Throttle and Dolphins: Jet Ski the Ole River from Flora-Bama Marina
Two Rider Seating: 1, 2, 3, & 4 Hour Rentals — Launch fast, spot dolphins, and explore the Ole River
You push off from the sun-warmed dock and the Ole River answers like a ready partner: a narrow ribbon of water that dares you to open it up. Spray skims the hull of your two-seat Yamaha as you cut past mangrove fingers and low-lying salt marsh. For a moment the world narrows to the satisfying blur of wind and wake; then a sleek arc of gray rises nearby — a dolphin inspecting your passage as if taking attendance. This is the rhythm of a day at Flora-Bama Marina, where jet-skiing rewrites how you measure time: not by minutes, but by beeps of your heart and the number of dolphins you greet.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early
Check in at the yellow building next to Ole River Grille 15–20 minutes before your reservation and bring the physical driver’s license for the operator.
Respect Designated Zones
Stay within the marked Ole River and intercoastal riding area — no Gulf riding and avoid marked no-wake sections.
Pack Dry Protection
Use a waterproof phone case or dry bag; phones are allowed but at your own risk.
Life Jackets Always
Life jackets are provided and must be worn at all times — safety briefings are mandatory for all drivers and passengers.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddle the quiet back channels near Ono Island for birdwatching
- •Sunset dock at the marina for close-up views of low tide life
Wildlife
Bottlenose Dolphin, Great Blue Heron
Conservation Note
The Ole River and Perdido Bay have sensitive seagrass beds and shorebird habitats—stay in marked channels, use reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid chasing wildlife.
Flora-Bama is a cross-border roadhouse and entertainment complex established mid-20th century that has anchored Gulf Coast culture on the Florida-Alabama line.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Calmer water mornings, Migrating shorebirds, Shoulder-season rates
Challenges: Unpredictable winds, Late-season cold snaps
Spring brings mild temperatures and good wildlife activity, but watch for changing winds that can make the river choppy in the afternoon.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Long daylight hours, High dolphin activity
Challenges: Peak crowds, Hot sun and sunburn risk
Summer is prime for warm-water fun and reliable rentals, but arrive early to avoid crowds and midday heat.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Comfortable temps, Clear water visibility
Challenges: Shortening daylight, Possible tropical activity late season
Fall balances warm water with cooler air and less traffic — great for afternoon cruises and photography.
winter
Best for: Quiet marinas, Lower prices, Crisp air photos
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Reduced service hours
Winter rentals are possible but the water is cooler and operations may have reduced hours; dress in layers.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof Phone CaseEssential
Protects your phone from spray and makes quick photos safer.
Reef-Safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the local marine environment—apply before you mount the ski.
Light Quick-Dry LayersEssential
Layering helps you adapt to cooler mornings and warmer afternoons on the water.
Small Dry Bag
Carry keys, a wallet, and earbuds securely while you ride.
Common Questions
Is there a damage deposit?
Yes — a $250 credit card hold per ski is placed at check-in; it is not a charge and typically clears within 48 hours if no damage is found.
How old do I have to be to drive a jet ski?
Drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license; renters generally must be 19 in Alabama and New England residencies or 18 for other residents.
Can we ride in the Gulf?
No — rentals are restricted to the designated Ole River and intercoastal zones for safety and ecological reasons.
Is there a weight limit per ski?
Yes — a maximum combined weight of 350 lbs per ski is enforced for safety and performance reasons.
Can we switch riders during the rental?
You may drop off a passenger if they no longer wish to ride, but you cannot pick up new passengers during the rental; drivers and riders may swap positions on the same ski.
What should I wear?
Swimwear or quick-dry clothing is recommended; life jackets are provided and required to be worn at all times.
What to Pack
Waterproof phone case (protect photos), reef-safe sunscreen (protect skin & sea), quick-dry clothing (comfort), valid physical driver’s license (required at check-in)
Did You Know
Flora-Bama straddles the Alabama–Florida state line and is famous for its cross-border culture, including the annual Mullet Toss event held on its grounds.
Quick Travel Tips
Drive time from Pensacola International Airport ~30–40 minutes; arrive 15–20 minutes early; bring a physical driver’s license; check local tide and weather before booking
Local Flavor
After a ride, grab a sandwich or cold beer at Ole River Grille next to the marina; for a classic local nightcap cross over to the Flora-Bama roadhouse for live music and a slice of Gulf Coast culture.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Pensacola International (PNS) ~30–40 min drive; Meeting point: 29603 Perdido Beach Blvd, Yellow building by Ole River Grille; Cell service: generally good but spotty in mangrove channels; Permits: none required for casual rentals; Deposit: $250 hold per ski.
Sustainability Note
Stay in designated channels to protect seagrass beds, use reef-safe sunscreen, keep speeds away from wildlife, and pack out all trash to help preserve the bay.