Jet ski riding is among the most popular water sports that can give you a fun experience if you are looking for adventure. If you are a first-time rider, jet skis can be quite intimidating, but once you get the basics, you are good to go. 

If you are planning to ride a jet ski on your summer vacation and are looking for some useful tips, you have come to the right place! In this article, we have compiled some of the important tips you need to know before you go on your first jet ski ride:

#1 Take a Boater’s Safety Course

We highly recommend that you take a boater’s safety course. Although not all states require it, riders under a specific age are required to take the course in some states. Honestly, everyone should take the course, especially for first-time riders to ensure that they are well equipped with the basics. You can find a lot of free boater’s safety courses online.

#2 Things to Wear & Bring

It is very important that you wear and bring the right gear and accessories before going on a jet ski ride. Below are some of the most important ones:

● Life Jacket

● Water Shoes

● Wetsuit Shorts

● Gloves

● Sunglasses

● Sunscreen

● Dry Bag

You can also read more on beginner’s riding protection tips here.

#3 Understanding Your Jet Ski’s Controls

When riding a jet ski, familiarize yourself with its controls. Different jet ski brands and models will have different controls. Know where the jet ski’s throttle is, including its emergency shut off. Make sure to connect your jet ski’s safety lanyard to yourself to automatically turn it off once you fall off. Know where the braking system of your jet ski is located too.

#4 Getting Started

For first time riders, we recommend choosing a sit-down jet ski model. Here are the tips when starting your jet ski:

● Sit comfortably and position your hands on your jet ski’s handlebars. 

● Start the jet ski and slowly push the throttle.

● Cruise from 5 to 10 MPH while moving away from the shoreline.

● Remain close to the shoreline until you become comfortable with your jet ski throttle’s sensitivity.

#5 Cornering/Turning

Once you become comfortable riding your jet ski, you can gradually increase your speed. Make sure to remain within the speed range you are comfortable with. Turn your jet ski by leaning towards the direction you want to turn to.

Take note that jet skis do not have rudders so you have to accelerate a little bit on most jet skis to turn. Although modern models allow you to turn without accelerating, most models do not allow this.

#6 Be Observant

Just like when riding a motorcycle, you should be mindful of your surroundings when riding a jet ski, especially if there are other riders out there aside from you. Even if you are riding in an uncrowded area, accidents cannot still be avoided.

#7 Keep Your Jet Ski Straight

Most beginner jet ski riders are having a hard time keeping their jet skis straight. This is because most of them usually stare at the water in front of the jet ski or at the jet ski’s handlebars. We recommend that you look straight ahead so you can also drive straight. This makes your trip more enjoyable. If you are still struggling, just look at a stationary object and steer towards it.

#8 Reboarding Your Jet Ski

In case you fall off your jet ski, never panic. Here is how to properly reboard your jet ski:

● Always reboard from your jet ski’s back (stern).

● Reach the handle at the back of the seat.

● Pull yourself up onto your jet ski’s back deck.

● If you are not alone, you should board on the jet ski one at a time.

● Do not rush and reboard from your jet ski’s side because it will flip.

● If you failed to reboard several times, take time to relax first before slowly climbing back on your jet ski.

#9 Docking Your Jet Ski

There should always be a jet ski floating dock station where you are riding. A docking station makes it easier for you to dock your jet ski. The trick when docking is to remain at a low speed. If your jet ski has a brake or a reverse control, just pull the trigger to slow it down. Moving slowly prevents you from smashing your jet ski into the dock. Docking can be hard for beginners but it becomes easier with practice.

Conclusion

Riding a jet ski is fun, but you need to make sure that you know the basics first before you go riding to avoid accidents. Be mindful of your surroundings and most importantly, you should know your limits. Do not push the boundaries just because you became comfortable riding your jet ski. Your safety should always be your top priority, especially now that you will be just starting with jet ski riding.