Overview of the Jet Ski Project
A company called Cruceros Playa d’en Bossa SL, which also runs the Aquabús ferry service, wants to set up a jet‑ski circuit in the Canaret area of Sant Joan. The plan would run from 2026 to 2029 and would use about 62,500 m² of water roughly 500 metres from the shore. Users would board and leave the jet skis at the existing dock between s’Arenal Gros and s’Arenal Petit, then be shuttled to the circuit by a small support boat.
Why the City Council Said No
The Sant Joan City Council reviewed the proposal at its Local Government Board and asked the regional Directorate of Coasts to reject the licence. Officials argued that the jet‑ski activity would clash with the town’s territorial, environmental, tourist and landscape goals for the northern coast. In other words, the noisy, motorised sport would not fit the quiet, natural vibe that makes Sant Joan special.
PSOE’s Concerns
Environmental Sensitivity
The local Socialist group (PSOE) says the circuit would introduce a busy, loud, profit‑driven nautical activity into a fragile zone. They warn that adding more motorised traffic would increase pressure on an already stressed coastline.
Lack of Proper Studies
According to the PSOE, the project’s paperwork does not include essential research on:
- Noise levels and how they affect wildlife
- Impacts on protected bird species
- Ecological monitoring plans
- Cumulative effects when combined with existing boat tours, anchoring and other summer nautical uses
Without these studies, the socialists argue, there is no proof the jet‑ski circuit can coexist with the area’s natural values.
Protected Area Details
Special Protection Area for Birds (SPA)
The proposed site lies inside the SPA of the north and west marine zone of Ibiza, which is part of the Natura 2000 network. Such designations require extra caution from public authorities because they host important bird populations and sensitive habitats.
What the Socialists Want
If the authorities cannot reject the licence outright, the PSOE asks that:
- No use of the pier, beach, bathing area, accesses or nearby surroundings of Portinatx be allowed as support for the jet‑ski activity.
- Any future approval must guarantee that the circuit will not harm the SPA’s birdlife or add to the existing summer pressure on the coast.
Conclusion
The debate over the jet‑ski circuit highlights a common tension in tourist hotspots: balancing new leisure opportunities with the need to protect pristine environments. The PSOE of Sant Joan argues that the town’s identity—its landscapes, nature and environmental quality—should not be sacrificed for additional motorised water sports. They call for stricter checks, more scientific data, and a clear commitment to keep sensitive coastal zones free from activities that could undermine their ecological value.
For more information, see the original report:
Source
Images Credit: www.diariodeibiza.es