‌‌Jet Ski 101: Everything About Jet Skiing - HiseaDock

‌‌Jet Ski 101: Everything You Need to Know About Jet Skiing

What is Jet Skiing?

Jet skiing is a fun water sport that everyone can easily learn. The term jet ski is usually used to refer to any type of personal watercraft (PCW) designed for recreation. You will often see these on holidays at water resorts and beaches.

Though jet skiing is a great way to spend your summer vacations, there are a lot of things you should know about these watercraft, especially if you are a beginner. In this guide, we will walk you through the basics of jet skis including the benefits of riding them, how to buy them, and a few tips for newbie riders. So keep on reading to know more!

Why Should You Take Up Jet Skiing?

Riding a jet ski does not only give you a fun experience but it also has a lot of benefits.

Jet skiing in Maldives
Source: Pinterest

Increases Blood Circulation

Jet skiing improves your cardiovascular system which increases your blood circulation. This allows more nutrients and oxygen to reach all parts of your body. Thus, nourishing all of your muscles and helping in the quicker removal of waste from your body.

Improves Balance & Coordination

Sitting and crouching while riding a jet ski and maneuvering it around the water with the presence of waves improves your balance and coordination. Plus, it improves your posture.

Helps Burn Calories

Jet skiing is a fun way to burn a lot of calories if you don’t want to go to the gym. Aside from having a good time, you can burn up to 200 calories in just 30 minutes.

Strengthens Muscles

When you ride a jet ski, you strengthen your arm and leg muscles because you use them intensely to maneuver your jet ski and maintain a stable position. Jet skiing also helps develop abdominal muscles as you ride your jet ski through the waves.

Relieves Stress

Recreational water sports, such as jet skiing, are great ways of relieving stress and refreshing your mind. Focusing on the waves and listening to the sound of the waters while riding will make you forget all of your worries.

Is Super Fun

You can go jet skiing alone or with your family and friends which makes it more fun to ride through the waves. Riding a high-speed jet ski is also a good way of getting an adrenaline rush on the water.

There are various types of jet skis in the market to suit the different tastes of various riders. Below are the 5 common jet ski categories.

#1 Lite-Recreational

Smallest and lightest jet ski

Most comfortable jet ski to ride

You can easily launch it out of the water

Great on gas because of its lighter frames and smaller engines

Ideal for small rivers and lakes

An example is Sea-Doo’s SPARK

Sea-Doo SPARK Jat Ski
Source: Pinterest
Sea-Doo GTI 215
Source: Pinterest

#2 Recreational

Can do up to 50 mph

Middleman jet ski (medium power and size)

A bit bigger than Lite-Creational jet skis and a bit smaller than Luxury ones

Usually has a horsepower ranging from 110-165

Some models offer starting in neutral mode and come with a break to make loading and docking the jet ski easier

Examples are Sea-Doo’s GTI series and Yamaha’s VX series

#3 Performance

Can reach up to 100mph or more (though the speed cap for jet skis is 70 mph)

Ideal for riders who want speed and like to beat any boat on their way in a race

Sea-Doo offers watercraft that can go from 0 to 50 mph within 3 seconds which is faster than the majority of supercars that are far expensive compared to jet skis

Sea-Doo RXP-X 260
Source: Pinterest
Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230
Source: Pinterest

#4 Sport

Only available in Sea-Doo’s WAKE models

Equipped with a tow Pylon to keep the rope up high which also gives the spotter something to grab onto.

Comes with a wakeboard holder and extra features such as SKI MODE that includes Cruise Control which is normally for Luxury jet skis only

Very practical watercraft that comes with a lot of useful features

#5 Luxury

Majority of these have the same engines as Performance jet skis but are more comfortable

Ideal for riders who love speed but want some style

Usually comes with depth finders, retractable dock lines, and other useful features

Some models, like Sea-Doo’s GTX LIMITED models, come with suspension that you can adjust based on various water conditions

Sea-Doo GTX 230
Source: Pinterest

How Do You Drive a Jet Ski?

