Wave Runners
Wave runners are something like floating motorcycles. They are not the same
as Jet Skis. You sit astride and steer with handle bars. They are
propelled by an engine that inhales water and pumps it out a nozzle which swivels
to provide steering. They can accommodate from one to three people,
depending on the model. Riders wear a wrist strap connected to a kill
switch which
shuts the engine off if the rider falls off (an infrequent event)
so the machine stops. You will see a demonstration of how to get back on
in the water.
To rent a wave runner on Hilton Head you must have a driver's license, and children must be accompanied by an adult (they can steer if you let them). Wave runners are very fast and have no brakes, so careless operation can result in tragic consequences. Life jackets are a must. It is important to stay well away from other wave runners (they can turn on a dime) and boats. You are not supposed to jump boat wakes with a wave runner. In my opinion people with bad backs shouldn't go on wave runners (personal experience).
There are three locations on Hilton Head where rental wave runners can be operated: the Calibogue Sound, Broad Creek and Skull Creek. As can be expected, the waters of Broad Creek and Skull Creek are generally calmer than in the sound. Some people prefer a bumpy ride and some don't. Only two companies offer wave running in the Calibogue: Island Water Sports (which also offers wave running in Skull Creek) and H2O Sports Center.
Here are some companies that rent wave runners, in alphabetical order. We make no representation regarding these companies.
Adventure Cruises 843-785-4558 at Shelter cove Harbor.
Aqua Extreme 843-681-2782 at Broad Creek Marina.
C-Katz Watersports
843-681-9008 at the RV Resort Marina at the north end.
H2O Sports Center
843-671-4386.
Located in Harbour Town, in Sea Pines plantation.
Intercoastal Watersports, Inc. 843-681-4111. Located on Skull Creek near the Outdoor RV Resort on the North end.
Island Water Sports South Beach Marina (Sea Pines Plantation) 843-671-7007.
Palmetto Bay Watersports 843-785-2345.
Updated 06/17/07