Are you considering buying a jet ski as your first boat or adding one to your existing fleet? Whether you’re a newcomer to the incredible boating lifestyle or you’re a seasoned veteran, there are some key differences between jet skis and other types of boats. But with these tips, you’ll be off of the dock and having fun on the water in no time. There are several basic categories of jet skis. Stand-ups provide a single rider with freedom and maneuverability, while two and three seaters allow for more comfortable cruising.
Just the sheer act of riding a personal watercraft is an activity in and of itself. With their “personal” size, advantageous power-to-weight ratio, and exceptional handling, these machines offer an experience like no other boat on the water. Personal watercraft, however, aren’t just toys but have grown increasingly versatile, with individual models now geared toward touring/cruising, tow sports, and high-performance. Those looking for the ultimate performance challenge can check out a thriving race scene. Group outings, poker runs, and long-distance excursions are also popular activities. The three biggest manufactures of jet skis are Kawasaki, Sea-Doo, and Yamaha.
The term jet ski is often used to refer to personal watercrafts (PWC) and there are many great options available for everyone’s needs or tastes. Many people across the world love jet skiing as it is an adventure sport that thrills them. This entails a combination of speed, nimbleness, and the pleasure of navigating through wide waters which makes it attractive to daredevil-like individuals as well as families. The subsequent sections will analyze some of common types of jet skis in order to aid you in selecting one that can serve you effectively during such quests.
Eight types of jet ski:
- Rec-Lite Jet Skis
- Recreational Jet Skis
- Performance Jet Skis
- Luxury and Touring Jet Skis
- Tow Sport Jet Skis
- Sport Fishing Jet Skis
- Freestyle Jet Skis
- Stand-Up Jet Skis
Rec-Lite Jet Skis: Affordable & Fun
Rec-Lite Jet Skis are Lightweight, compact, and fuel-efficient. Price range for the Recf-Lite is generally between $5000 – $8000. Good Rec-Lite models are the Sea-Doo Spark and the Yamaha EX Series. Rec-Lite jet skis normally have engines capable of producing between 60-100 horsepower; hence achieving top speeds around 50 mph. Thus they provide good rides that could be enjoyed by families as well as individuals who just want to relax on a lake doing nothing else but having fun. Within the Rec-Lite category affordability is important along with ease-of-use positioning it at an attractive entry point for newbies to the jet ski market.
Recreational Jet Skis
Recreational Jet Skis are versatile, stable with moderate power. They are great for family fun, general recreation, and cruising. Good recreational jet skis are the Yamaha VX Cruiser and the Sea-Doo GTI Series. The price range is anywhere from about $8000 – $12,000. In terms of performance, these jet skis are powered by engines that produce 100-150 horsepower allowing them to reach speeds of up to 60 mph. These are designed to cope with different water conditions ranging from calm lakes to moderate rough waters. These types of personal watercraft will always have enough storage space for your personal items and accessories, thus suitable for those people who enjoy water sports and recreational activities.
Performance Jet Skis
Performance jet skis have high speed, great performance and are agile. They are desigend for thrill seekers and competive racing. The price range for performance jet skis is around $10,000 – $15,000. Great performance jet skis include the Kawasaki Ultra 310R and Yamaha GP1800R. This type of jet ski is marketed as high-end options in the jet ski market; it appeals to enthusiasts looking for cutting-edge technology and superior performance. It is fitted with powerful engines that provide agile handling, allowing them to be perfect for tight turns and high speeds. If one wants to compete or just enjoy a high-speed ride, he should consider using these performance jet skis like watercraft which give a thrilling experience.
Luxury & Touring Jet Skis
These high end jet skis are equipped for distance touring and luxury cruising with a price tag between $15,000 – $20,000. The recommended product models are the Sea-Doo GTX Limited and the Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO. These jet skis can go long distances very efficiently as well as maintain an excellent performance level. Positioned as premium products these are meant for people who love luxurious living which is highly influenced by technology and they have a competitive edge in terms of speed.
Tow Sport Jet Skis
These are designed specifically for towing activities like wakeboarding and skiing. The price range is between $12,000 – $18,000. Recommended product modelsinclude the Sea-Doo Wake Pro and the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO. These jet skis provide stable platforms that can carry heavy loads during the towing of wakeboards. Some brands even come with particular modes adjusted specifically for wakes or ballast tanks aimed at creating favorable wake conditions. Therefore, these jet skis are marketed towards watercraft enthusiasts who want speed blended with functionality in their watercraft.
