Cyprus to raise unlicensed jet ski operation fine to €1,500

Nicosia, Cyprus. The fine for operating a jet ski or similar vessel without the required licence will rise from €85.43 to €1,500 under new recreational navigation legislation that has been passed but has not yet entered into force.

The changes follow a jet ski collision off Protaras on Saturday that left a 48-year-old man critically injured and his seven-year-old daughter seriously injured.

New penalties and enforcement powers

A competent official told the Cyprus News Agency on Monday that the higher fine is included in the new recreational navigation law, which was passed earlier this year.

The deputy shipping ministry will also be able to impose administrative fines, while police will receive broader powers to issue penalties.

The current fixed penalty for operating a vessel without the required licence is €85.43. Under the new framework, it will increase to €1,500, while administrative fines imposed by the ministry may be higher, the official said.

Protaras collision

The legislative changes come after Saturday’s collision off Protaras, involving a jet ski operated by a 17-year-old and a towed inflatable carrying five people.

A 48-year-old man was critically injured. His seven-year-old daughter suffered a skull fracture and was seriously injured.

Rental conditions remain in place

The new law does not prohibit unlicensed adults from renting jet skis.

Since 2020, adults aged 18 and over have been permitted to rent and operate certain high-speed rental vessels without an operator’s licence, provided they meet specific conditions.

“The important thing is for professionals to implement the provisions of the legislation and ensure that those renting the vessels also comply with them,” the official said.