Now that you have learned the different types of jet skis, let us now proceed on how to ride a jet ski.

Basic Things You’ll Need for Jet Skiing

Before you go jet skiing for the first time, make sure that you have all the necessary documents and safety equipment.

Wear the right life jacket/Personal Flotation Device (PFD) according to your weight and size

Wear appropriate clothing that will not restrict your movements

Wear eye and feet protection

Check if you’ll need a license for operating a jet ski

Carry documentation materials like vessel registration

Carry a ventilation system and backfire flame arrestor to avoid explosions

Bring a horn or whistle for signaling purposes (e.g. when you’re having difficulties)

Carry a map or a GPS device in case you get lost

Wear a safety lanyard around your wrist.

Two Persons Having Fun Jet Skiing
Source: Pinterest

Styles of Riding Jet Skis

You can ride a jet ski either by sitting down or standing up depending on the type of jet ski you are riding. Aside from the categorizations above, jet skis can be further categorized into either stand-up or sit-down. A stand-up jet ski is smaller, lighter, and designed for tricks and sport riding, making it popular among experienced riders. A sit-down jet ski is larger, more stable, and ideal for cruising or riding with passengers, making it a better choice for beginners or families. Both offer unique experiences depending on your skill level and preferences. Below is a table showing the difference between the two styles.

Stand-Up Kawasaki jet ski
Source: Pinterest
Sit-Down Yamaha Jet Ski
Source: Pinterest

Stand Up Jet Skis

Sit Down Jet Skis

Pros

Cheaper than the majority of sit down jet skis

They have smaller sizes so they are easier to transport and store

Their simple build makes them easier to maintain

They provide better performance than sit down jet skis

Anyone can learn it

Gives you more control

They are comfortable to ride

They are the cheapest jet ski models

They can handle tow sports because of their large size

Available in a wide selection of models

Cons

Since you are forced to stand up, they are much harder to ride

They require a higher learning curve and level of balance

You only have limited options

Not recommended for beginners

Their large size is also a disadvantage because they will require bigger trailers and more space for storage

They cannot do tricks that stand up jet skis can

Familiarizing Yourself With Your Jet Ski’s Controls

Newbie jet ski riders are likely to be injured so it is important that you familiarize yourself first with the jet ski you are riding. Learn your jet ski’s controls because not all jet skis have the same controls though there are some similarities.

Below are the key things you should check when doing this.

The start and stop buttons

Forward, reverse, and neutral controls

The brakes/triggers if your machine has those

The throttle (you only need a little gas for this because it is sensitive)

Lastly, go through the machine’s manual and make sure to learn all of your jet ski’s features.

Jet ski controls
Source: Pinterest

Step by Step Guide to Drive a Jet Ski

1.

Position yourself comfortably on your jet ski.

2.

Place both of your hands on the handlebars and secure your feet in the footrests.

3.

Start your jet ski.

4.

Attach the safety lanyard (also called the “kill switch”) to your wrist. The safety lanyard is attached to the ignition key which will turn off your jet ski’s engine in case you fall off

5.

Check your jet ski’s fuel gauge and make sure no engine lights are on.

6.

If you are a beginner, avoid using the sport mode or the performance keys.

7.

Push the throttle slowly and drive at 5-10 mph. Maintain this speed until you are away from the shoreline. Get used to the sensitivity of your jet ski’s throttle first before getting too far from the shoreline.

8.

Distance yourself from obstacles and increase your speed gradually.

9.

Maintain a steady speed and then lean to the direction you want to turn. If you have any passengers, they should do the same. Make sure to keep your load centered and balanced to prevent your jet ski from turning over.

10.

If you are ready to dock your jet ski, slowly reduce the speed.

11.

As you get close to the dock, turn your engine off and make sure to position your jet ski parallel to the dock.

12.