Sport Fishing Jet Skis
These are of course equipped with fishing-specific features and gear, and designed for anglers who want to fish from jet skis. The price for these jet skis can be anywhere between $14,000 – $20,000. A couple recommended Product Models are the Sea-Doo Fish Pro and the Yamaha FX HO. Sophisticated technology plays a significant part in making these fishing jet skis excellent for angling purposes. They have built-in fish finders and GPS navigation systems that help identify good spots for fishing trips or new routes across water bodies. Using GPS systems, one can easily retrace successful spots while fish finders relay information about the depth of water bodies plus fish locations in real-time.
Freestyle Jet Skis: Mastering Tricks & Stunts
These jet skis are lightweight, agile, and designed for tricks and stunts, and ideal for performing freestyle tricks and competitive stunts. Price range is between $8,000 – $12,000. Recommended product models include the Yamaha SuperJet and the Kawasaki SX-R. Freestyle jet skis are made specifically for trick riding, which demands a lot from the jet ski’s build quality. On the whole, freestyle jet skis provide a safe and well-coordinated way of fast, flexible, and controlled movement for thrill-seekers or people who enjoy competitive water-based activities.
Stand-Up Jet Skis: The Ultimate Challenge for Riders
Stand-up jet skis are designed for stand-up riding, offering high agility and control, ideal for experienced riders and competitive racing. Prices range between $7,000 – $10,000. The recommended product models are the Kawasaki SX-R and the Yamaha SuperJet. All in all, stand-up Jet Ski delivers an unrivaled mix of agility, control, and performance Their design and engineering make them perfect for riders looking at something more challenging involving watercraft users’ interaction Whether you’re involved in racing or you’re pulling off some freestyle tricks, the stand-up Jet Ski is what you need to succeed on water.
Must Have Jet Ski Accessories
Bungee Dock Line Mooring Rope 2-Pack
Quick docking: 316 stainless steel snap, even without any experience can be quickly docked in 7 seconds; two foam floats can protect the boat from scratching, even if accidentally dropped into the water will not sink. Keeping you safe: Built in hidden rubber band rope and woven PE outer layer consists of, it is used as a built-in shock absorber to absorb the maximum impact of tide or waves. The boat bumps but still holds. The attachment can dock and protect your boat, thus keeping you safe. Essential for water sports: For boats and PWC up to 4,500 lbs, tensile strength 2200 lbs, best choice for motorboats, SeaDoo, Yamaha WaveRunner, kayaks, pontoons, dinghies, etc. Purchase Bungee Dock Line Mooring Rope Here
Emergency Whistles with Lanyard Safety
This whistle will exactly do that! If you are on a hiking trip, out on the water, walking the streets after dark or you find yourself caught in an emergency situation, you want to be as prepared as possible.
Stash these safety whistles in your gear or make them a thoughtful little gift to help keep loved ones safer in their adventures. Purchase Emergency Whistles with Lanyard Safety Here
Attwood Emergency Telescoping Paddle for Boating
The Attwood Emergency Telescoping Paddle combines the power and leverage of a 42-inch long paddle with the convenience of compact storage at 20 inches. Durable plastic and corrosion-resistant aluminum construction makes it reliable when you need it most. This paddle floats, so you never lose this essential piece in the water. Purchase Attwood Emergency Telescopibg Paddle for Boating Here
Quick Dry Water Shoes
These water shoes have sturdy soles for grip on wet surfaces. They dry rapidly, preventing discomfort and odors. They shield the feet from sharp objects and potential hazards, and offer a snug, flexible fit ideal for diverse water activities. Purchase Quick Dry Water Shoes Here
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HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag
Use professional seamless technology. Our dry bag has the overall waterproof capability, making sure to keep your items and valuables dry when you do some water sports like boating and kayaking. A great jet ski essential or gift. Each bag comes with a free waterproof cell phone case, for waterproof protection with water sports. Purchase HEETA Waterproof Dry Bag Here
AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack
Waterproof Protection and Confident Impermeable! Triple zip lock protection up to 32 feet (10 meters) underwater. No worries of your valuables getting wet. Keep your phone and wallet perfectly dry and safe from a splash, a spill, or total immersion for all your watersports Purchase AiRunTech Waterproof Fanny Pack Here
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Sea-Doo New OEM Safety Kit
