How To Ride A Jet Ski

There might not be much more fun to be had on a personal watercraft than to know how to ride a jet ski. And, learning how to ride a jet ski responsibly is key to making the experience safe and enjoyable for all involved.

1. Before you ride a jet ski, you must put on a personal flotation device. Flotation devices have come a long way from those horrible, bulky orange vests of years ago. Not only are flotation devices smaller and more comfortable, but they work better too. Make sure to always have one on when you climb aboard that jet ski.
2. Climb aboard and sit down on the jet ski. Although there are many different types of jet ski configurations, the most common is a seat. There are, however, jet skis that allow for knee riding or even standing. The seated variety, though, will allow for more than one rider.
3. Place the safety key onto the safety switch. All jet skis have a safety key so if the rider falls off, the ski will immediately stop. If you lose your safety key, go to a dealership and purchase another one. Although you can use a different device to hold the safety switch open, it is never advisable to jerryrig this safety switch.
4. Press the start button.  If you don't have a fuel injected jet ski, you'll have to start the ski and allow it to warm up before starting your jet ski ride.
5. Apply pressure to the throttle to start your jet ski ride. Depending on how powerful your jet ski is, you might be riding a rocket so start off slow until you get a feel for what the machine can do. Enjoy your jet ski ride!