Secure your jet ski to the dock and remove the safety lanyard to prevent unauthorized use. Below is a video showing how to properly dock a personal watercraft:

How to Reboard on a Jet Ski In Case You Fall Off

Don’t panic if you fall off your jet ski. Just follow the simple video and steps below to reboard on your watercraft.

1.

If your jet ski flipped over, turn it upwards in one direction.

2.

Swim to the back of your vessel (also called the stern). Never reboard from the sides because your jet ski might flip over onto you.

3.

Grab the handles behind the seat and then pull yourself up.

4.

Position yourself back to the seat.

5.

Check your jet ski’s fuel gauge and make sure no engine lights are on.

6.

Reattach the lanyard to yourself.

When you reboard a jet ski, always take it slow and do not rush because you will get tired very quickly which makes reboarding harder.

Here are some easy beginner tricks you can do with your jet ski if you want to spice up your riding experience. Take note though that the tricks you can do will partly depend on whether you are using a sit-down or a stand-up jet ski model. You can use both models to perform certain tricks but some will require a specific model.

#1 Surface 180

In this technique, you will be turning your jet ski around completely. It is a fun trick you can easily do:

1.

Drive your jet ski at a constant medium speed.

2.

Turn the handlebars slightly toward one direction.

3.

Once you’re ready, turn the handlebars quickly toward the opposite direction while fully engaging the throttle.

4.

When you change the direction, make sure that you put your weight onto the side you will be turning to.

#2 Wave/Wake Jumping

You can also try going over a wave. Here is how to do this:

1.

Drive towards the same direction as the wave you want to jump.

2.

Increase your speed and lean back aggressively to take your jet ski upward.

3.

Make sure to be loose when landing. Do not be too stiff because the impact can cause spinal or leg injuries. Bend your knees as if you are jumping down.

#3 Donuts

These are dizzying tricks wherein you will just rotate your jet ski in place. It is a simple trick but you will need to maintain balance to do this properly.

1.

Turn your handlebars toward one direction and lean heavily in that direction.

2.

Put your weight on the opposite foot. Make sure you position your feet properly or you might dip your watercraft into the water.

3.

Stand towards your jet ski’s back or it might go under.

#4 Circles

This is another technique that does not require a wave. To do a circle, you just need to slightly turn your handlebars and lean toward that direction.

1.

Start from a wide circle and do not rush in making it smaller.

2.

Keep going inside the circle until you get comfortable.

3.

Once you get the feel of it, start to turn more sharply.

#5 Carving

In the carving trick, you just need to make sharp turns. This is used in a lot of sports such as snowboarding and skiing to help in maintaining control. In jet ski riding, carving can help you avoid obstacles. Before you do this trick, find a wide, open area to give you enough space for your turns.

1.

Turn the handlebars toward the direction you want to go and lean your body toward that direction too. Do not lean too much because you might fall off and flip your jet ski over.

2.

While turning, loosen your grip from the throttle but do not let it go completely.

3.

Once you have turned on your desired amount, slowly turn the handlebars in the forward position then push the throttle again.

What Factors to Consider When Buying a New Jet Ski?

Do not rush into buying a new jet ski because there are a lot of factors you need to take into account before you fully commit to buying one.

Wallet with credit cards and cash
Source: Pixabay

#1 Budget

Set a budget before making a purchase. There are a lot of jet skis you can choose from to suit any of your budgets starting from $2,000 to more than $15,000. When setting your budget, consider the following costs:

Trailer

Registration

Insurance

Driving license

Additional accessories like life jackets

#2 Size & Functionality

Your choice of a jet ski will also depend on how you will use it. Jet skis are not only for transporting passengers. Some models have enough power to tow inflatable tubes, wakeboarders, or water skiers. So, before purchasing a new jet ski, you need to consider its size and functionality to make sure that it meets your needs.

Moreover, take note that larger jet skis are more stable but are more difficult to maneuver. On the other hand, smaller jet skis that can carry a single rider can turn easily compared to a larger watercraft.

