TikToker fined after filming jet ski ride at Nha Trang beach, where it’s been banned for a decade

Khanh Hoa provincial waterway traffic police fined the man, 33, from Dak Lak Province VND5 million (US$190) on March 29 for operating an unregistered watercraft without the required license, the police unit said.

The man told police he brought the jet ski, which he had recently purchased for VND400 million ($15,200), to a public beach opposite the Thanh Nien football field area in Nha Trang Ward at around 11 p.m. on March 27. He said he saw no signs prohibiting jet skis and that the beach was deserted, so he rode four laps to test the engine before bringing it ashore.

He posted a 54-second clip of the ride to his TikTok account, “Bap Kimochi,” where it drew more than 500,000 views before he took it down and posted an apology, Your Three reported.

Dam Hai Van, Director of the Nha Trang Bay Management Board, said jet skis and parasailing have been banned at all public beaches in Nha Trang for over 10 years. The activities are only permitted in designated waters at licensed tourist areas and islands, far from public swimming zones, he said.

The man admitted during questioning that the jet ski was unregistered and that he lacked the professional certification required to operate it. “I have recognized that my actions violated inland waterway traffic law,” he told police.

Nha Trang, one of Vietnam’s most popular coastal tourist destinations, has seen a string of drowning incidents at its beaches in recent days. Authorities have urged visitors to follow safety warnings, particularly during rough weather.

Under Vietnamese regulations, recreational jet ski operations require a business license, and the watercraft must carry safety inspection certificates and registration.

Operators must hold professional certifications and stay within state-designated zones. Jet skis are prohibited in restricted areas, marine conservation zones, and swimming areas.