Throttle and Tide: Jet Ski Orange Beach on 2024 Yamaha VX Cruisers
Launch from Zeke’s Landing and carve the bays, sandbars, and pass on brand-new Yamaha VX Cruisers
Morning comes fast at Zeke’s Landing, where the docks smell like salt and diesel and gulls angle into the breeze as if critiquing your route. The marina hums with charter boats loading bait, but your world is smaller and sharper: a 2024 Yamaha VX Cruiser bobbing lightly, Bluetooth ready, hull eager. The dock manager hands over a life jacket, runs through a clear safety brief, and checks your photo ID. Then, the throttle nudges forward, and the bays of Orange Beach open like a map you can feel under your feet.
Trail Wisdom
Ride Early for Smooth Water
Morning often brings calmer conditions and fewer boats near Perdido Pass and the bay channels.
Mind the Markers
Stay inside channel markers and obey no-wake zones around marinas and bridges to avoid shallow flats and seagrass.
Hydrate Like It’s Summer
Wind and sun mask dehydration; drink regularly even if you don’t feel hot.
Respect Wildlife and Rookeries
Give dolphins at least 50 yards and keep off signed bird-nesting areas on Robinson and Bird Islands.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Robinson Island’s leeward sandbar for a calm beaching break
- •Quiet corners of Terry Cove for dolphin-spotting away from traffic
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Robinson and Bird Islands protect nesting shorebirds—stay off posted areas and minimize wakes near seagrass beds to prevent prop scars.
Orange Beach’s modern identity grew from charter fishing and shrimping; Zeke’s Landing has been a sportfishing hub for decades.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Glassier mornings, Fewer crowds
Challenges: Cooler water temps, Variable winds
Spring offers crisp, calm mornings and mild air—ideal for learning the area and stretching into longer loops.
summer
Best for: Warm water, Long daylight
Challenges: Midday chop, Pop-up storms and heat
Summer is prime-time fun; plan earlier or late-afternoon rides to avoid heat and the busiest boat traffic.
fall
Best for: Warm days, cooler nights, Stable weather windows
Challenges: Occasional frontal winds, Shorter daylight
Fall often mirrors spring’s calm with bonus warmth—great for extended explorations along the ICW.
winter
Best for: Empty waterways, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Cold wind chill, Limited operating days
Winter rides can be serene but chilly; check availability, bundle up, and watch for north-wind chop.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Floating Phone Case or Dry PouchEssential
Keeps your phone safe for photos and navigation and prevents a sink-to-the-bottom mishap.
Quick-Dry Rash GuardEssential
Provides sun protection and comfort when spray and breeze combine.
Water Shoes or Sandals with Heel Strap
Helpful for beaching on sandbars and stepping on dock surfaces.
Floating Sunglasses Strap
Saves your shades if a sharp turn or wave clips them.
Common Questions
Do I need a boating license to rent a jet ski here?
No boating license is required for this rental; a thorough dockside safety briefing is provided. Drivers must be 16+ with a valid photo ID; if under 18, a parent/guardian must sign.
What’s included with my rental?
Fuel, life jackets, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water are included—plus a safety orientation and local route guidance.
How early should I arrive, and where do I check in?
Arrive 15 minutes before your reservation at Zeke’s Landing & Marina, 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd. Park in the marina lot and follow signs between the Dock Store and restaurant.
Can we ride with three people on one jet ski?
The jet skis are three-seaters, but the recommended maximum combined weight is 400 lb. Three adults are not permitted; a small child may ride in the middle with two adults.
Where can we ride, and can we go into the Gulf?
Routes vary by conditions and operator guidance. Expect no-wake zones near marinas/bridges and follow boundaries set at check-in; the Gulf may be off-limits on certain days.
What happens if weather turns bad?
Summer storms can pop up quickly. The dock team will advise on safe windows; if unsafe conditions arise, standard policies apply and safety calls take priority.
What to Pack
Photo ID for all drivers—required at check-in; Lightweight sun layer or rash guard—wind and spray amplify sun exposure; Refillable water bottle—stay ahead of dehydration despite the breeze; Waterproof phone case—protects your device while capturing on-water moments.
Did You Know
Robinson and Bird Islands in Orange Beach are designated bird sanctuaries that protect nesting shorebirds like least terns and black skimmers.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning slots for calmer water; Park once at Zeke’s and walk straight to the docks; Ask the dock manager for a route plan based on wind and tide; Post-ride, head to The Gulf or Zeke’s Restaurant for easy dockside eats.
Local Flavor
After you dock, grab blackened gulf fish and hushpuppies at Zeke’s Restaurant overlooking the marina, or cross the pass to The Gulf for tacos and a sunset view. If you’re up for a local classic, the Flora-Bama’s Bushwacker is a rite of passage. For a quieter dinner, Big Fish Restaurant & Bar does fresh, coastal plates without the crowds.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: Pensacola International (PNS, ~45–55 min) and Mobile (MOB, ~1.5 hrs); Local GA: Gulf Shores (JKA, ~15 min). Meeting point: Zeke’s Landing & Marina, 26619 Perdido Beach Blvd. Drive time from central Orange Beach: 5–10 minutes. Cell service: Generally strong near shore; variable farther from the pass. Permits: No boating license needed for this rental; bring a valid photo ID for drivers.
Sustainability Note
Idle through no-wake zones to protect shorelines and wildlife. Keep distance from dolphins and stay off posted bird-nesting areas. Avoid running across visible seagrass to prevent prop scars, and pack out all trash.
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