Nuisance jet skis in Cornwall: who to call and when

You are in the water at your local beach when a jet ski cuts across the swimming zone, engine screaming, passing a family by a few feet. Or you watch one circle a seal until it dives and stays under. In both cases there is someone you can call. The number just depends on what you are looking at.

NCI St Ives has shared guidance on how to report nuisance Personal Watercraft in Cornwall, and who deals with what. The short version is that jet ski problems get split between Devon & Cornwall Police and the relevant local Harbour Authority, and the route you take depends on whether you are watching a crime, a nuisance, or something that is putting lives at risk right now.

When it’s an emergency

If the way a jet ski is being ridden is reckless or puts lives at immediate risk, treat it as an emergency. Call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.

Everything below is for non-emergencies and ongoing anti-social behaviour.

Reckless, dangerous or intimidating use

If riders are endangering swimmers or other water users, that is a matter for the police. You can report it online through the Devon & Cornwall Police crime reporting form, or by calling 101.

General nuisance and speeding

If a jet ski is operating where it should not be, such as a designated swimming zone, or breaking local harbour speed limits, contact the local harbourmaster directly.

For general environmental and maritime complaints, you can also notify Cornwall Council’s Maritime Office by emailing [email protected].

Wildlife disturbance

Jet skis that are actively harassing, chasing or disturbing dolphins, seals and other marine life are committing a wildlife crime.

Dial 101 to report it to the police. In Cornwall, there is also a dedicated wildlife disturbance hotline on 0345 201 26 26.

📷Stock Photo