AN INTRODUCTION TO PWC’s

Maintenance Costs

Compared to conventional boats, PWCs require minimal maintenance; an annual oil change and possibly off-season storage prep is about it for most owners. You’ll want a quality tight-fitting cover if your PWC will be stored outside. PWCs are self-draining so do not require an extensive off-season storage procedure, garaging is always a better option for security and protection from the elements. As with any boat, the key operation cost for any PWC is going to be fuel, and that cost will be influenced by how you use the craft and its size and power. A more-powerful PWC will naturally use more fuel, and if you enjoy hard acceleration and faster speed or usually ride with three aboard, you’ll also use more fuel. Some PWC now have an “eco” mode that electronically reduces performance and can dramatically improve fuel economy. In general, though, fuel costs will be much less than for larger boats. Other operational costs include annual registration, insurance and trailer registration and off-season storage if you can’t or don’t care to store the craft at home. Owners who live on or near the water might consider investing in a PWC lift or docking ramp that stores the boat out of the water but also makes it easy to launch when it’s time to ride. Many marinas now have boat storage in the form of Boat stacks, where with one phone call you can have your boat lifted and placed on the water ready to go. Personal Watercraft Technology/Materials/Features Personal watercraft are offered in two basic styles: sit-down and stand-up models. Sit-down models have a seat for one to three passengers. Stand-up models have no seat and represent the origins of the sport, which was really kick-started in the 1970s. Those original stand-up models required a lot of athletic ability to ride well, but today’s stand-up models are wider and longer and much easier to ride. It’s still more challenging than a sit-down PWC, and for some riders much more entertaining just because it’s a bit of a challenge. Some models, powered with a 1498 cc engine producing over 950 lbs of thrust and a weight of just 550 lbs, the acceleration is impressive. Sit-down models range from “rec-lite” models with seating for two, a 90-horsepower engine and a top speed of over 70 kph (45 mph) to the other extreme of a three-passenger luxury model with over 300 horsepower and a top speed of over 100kph (70 mph). The most-deluxe models may feature deep-bolstered touring seats, GPS-based navigation, an audio system and electronic cruise controls that make it easier to tow tubers and skiers. Some models come equipped specifically for tow sports, with a towing pylon and accommodations for a rear-facing “observer” passenger. Others are rigged for anglers, with rod holders and a fishfinder. All current personal watercraft engines are smooth-and-quiet four-stroke motors, which drive a jet pump that propels the craft with a high-pressure jet of water instead of the propeller. Because the jet outlet is above the bottom of the hull, a PWC may draw just inches of water at speed, so it’s able to zip over shallows and is easy to beach. The absence of a prop also makes PWCs safer for tow sports. The most powerful, high-performance PWC models are capable of lightning- quick acceleration and top speeds exceeding 100 kph (70 mph) – a performance that demands respect from the rider and requires awareness on the water. These models may not be a good choice for beginners or younger riders, in saying that, many units have a “learning mode” that dials back the performance. The best personal watercraft is one that fits the way you want to ride—short, quick blasts around the lake, towing tubers all afternoon, fishing and exploring or long-distance touring. There’s a PWC model equipped for any activity.