Jet Skiing in Sunset
Source: Pinterest
Jet ski tours
Source: Pinterest

#3 Number of Riders

If you are going to use your jet ski for transporting people, you need to know how many it can carry. Some models can only accommodate one rider while others can carry 2 to 4 people on a single trip.

#4 Specifications

Watercrafts are classified based on the size of their engines. Larger engines have more speed and horsepower. But, their hull designs influence their performance so make sure that you check your jet ski’s specifications too. Take note of the jet ski’s engine type, fuel capacity, water cooling system, horsepower, and others.

Jet ski riding
Source: Pixabay
Certified, warranty, authentic
Source: Pixabay

#5 Warranty

Most new jet skis will come with warranties. A warranty is important so you can take care of unexpected damages to the key components of your watercraft. Sea-Doo jet skis will have a standard warranty of two years but some models will have up to three years. Meanwhile, Kawasaki and Yamaha have been offering a three-year warranty for their watercrafts for several years now.

#6 Storage

Another important factor you need to consider is how you will be storing your jet ski. Where will you keep it? Do you have enough space in your garage to safely store it or will you be placing it outside and just covering it?  Here are some practical tips and methods on how to dock your jet ski:

  1. Select A Suitable Spot
    First of all, consider a particular area or place that is safe. This place could either be a marina, a predefined place for docking purposes, or a jet ski docking center.
  2. Invest In Quality Floating Docks
    Floating docks would be recommended in this case because they save the jet ski hull from being submerged in water thus leading to fewer chances of limpet or rust attacks. Hisea Dock provides customized floating docks which are the best for the jet ski in terms of safety.
  3. Wrapping Your Jet Ski
    Regardless of the method of docking utilized, make sure to always wrap your jet ski to keep it sheltered from being exposed to waves or winds that may cause movement. Make the most of thick ropes and suspend mooring buoys as your protection.
  4. Examine And Service Regularly
    Now and then you need to check your jet ski and the places where you dock it to ensure that everything is in place. Every time you do so remember to rinse your jet ski’s hull and take a look at the mooring gear for any sort of peeling.
  5. Lift Docks
    Lift docks are a much more effective way of docking since the jet ski is elevated out of the water and in this way corrosion of the hull of the jet ski gets minimized significantly. This is because the jet ski is completely dry when put away in the docking area.
Watercraft cover
Source: Pinterest
Coins, currency, insurance
Source: Pixabay

#7 Insurance

If you do not have a PWC or boat license, insurance companies will make you pay higher. Expect premium insurance costs from $900 to $1,200 on a watercraft worth $20,000 to $25,000. You will have cheaper options (around $700 annually) but there will be catches like higher additional charges when making a claim. Some insurance companies will also cover fires and theft cases.

#8 Transportation

You will need a trailer for transporting your jet ski. Some jet skis come with a trailer and you will need to buy a separate one for others. Consider where you will be launching your watercraft when deciding what kind of trailer you will buy.

PWC Trailer
Source: Pixabay
Cog wheels wheel machine
Source: Pixabay

#9 Maintenance

Consider the expenses you will have to maintain your jet ski in a good condition. Aside from fuel, you will need to pay for the following:

Oil Change

You need to change your jet ski’s oil every after 50 hours of using it. PWC service centers charge around $200 and above or you can pay around $175 if you are going to do it yourself.

Spark Plugs

We recommend changing the spark plugs annually. But if you own a jet ski with a two-stroke engine, change them more often. A set of 4 spark plugs costs about $10.

Battery

Change the battery every 3-5 years for around $100.

Maintenance Costs When Your Jet Ski is Not in Use

Give special attention to your jet ski when you are going to store it for more than 2 months before taking it out again or it might not operate the next time you use it. You need to drain and refill your jet ski with gas and fit it with filters to keep its engine in great condition.

#10 Accessories/Modifications

Ask about the accessories or modifications/upgrades that are available for the jet ski you are eyeing for. These can include mirrors, a cup holder, and a reboarding step. For the accessories, some of the most important ones are life jackets, jet ski covers, and GPS units.

