of the landscape makes even slow cruising feel epic. Wildlife sightings — seals, seabirds, even eagles — are common, and the peaceful nature of the fjords creates a riding experience that’s more meditative than adrenaline-driven. It’s a reminder that not all great PWC adventures are loud.
Chalkidiki, Greece — Three Peninsulas, Endless Variety
Located in northern Greece, Chalkidiki offers a mix of sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and clear Aegean water spread across three distinct peninsulas. The area is less crowded than Greece’s better-known islands, making it ideal for relaxed exploration and long coastal runs. Add in traditional seaside villages and warm Mediterranean light, and Chalkidiki delivers a slower, richer riding experience.
Mallorca, Spain — Mediterranean Magic Without the Hype
Mallorca blends calm bays, open sea, and rugged coastline into one incredibly versatile destination. Jet ski riders can move from sheltered coves to open Mediterranean stretches in a single outing. Clear blue water, hidden beaches, and vibrant marine life make every ride visually rewarding, while the island’s culture and cuisine round out the experience once you’re back on land.
We’ll be back with part two, highlighting U.S. locations, after our Christmas Gifts special.
