Jet skiing for beginners: All you need to know! Part 1

The first thing to know is that jet skiing is a fun water-based activity to practice during summer in almost all the bathing spots at the sea. Even if competitions exist, it is for the most part a recreational activity that will provide you with the right amount of adrenaline when riding little waves at different speeds, but also allow you to discover hidden bays and beautiful beaches, which are otherwise difficult to get to.

As you will see, this water sport is at all times a supervised activity. You will always be briefed by a professional instructor, who explains to you how to ride this vehicle and informs you about all the rules you need to respect!

Here’s a little fun fact before diving into this jet ski beginners’ guide: the word “jet ski” is the brand name of a personal watercraft manufactured by Kawasaki and has since become a commonly used word – just like Bubble Wrap, Kleenex, or Frisbee.

How to ride a jet ski?

Riding a jet ski might seem difficult, but when following the guide’s instructions and respecting all the rules, you’ll see just how easy it is! A minimum age is required, and it also depends on the center that provides you with the activity. The same goes for whether a driver’s license is needed for the driver.

To start riding your jet ski there are a few things you’ll need to learn, once you check that you have enough engine oil for your excursion:

1. Turn on/off
2. Learn how to control the forward, neutral, and reverse commands
3. Learn how to regulate brakes in case you have them

Mind that for older jet skis the throttle to steer might be sensitive. The instructor will carefully guide you through all of this.

Mind that the control panel of a jet ski is composed by:

1. A speedometer that shows the speed you are currently driving
2. The engine cut-off switch is a small clip that must be inserted into the boat’s console. The clip will stop the engine if the driver is falling out of the jet ski
3. A safety lanyardis a little rope connected to the engine cut-off switch

Finally, to acquire stability while driving your jet ski you need to know how to lean in different situations. For instance, while accelerating you will need to be inclined forward, leaning back when stopping, and leaning on the sides during turns.

Even with waves, the jetski will go at a stable speed thanks to more responsive steering, if you want to use a specific technique try to ride the waves at 45 degrees diagonally.

Different types of jet skis

There are several types of jet skis. Some of them are focused on performance (usually for people who are experienced and wish to drive fast), and others are easier to control and perfect for a jet ski safari on which you’ll discover beautiful coastlines. Some examples of jet ski types are:

• Sea-Doo: the easiest watercraft to drive (speed from 40 to 70 mph depending on the model)
• Kawasaki: offers a higher speed and performance, some models might also be suitable for beginners (speed from 54 to 67 mph)
• Wave Runner: great control system (speed from 50 to 67 mph)

What to keep in mind when choosing a jet ski for beginners offering better control are the following characteristics: stability, breaks, and recreational watercraft.