Jet skiers remove plates to evade cameras at Conwy harbour

Reckless jet ski operators are deliberately removing identification plates to avoid detection by CCTV cameras at Conwy harbour, where dangerous speeding incidents with children on board have become an increasing concern for safety officials.

The harbour, one of North Wales’s busiest waterways, has installed surveillance equipment to catch offenders who’ve been tearing through the waters at excessive speeds, often with young passengers clinging on. But some riders aren’t playing by the rules.

Dangerous pattern emerges

Harbour authorities say they’ve documented at least 15 serious incidents over the past six weeks alone. The problems typically occur during weekends and school holidays when visitor numbers peak. Some jet skiers have been clocked travelling at speeds exceeding 30 knots in zones where the limit is just 8 knots – that’s nearly four times the legal speed.

What’s more troubling is the presence of children, some appearing to be as young as seven or eight years old, riding as passengers during these high-speed runs. None were wearing proper safety equipment in several recorded incidents.

And that’s not all. Investigators reviewing CCTV footage have noticed something deliberate: identification plates either missing entirely or covered with tape.

Camera system struggles

The harbour installed its new camera system in April at a cost of £45,000, hoping to crack down on antisocial behaviour on the water. Yet the technology’s proving less effective than anticipated.

„We’re seeing a clear pattern of people intentionally removing or obscuring their registration plates before entering the harbour,” a harbour official said. „It’s frustrating because these are the same individuals who pose the greatest risk to other water users and to themselves.”

Three near-misses with other vessels have been reported since late June. In one incident, a jet ski came within metres of colliding with a small fishing boat carrying a family of four.

Calls for tougher enforcement

Local councillors are now pushing for stricter penalties and increased police presence on the water. The current fine for speeding in the harbour is £200, but that’s only if offenders can be identified.

Some residents have suggested requiring all jet skis to register before launching from Conwy, creating a database that would make it harder for repeat offenders to escape consequences. Others want to see temporary bans for those caught removing identification plates.

Harbour officials say they’re working with North Wales Police’s marine unit to coordinate more regular patrols during peak times. They’re also exploring technology that could track jet skis even without visible plates, though no firm plans have been announced.

The situation remains under review as the busy summer season continues.