This kit includes all the essentials for your watercraft. 50 feet (15 meter) of buoyant heaving line, bailer, whistle and watertight flashlight. Purchase Sea-Doo New OEM Safety Kit Here
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Liquid Force 2024 Classic Hinge CGA Life Jacket
Designed to keep you safe while you’re out on the water. High visibility colors keep you seen whether you’re lounging at the dock or enjoying a pull behind the boat. Enjoy full range of mobility and functionality out of your gear. Purchase Liquid Force 2024 Classic Hinge CGA Life Jacket Here
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Hurricane Eyewear Category 5 Jet & Ski Floating Sunglasses (Set of 2)
Two-in-one goggle-sunglasses hybrid converts from standard sports, beach, and everyday sunglasses to sports goggles with removable arms and interchangeable elastic strap convert sunglasses into goggles for a super-snug fit when you need it and a standard fit when you don’t. Shatterproof polycarbonate scratch-resistant lenses provide 100% UV400 protection from harmful rays of the sun while anti-fog coating ensures clear visibility in all conditions. Purchase Hurricane Eyewear Category 5 Jet & Ski Floating Sunglasses Here
Hi great post, I have always wanted to purchase a personal watercraft, this article is tempting me even more to buy one, do they require alot of maintenance and what type of weathering do they require?
I have not found them to be very high maintenance. If you wash them off good and remove the salt water after being in the water, that is really the main item to do and it is simple. That would be considered the “weathering” too. Pretty simple to take care of really 🙂 Thanks for stopping by my personal watercraft water sports post.
Hi Lea,
WOW, this watercraft is fantastic! We live near the sea, so that would be a great toy to play with on the water:) My son is turning 16 years old, and this could be a nice present for his birthday. I wonder how old and what type of license do you need to drive this watercraft?
Thank you for this useful post!
You can drive a personal watercraft at any age. I know here in Florida, you simply need to pass the boaters test and get your boaters license which can be done online. Without a boaters license, then it varies by geographic location. I know for us the rules are completely different in the two different counties that we like to ride in. But since my son has a boaters license, it doesn’t matter for him where we ride 🙂 This would make a great birthday present!
Very interesting article! The only time I’ve been on the water is in a boat, and a Waverunner is one thing I would like to try. Maybe I’ll get my chance this summer.
It is a blast Tenia! I love being out on the water, doing anything on the water. I think it just calls my name! Thanks for reading about personal watercraft water sports.
Really, really fun read. I’m not familiar with the world of personal watercraft, and I had no idea of the pricing. It seems interesting though I must say. I’m going to check out some of your other posts to get some more information, any recommendations?
Every good jet ski for beginners should be affordable, and easy to learn on. There’s no point in investing a ton of money into a watercraft that is difficult to operate. More advanced jet ski’s will have tons of expensive add-ons that beginners don’t even understand. When starting out, look for models with minimum features. The Sea Doo Spark is definitely the most popular jet ski for beginners. With purchase options as low as $5,299, it’s a hard to beat price. I would recommend the Sea Doo Spark for a first time purchase 🙂 Please let me know if you have any other questions. Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com
The gopro is pretty good and very handy to film while doing an activity outside. I owned one before – I had to sell it for money reasons. Anyway, great ideas of accessories here. I’ll keep them in mind.
Good Ben, and yes the GoPro is great for any outdoor activities. My son uses his to video himself surfing, then watch back to correct errors. I want now too! Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com.
Fun read. I haven’t been out on the water for some time. Father-in-laws heath caused him to sell his boat, and kids have their own kids. I’m guessing in a few years when gkids get a bit older we will be right back out there. Lot of cool stuff.
Glad you enjoyed reading CT. Yes, anything on the water is fun! Thanks for reading about Personal Watercraft Water Sports.
You explained the needs for a great time enjoying water sports well. We are going into Florida’s Marco Island in the late summer and are going on a Jet Ski Tour that takes and hour and a half. I’m sure I’m going to need some of this gear. Thanks!
Yes, you will Bruce. How fun! I live in Florida but have not been to Marco Island yet. I have heard it is beautiful. Thanks for visiting BeachTraveldestinations.com.