Red jet ski
Source: Pixabay

What Factors to Consider When Buying a Used Jet Ski?

If you are on a tight budget and want to buy a used jet ski instead, here are the things you need to consider:

Sea-Doo jet ski
Source: Pinterest

#1 Model

Check out the model of the used jet ski. Old models will usually have 2-stroke engines which is not recommended because you will have a hard time finding parts for them. Plus, they are being phased out because they release more pollutants compared to 4-stroke engines.

#2 Safety

Always consider your safety first when buying a second-hand jet ski. Make sure that the watercraft still has a safety lanyard attached to it. This will turn your jet ski’s engine off to avoid accidents in case you fall off. All of the latest jet ski models should come with safety lanyards.

A Yamaha wave runner lanyard
Source: Pinterest
Jet ski with no rider
Source: Pexels

#3 Condition

Inspect the jet ski if it is still in a good condition. Check for damages before buying it such as rusts and damages to the seat and the hull. The engine should be rust-free, the seat easy to lift, and the bottom of the hull should not be damaged.

#4 Hours Used

Knowing the number of hours a used jet ski was used will give you an idea on how long it has been on the water. The standard is 30 hours per year on average. If the used jet ski was well-maintained, it can go up to 300 hours.

Man in safety vest riding a jet ski
Source: Pexels
Jet ski driving
Source: Pexels

#5 Specifications

It is important to check the specifications of a used jet ski as if you are buying a new one. Check out the speed and horsepower its engine can produce as well as its size. Though wider and longer jet skis have more stability and can carry more passengers, they are harder to maneuver. Short, narrow jet skis are easier to control but newbie riders will have a hard time handling them.

#6 Maintenance Records

Consider the expenses you will have to maintain your jet ski in a good condition. Aside from fuel, you will need to pay for the following:

Replaced Parts

Ask what parts have been replaced but make sure that the engine and hull are still the same.

Availability of Spare Parts

Check the model of the jet ski to know how easy you can get spare parts and the costs that come with it.

Where the Jet Ski Was Maintained

Ask for maintenance receipts. If the owner did the maintenance, make sure that they are qualified to repair personal watercrafts.

Wrench & other repair kits
Source: Pixabay
Jet ski on a beach
Source: Pinterest

#7 Warranty & Insurance

Check if the used jet ski is still under warranty. Also, get insurance first before taking it out for riding. The cost of a jet ski’s insurance will depend on its model, make, and engine size and can reach up to around $100 per year.

#8 Test Drive

Do not forget to water test a used jet ski before buying it. Make sure that it takes off smoothly. Check its engine’s power (RPMs) too. You would want something more than 7,000 RPM at full throttle though this may vary depending on the jet ski.

Test driving a jet ski
Source: Pinterest

New vs. Used Jet Ski: Which is the Better Option?

Should you buy a new or used jet ski? Below is a table showing the pros and cons of each to help you choose your ideal watercraft.

New Jet Ski

Used Jet Ski

Pros

You don’t need to worry about any damage caused by previous owners

The latest models feature new improvements from technology to performance

A lot of new jet skis come with warranties

More affordable than new jet skis

You can buy multiple used jet skis to learn maintenance and become a better rider before you invest in a new jet ski

They allow you to adjust yourself from the costs associated with buying a new jet ski

Cons

More expensive than used jet skis

You need to carefully inspect them for maintenance needs

What Are Some Famous Jet Ski Models?

Below are the famous jet ski models that are ideal for beginners. We will start our list from the top ones.

#1 Yamaha’s VX

Yamaha’s VX is the most affordable and popular jet ski for more than a decade in the market. Its amazing engine is perfect for cruising, towing, and acceleration. If you want both performance and power, then Yamaha’s VX would be your best option.

