Steering, Stability and Stopping

Most personal watercraft have a steerable nozzle at the stern, through which water is forced, propelling the boat. The nozzle is at the aft end of the pump housing and the direction it "points" controls the direction of the exiting water. The direction in which the nozzle is aimed is controlled by a handlebar or steering wheel.

When the steering control is turned either left or right, the nozzle turns in the same direction. Physics then takes over. With the throttle open, the force of the water stream pushes the back of the boat in the opposite direction. For example, if you want to turn right, you turn the control to the right. That causes the nozzle to turn right. The water forced out of the nozzle pushes the stern of your boat to the left.

Remember: for steering control, you must maintain power to the pump. If you allow the engine to return to idle or shut off during a turn, the craft will continue in the same direction it was moving when power was reduced or lost, regardless of any movement of the steering control. If you back off the throttle, your steering capability lessens. Give yourself plenty of room. Do not head straight at objects but come along side them. Be sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times. Only friction between the boat and the water - or a collision - will stop the movement.

It's important to remember that the act of steering involves more than turning the handlebars. It also includes maintaining enough power to make sure there is turning thrust coming from the pump. A personal watercraft will not turn as effectively if you reduce power to the craft. As a PWC operator you must insure that you are a sufficient distance from obstacles and traveling at a speed that allows you to maneuver safely at all times. Practice making turns, as if steering clear of a collision, in an area where it is safe to do so. Refer to the owner's manual for your particular model for more specific operating instructions.

Stopping a PWC can be done by backing off the throttle and turning off the engine like any other boat. But nearly all PWCs require a safety lanyard. The lanyard is attached to the operator and the ignition switch. When the lanyard is disconnected or when the operator falls off, the PWC will come to a stop. Some PWCs have a throttle spring device which means the operator must consistently apply pressure. When that pressure is absent, the PWC stops or circles at idle speed.

Many newer PWC models have off-throttle steering capabilities. Some models provide enough thrust for steering when the throttle is reduced while others drop rudders into the water if the jet has been idle for a specific length of time. Check your owner's manual to see whether your PWC has these capabilities.

Nearly all other boats steer by turning the engine's lower unit (with the propeller) or the rudder in the direction that the operator wants to go. Because these vessels are powered by a propeller or have a rudder there is some turning capability at slower speeds - as long as the boat's engine is in gear (not in neutral).

For all boats, maintaining stability is required to enjoy boating safely. Remember when you are operating any small boat keep low so there is a lower center of gravity. That will help stability. Do not stand up in a boat. The higher center of gravity can destabilize the boat and either you or your passengers could fall overboard. Also, avoid making sudden movements. A sudden shift in weight can also destabilize a boat. Make sure all gear is stored low and in the center of a small boat with an even weight on each side.

Boats generally don't come with brakes. While some boats have reverse propulsion capabilities they often can not be engaged quick enough to stop a collision. It's important for all boaters to give themselves enough room to stop. Getting to a dock quickly is not as vital as getting there safely. Be sure to give yourself enough room to back off the throttle and stop.