I love going to the beach, boating, sometimes fishing, or just being there. I haven’t tried this water sport although, from the looks of it, it’s really gonna be fun. As I love trying out new things, this one is going to be added to my bucket list. Glad I came across this site.
It is fun, you will love it. I would first rent one at the beach. Here in Florida, they run between $55 – $75 for a half an hour. And you will find that to be plenty at one time. After that, my hands feel like they are going to fall off. Thanks for visiting BeachTravelDestinations.com.
great article about watercraft, but what caught my attention was the Aleader Men’s Mesh Slip on Water Shoes! These look awesome and I’m definitely heading over to Amazon to add these onto my wishlist, as my husband would love these. Thanks for sharing, cheers, Karen
You’re welcome Karen. The slip on water shoes work great! Even just for walking along the beach. Keep you from burning your feet, cutting them on shells, and of course from slipping on PWC’s. Thanks for reading about Personal Watercraft Water Sports.
Wow dang! It looks like you really know your stuff – I like how you linked a lot of items relating to this… because I would have bought them if I bought my self a PWC.
Yes, all these items, you have to have. There are a few others, but the list was getting too long LOL. Glad you enjoyed reading. Hopefully one day you can get your personal watercraft!
Hi,
Excellent post. While I would love to own a PWC someday, it just isn’t in the cards right now. For that reason I really appreciate you including a variety of price range options for when I finally am ready to own my own PWC. However I do love watching footage of PWC activities so I really like your suggestion of the GoPro. Whether just watching someone boating, jet skiing, wake boarding or something else, GoPro footage of watercraft activities is always really fun to watch. That said, the most important recommendation you’ve made here is the life jacket. Very glad to see that included here as well.
Oh yes Dev, have to have the life jacket. My son loves using the GoPro for surfing, so he can watch his tricks and correct etc. I just love to watch. Thanks for reading about the personal Watercraft water sports!
This is great info! I really didn’t know the prices ranges on various PWCs. It is interesting that there is such a wide range! Would you recommend the Kawasaki STX-15F for someone who is just learning that has two very small kids? I know you wrote that it is comfortable for family riding, so would this be my best option? If I end up purchasing one, I’d like something that would be good for my kids to ride along with me, and something that will be easy for them to learn on when they are old enough to ride themselves. Also, how long can I aspect it to run well if I’m taking great care of it? For that kind of money I am hoping it’ll be an investment that will last awhile!! HA!
Thanks again for this great post.
This is a great personal watercraft for kids to learn on. And they will last a very long time if taken care of. The engine hours (hours of enjoyment) really does not take a toll on the life expectancy of the personal watercraft. Taking care of it does. So it is a great and fun investment that will last many years if taken care of. Thanks for visiting the Personal Watercraft Water Sports post 🙂
Thank you for your response! Very helpful
You are most welcome!
Hi
A great and very informative post. At present, I have no plans to buy a personal watercraft but would consider one at the entry level. I have bookmarked your post to come back later. But in the meanwhile may I ask you to advise me on the various things to be considered apart from the price and Horsepower.
I am leaving my email ID below. Please add me to your list and keep me updated.
Hi Arun, there are a few things to consider on top of price and horsepower. First, you want to decide if you want a 1, 2, or 3 seater. You will also want to decide if you want one that allows you to stand up, however this is for more experience riders. Whether you want to buy new or used should be considered as well. If it is used; water test it, check for damages, check for rust, and check if it has been sunk (take off seat and see how heavy it feels, a watercraft that has been sunk will have a very heavy seat). Those are the biggies 🙂 Thanks for reading!
I had no idea that this much went into water sports! It’s really involved from the looks of it. Have you ever seen that water jet pack they have now? That thing looks insane, definitely want to try it lol.
Yeah, I have seen the water jet pack. I am willing to try anything once, but I am not so sure about this LOL. Yes, if you live near a beach, you would see so many different varieties of water sports. It has really grown into a hobby. Thanks for visiting!
How fast can these personal watercraft vehicles go? The video didn’t say anything about speed so was just wondering. Would like to get one soon, and 6500 seems like a pretty good price to start looking at some.
About 70 mph is about the fastest. I know my son likes to push it to the limit and scares me to death! No, $6,500 is not bad at all. Come back when you are ready for all the accessories 🙂 Thanks for visiting Personal Watercraft Water Sports.