Man Riding a Yamaha VX jet ski
Source: Pinterest

Pros

Cons

-Has bigger gas tanks compared to the other models
-Comes with a reboarding step which you can tuck away if you’re not using it
-Lighter deck and hull
-Has a glove box with cup holders
-Has a no-wake and low speed mode for security as well as a cruise assist feature
-Available cruiser seat

Cons

-Has less storage than Sea-Doo’s SPARK
-Has less horsepower
-Its open loop water cooling system is an issue because it is taking in seawater or lake water when cooling the engine

Pros

Cons

-Has bigger gas tanks compared to the other models
-Comes with a reboarding step which you can tuck away if you’re not using it
-Lighter deck and hull
-Has a glove box with cup holders
-Has a no-wake and low speed mode for security as well as a cruise assist feature
-Available cruiser seat
-Has less storage than Sea-Doo’s SPARK
-Has less horsepower
-Its open loop water cooling system is an issue because it is taking in seawater or lake water when cooling the engine
Driving a Yamaha EX Deluxe jet ski
Source: Pinterest

#2 YAMAHA EX

 

As a trusted brand, Yamaha is famous among a lot of riders so if you are a newbie jet ski rider and would like to buy from them, then you should opt for Yamaha EX. Any beginner can afford this jet ski model. It gives you the same aesthetics as that of Yamaha’s WaveRunner at a much cheaper price.

Pros

Cons

-Has higher horsepower compared to Sea-Doo’s SPARK and bigger gas tanks compared to Sea-Doo’s other personal watercrafts
-It is worth your money
-It is small and lightweight so it is easy to maneuver
-The storage under its seat can hold other accessories aside from life jackets
-It has great fuel efficiency with a fuel tank that is 70% bigger compared to its competitors

-It is heavy just like the majority of wave runners
-It does not have dual mirrors and a reboarding step
-Does not come with a RiDE system to help in easier traversing. Instead, it has a lever which you can also use as brakes.
-Its storage is separated in three small areas which poses a problem in the long run
 

Pros

Cons

-Has higher horsepower compared to Sea-Doo’s SPARK and bigger gas tanks compared to Sea-Doo’s other personal watercrafts
-It is worth your money
-It is small and lightweight so it is easy to maneuver
-The storage under its seat can hold other accessories aside from life jackets
-It has great fuel efficiency with a fuel tank that is 70% bigger compared to its competitors

Cons

-It is heavy just like the majority of wave runners
-It does not have dual mirrors and a reboarding step
-Does not come with a RiDE system to help in easier traversing. Instead, it has a lever which you can also use as brakes.
-Its storage is separated in three small areas which poses a problem in the long run
 

#3 Sea-Doo’s GTI 90/130

Do you want reliability and comfort? Then Sea-Doo’s GTI series will surely appeal to you. They are great on gas and have 15.9-gallon fuel tanks. Their fuel efficiency will make your ride enjoyable for the entire day.

Driving a Sea-Doo GTI jet ski
Source: Pinterest

Pros

Cons

-Great storage spaces

-Equipped with Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) technology

-Have closed loop water cooling systems

-Offer various driving modes like ECO, Touring, and Sport

-They come with a learning key

-Some models have a VTS system to make performing tricks easier

-They have a Digitally Encoded Security System (DESS) key (a safety lanyard and security device) that only starts the machine 

-Some models in the series have touring seats

-They have the smallest gas tanks compared to other models of Recreation jet skis by their competitors
-Some models are heavier and do not have reboarding ladders
-They do not have cup holders

Pros

Cons

-Great storage spaces -Equipped with Intelligent Brake and Reverse (iBR) technology
-Have closed loop water cooling systems
-Offer various driving modes like ECO, Touring, and Sport
-They come with a learning key
-Some models have a VTS system to make performing tricks easier
-They have a Digitally Encoded Security System (DESS) key (a safety lanyard and security device) that only starts the machine
-Some models in the series have touring seats

Cons

-They have the smallest gas tanks compared to other models of Recreation jet skis by their competitors
-Some models are heavier and do not have reboarding ladders
-They do not have cup holders
Sea Jet Skiing
Source: Pinterest

#4 SEA-DOO SPARK

Sea-Doo’s SPARK is equipped with iBR technology that comes with reverse, neutral, forward, and break operations to make riding more convenient for beginners. Its price, power, and weight are half of that of any powerful, mid-range jet ski. It delivers its riders what every PWC should – accessible and fun entertainment.

