Jet skis operating close to the shore on Málaga's beaches pose a danger to swimmers and can result in significant financial penalties. This summer, around twenty fines have already been issued in a single day for the improper use of these nautical vessels.
State regulations, published in the Official State Gazette (BOE), and Málaga's municipal ordinances strictly govern their operation. The obligation to respect authorized navigation zones and to use an approved life jacket is established.
The most notable prohibition is navigation within the 200-meter strip along the coast, except for beaching the vessel or heading out to sea. These maneuvers must be performed perpendicularly to the coast, at reduced speed, and with extreme caution. Other prohibitions include navigating within marked swimming areas, approaching within 50 meters of other jet skis, floating devices, ships, or boats, and operating within port limits, except in marinas.
The most common infractions in Málaga are related to proximity to the coast, entering swimming zones, or using the jet ski without the mandatory life jacket.
The sanctioning regime of the Law on State Ports and Merchant Marine includes fines that vary according to severity. Minor infractions can incur up to 60,000 euros, serious ones up to 180,000 euros (maritime safety) or 120,000 euros (maritime traffic). In the most serious cases, fines can rise to 901,000 euros for maritime safety matters, depending on the specific facts, the risk generated, and the circumstances of the infraction.
