**Title: Legal Age and Regulations for Jet Ski Operation in Cyprus After Protaras Accident**
A recent incident involving a jet ski in Protaras has raised questions about the legal age and regulations governing the operation of personal watercraft in Cyprus. On Saturday afternoon, a 17-year-old girl operating a jet ski collided with a towed inflatable, resulting in injuries to two passengers on the inflatable and requiring the teenage operator to seek hospital treatment.
According to police reports, the collision occurred while the inflatable, which was carrying five individuals, was being towed. A 48-year-old man and a seven-year-old girl sustained injuries in the accident, while the 17-year-old jet ski operator was transported to Archbishop Makarios III Hospital for medical attention. The police have initiated an investigation to determine the circumstances and cause of the collision.
Under current Cypriot law, individuals under the age of 17 are prohibited from operating personal watercraft, including jet skis. However, a 17-year-old can obtain a learner vessel operator’s license, which allows them to operate a jet ski only when accompanied by a licensed adult. Full operator licenses are available to individuals aged 18 and older, contingent upon the completion of an approved training program and passing examinations conducted by the competent authority in collaboration with the Cyprus Sailing Federation.
The Recreational Navigation in the Republic and Other Related Matters Law of 2026, recently approved by the Cypriot parliament, outlines these regulations. It specifies that while 17-year-olds may hold a learner’s license, they must always be supervised by an individual who possesses the appropriate license for the vessel and the navigational area.
The legislation also addresses the operation of rented jet skis and other Category B motorized vessels. Under certain conditions, individuals without a full operator’s license may operate rented recreational vessels with an engine output of up to 85 kilowatts and a maximum speed of 35 knots. For rented jet skis, the limits are higher, allowing for an engine output of up to 135 kilowatts and a maximum speed of 45 knots. These rented vessels must be provided by licensed beach-based water sports and recreational businesses and are subject to geographical and temporal restrictions.
Licensed operators face fewer restrictions and may operate rented vessels with an engine output of up to 150 kilowatts, provided they adhere to the specified geographical and time limits. Furthermore, the law establishes liability for vessel owners and rental operators. If an owner or their representative allows a vessel to be used in a manner that constitutes an offense, they may be prosecuted as an accomplice. However, they can avoid liability if they can prove they were unaware of the offense and that it did not result from their actions or omissions.
Additionally, all jet skis must be legally registered and possess the necessary circulation licenses, ensuring compliance with safety and operational standards.
The Protaras incident has sparked discussions about the safety of young operators on personal watercraft and the importance of adhering to legal regulations. As investigations continue, authorities are likely to review the current laws and regulations to enhance safety measures for water sports activities in Cyprus.
As the summer season continues, it remains crucial for both operators and rental businesses to understand and comply with the legal framework governing jet ski operation to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all individuals involved in water sports.