Pros

Cons

-It is lightweight that you can even lift it up using only one of your hands
-iBR technology makes it easier to maneuver
-Some models come with learning keys to limit the jet ski’s power for newbie riders and help them learn little by little
-Though it is small, it comes with a storage space that can hold life jackets
-It does not include mirrors but you can upgrade your jet ski to get them
-Small gas tanks
-It has lower horsepower compared to other models in the lite-recreation jet ski category

Pros

Cons

-It is lightweight that you can even lift it up using only one of your hands
-iBR technology makes it easier to maneuver
-Some models come with learning keys to limit the jet ski’s power for newbie riders and help them learn little by little
-Though it is small, it comes with a storage space that can hold life jackets

Cons

-It does not include mirrors but you can upgrade your jet ski to get them
-Small gas tanks
-It has lower horsepower compared to other models in the lite-recreation jet ski category

#5 Kawasaki’s Jet Ski STX -15F

This jet ski model of Kawasaki is an awesome combination of handling and power. It is perfect for riders who want their jet ski adventures to be speedy and wild. You can reach up to 60 mph right after you push the throttle. First-time riders may be overwhelmed with STX-15F but others enjoy the thrills this model gives them. This is recommended for pros.

Man Driving a Kawasaki Jet Ski STX -15F
Source: Pinterest

Pros

Cons

-Fastest model in the recreation jet ski category
-Has a reliable design
-Comes with a magnetic key to prevent theft
-Its design is dateable
-It has a manual reverse, neutral, and forward operation
-It has an open loop water cooling system

Pros

Cons

-Fastest model in the recreation jet ski category
-Has a reliable design
-Comes with a magnetic key to prevent theft

Cons

-Its design is dateable
-It has a manual reverse, neutral, and forward operation
-It has an open loop water cooling system

Jet Ski Tips For Beginners

To end this guide, below are the tips newbie jet ski riders should consider.

#1 Research on Your Local Rules & Regulations

Different states have different rules and regulations for riding watercrafts. Some states will require a license before you can drive a jet ski. They might also only allow specific riding speeds and limit the places where you can go riding. Make sure to do your research first before doing anything else.

Hammer and law books
Source: Pixabay
Jet ski/waverunner driving
Source: Pinterest

#2 Take a Boating Safety Course

We recommend that you take a boating safety course whether your state requires a license or not. These courses will guide you through operating your jet ski to ensure safety as well as familiarize you with the rules and regulations in your state.

#3 Be Attentive to Your Surroundings

Driving a jet ski is similar to motorcycle riding. Accidents can always happen so you should always pay attention to your surroundings. This includes checking the weather forecast before going out on a ride.

It is not advisable to ride on rainy and windy days because you will have a hard time maneuvering your jet ski due to the strong waves. Bright sunny days are ideal for riding a jet ski because the waters are calm during these times.

Jat Skiing on a Bright Sunny Day
Source: Pinterest
Drinking beer on the beach
Source: Pinterest

#4 Don’t Drink While Operating a Jet Ski

Just like driving any motorized vehicle, drinking while driving a jet ski may result in unexpected accidents. Plus, driving a jet ski while in the state of intoxication is illegal. Never drink when you drive.

#5 Keep Your Jet Ski Straight

Do not stare at the handlebars or the water in front of your jet ski’s bow because you will have a hard time keeping your jet ski straight. Instead, lift up your head and fix your gaze off into the distance. If you are still struggling, just focus on a stationary object on the water or land.

