Personal Watercraft Basics

Operation of a personal watercraft does not require the vocabulary of an "old salt". Knowledge of some nautical terms will facilitate your learning the basics about your boat and help you to understand the information in this manual. More boating terms and explanations can be found in the glossary at the back of this manual and in your owner’s manual.

It's vital for a PWC operator to possess a social and environmental awareness. PWCs are regulated by the same laws as other boats. There are additional rules that specifically cover PWCs. It is the PWC operator's responsibility to know and follow these regulations. Understand what other boaters and people on the shore are expecting. The PWC operator is rarely the only one around. Put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if someone passed by close and at a high speed? It would be pretty jarring. Reckless or inconsiderate use of PWCs has caused considerable ill will. Ride smart, ride safe and ride with respect. Know the PWC's capabilities and limitations as well as your own. Often boaters develop a "false sense of mastery" causing their awareness to lapse. A boater must always be prepared for change. Constantly keep a look out for other boaters and obstacles. The relationship of your operating speed and distance is a key factor in your safety and the safety of others. Always operate your PWC at a safe speed and safe distance at all times. Keep a 360-degree perspective. Don't just focus on what's in front of you.