Cottage season is well underway in Canada, which means it’s also time for water sports and riding your personal watercraft. Just like motorcycles and ATVs, there is a learning curve and certain safety precautions and tips you’ll want to know before heading out on the water, especially if you’re a beginner. Read on to learn more about these topics on Jet-Skis:

Choosing the Right PWC/Equipment

Tips for Safe Riding

Turns and Wakes

Choosing the Right PWC/Equipment

The first thing to consider when choosing a PWC is:

• What will you be using it for?
• What kind of rider are you?

Are you using it recreationally at a cottage? Are you looking to do tricks down the road? Using it to tow? Will you be riding on a lake vs. a river? Will you be riding alone or with a passenger?

Answering these questions for yourself beforehand will put you in a better position once you begin your search. Speaking with people you know who already own a PWC or people at the dealership will also help you make an informed decision. It’s also a good idea to rent a couple of different PWC’s to test out! That way, you can get a feel for them and be sure you’re making the right choice for yourself.

Equipment-wise there are a few things you’re going to need: 

1. PFD: A proper life jacket should always be worn out on the water (whether you’re on a PWC or simply just a kayak/canoe).
2. Trailer: If you’re going to be bringing your PWC back and forth from the cottage or even travelling with it - you’re going to need a trailer (there are single or double trailers available).

Tips for Safe Riding

1. Don’t drink and drive: this should be obvious, but it’s a critical reminder. It’s ok to unwind and enjoy your vacation time but always keep the drinking and Power-sports separate. 
2. Wear a life jacket: it will help keep you safe in unforeseen events or accidents. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
3. Passing another jet-ski: always make sure to leave ample distance between you and the other vessel. This will reduce the chance of crashing and increase visibility. 
4. Taking off: Make sure to start slowly and increase your speed as you take off on your jet-ski. Practicing closer to shore is also a good idea until you feel comfortable going out in deeper water. 

Turns and Wakes

When you’re just starting on a jet-ski, things like turns and wakes may seem a bit intimidating. But, just like taking off, it’s ok to start slow and practice closer to shore until you feel comfortable enough. 

For turns, always make sure you’re leaning in the direction you wish to go; and that your passengers are doing the same. Sometimes, you have to increase your speed slightly due to a lack of a rudder when making a turn.

Wakes can be fun to ride once you’re experienced enough to do so. Just remember to take it slow when approaching the wave. If you head into it too quickly, then your jet-ski can go through it instead of over it.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Hopefully, it provided you with helpful tips to get you started off on your Jet-Ski adventures. If you have any more questions, please leave your: name, email, and comment in the fields below. We’d love to hear your feedback.