Drone following jet ski
Source: Pinterest
No Wake Zone Sign
Source: Pinterest

#6 Look Out For No-Wake Zones

No-wake zones require operational speeds below 6 mph (typically) so only idle in these areas. These are normally found around beaches, cove entrances, or near the shoreline and boats. The purpose of no-wake zones is to prevent strong waves at the loading and unloading ramps and to avoid damages.

#7 Take Care of Your Jet Ski

Take care of your jet ski if you want it to last for a long time. Simple maintenance such as cleaning your jet ski’s exterior and disposing old fuel can keep your watercraft running for years. Make sure to constantly check for damaged parts.

Yellow jet ski on a beach
Source: Pinterest
Complete PWC anchor kit
Source: Pinterest

#8 Buy The Right Accessories

Do not only focus on buying an awesome jet ski. Make your riding experience safer by buying accessories such as a first aid kit, anchor, skier-down flag, fire extinguishers, and others. You can also buy accessories like a cooler, a reboarding step, a sound system, an action camera among others to improve your riding experience.

#9 Regularly Check Fuel

Make sure to regularly check your jet ski’s fuel before going on a trip on the waters. Check if your engine has enough or else you will get stranded.

Riding a stand up Kawasaki jet ski
Source: Pinterest
Floating dock for jet ski
Source: Pinterest

#10 Install a Custom Docking Solution

You may consider building a custom jet ski docking system to make your rides simpler. Owning a personal dock allows you to go out on a ride anytime you want to.

FAQ

A jet ski, also known as a personal watercraft (PWC), is powered by a jet propulsion system. It works by pulling water into the motor, pressurizing it, and forcing it out through a nozzle to propel the craft forward. Riders use handlebars to steer, with throttle control for speed. Modern jet ski motors are highly efficient and capable of reaching impressive speeds.
Yes, jet skiing is incredibly fun and suitable for people of all skill levels. A jet ski tutorial or lesson can help beginners get started. Jet skis are easy to drive once you understand the controls and basic handling techniques. That said, steering requires some throttle, so it’s important to practice in calm waters before advancing to faster speeds or tricks.
The average speed of a jet ski is around 50-55 mph, but high-performance models can exceed 70 mph. The fastest jet skis on the market are designed for speed enthusiasts, reaching over 80 mph.
The age requirement varies by location, but typically, you must be at least 16 years old to drive a jet ski alone. In some areas, younger riders may operate under adult supervision or with a boating safety certificate. Always check local laws before heading out.
When buying a jet ski, consider factors like size, weight, engine power, and whether you want a stand-up or sit-down jet ski. Check for features like storage compartments, fuel efficiency, and passenger capacity. Don’t forget to inspect the number of hours on a used jet ski—a lot of hours on a jet ski can indicate heavy wear and tear.
The cost of a jet ski can vary widely depending on the brand, model, features, and whether it’s new or used. Here’s a general breakdown:
  • Entry-Level Models: These are basic jet skis designed for beginners and casual riders. Prices typically range from $5,000 to $8,000.
  • Recreational Models: These are mid-range jet skis with more power, better features, and a smoother ride. Expect to pay between $8,000 and $12,000.
  • Performance Models: High-speed jet skis with advanced technology and superior handling can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $18,000.
  • Luxury Models: These jet skis are equipped with premium features like Bluetooth speakers, GPS, and enhanced comfort. Prices can go up to $20,000 or more.
  • Used Jet Skis: A used jet ski can be a more affordable option, with prices ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, depending on its condition, model, and age.
If one loves water sports, investing in jet skis could be rewarding while being fun and useful on different levels. They come with a range of great experiences. However, be mindful of maintenance fees, fuel, and storage costs. In case, owning a jet ski is a dilemma, the shorter rental option is worth exploring.

Conclusion

When you are determined to take up jet skiing, make sure that you familiarize yourself with the various elements associated with this type of sport. Always prioritize your safety first before having fun so you should learn as much as you can before fully immersing yourself into jet skiing.

Hopefully, this guide was able to cover all of the things you want to know about jet skis and jet skiing. Have fun on your jet ski adventures!

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