They annoy beachgoers by roaring along the coast, endangering swimmers and paddleboarders, and disturbing wildlife.
But jet skis are increasingly popular in France despite concerns about noise, pollution and antisocial behaviour. Local authorities accuse thrill-seeking riders of flouting safety rules and staging high-speed races and “rodeos”.
Growing numbers of seaside resorts are banning jet skis or restricting their use. Two southwestern resorts, Arcachon and Lège-Cap-Ferret, will ban privately owned jet skis this summer. Only hire companies approved by the councils will be allowed to operate them. The authorities hope to reduce the “nuisance factor” by restricting numbers.
Rows and fights between jet ski users and other beachgoers have become common during the holiday season, the regional newspaper, Sud-Ouest reported.
Philippe de Gonneville, the conservative mayor
