How to Drive a Jet Ski: A Guide for Beginners

Jet skiing is a fun and exciting water sport that comes with a lot of benefits, such as improving your physical and mental health. You may have been looking for a thrilling experience on the water and considered jet skiing, but are curious as to how it works.

Here’s a guide on how to drive a jet ski, along with some tips for beginners:

How to Drive a Jet Ski

Here’s how to ride a jet ski:

Find a Comfortable Position

Before you start the engine, it’s important to get in a comfortable position. Once you are on the jet ski, you should first find a comfortable sitting position. Don’t rush this and adjust until you feel stable and at ease in your sitting position.

After that, hold the handlebars firmly, but not too tightly, and relax your shoulders. Then, place your feet on the footrests of the jet ski.

Start the Engine

After finding a comfortable position, you are ready to start the engine. Turn on the jet ski’s ignition switch to begin your ride.

It’s important to note that you should always have the kill switch cord wrapped around your wrist. This is crucial for your safety as it turns off the engine if you fall off.

Slowly Push the Throttle

Gently push the throttle so that you can begin moving forward. Start at a slow pace until you get used to the throttle’s sensitivity. Steer away from the shore and any obstacles or boat traffic.

Gradually Increase Speed

Once you are at a safe distance from the shore and any boat traffic or swimmers, you can gradually increase the speed of your jet ski. To accelerate, gradually increase the throttle. To slow down or stop, use the brake lever.

Remember to maintain a speed that you’re comfortable with to avoid accidents. Also, apply pressure gently to avoid sudden jolts.

Steering and Turning

The steering handlebars control the direction of the jet ski and are used for turning. When turning, lean your body in the direction you want to go, whether the left or the right. This will help you maintain control and balance as you turn. You also need to accelerate to turn effectively.

Riding in Waves

While riding a jet ski, you may encounter large waves, which would make things challenging. To ride waves effectively, make sure to approach them at the right speed and angle. Adjust your speed and cross waves at a 90° angle to maintain stability.

Maintaining Control

Driving a jet ski is all about balance and control. Start with a slow speed and gradually increase speed as you gain confidence. Maintain a steady speed and lean into turns. Adjust when crossing waves. Master control and have a fun and thrilling jet ski ride.

What to Do When You Fall Off

If you happen to fall off your jet ski, stay calm and reboard from the back of the machine. Use the handles at the back of the seat to pull yourself out of the water and get back on the jet ski. Then, move to the seat and attach the safety lanyard.

It’s important to remember that attempting to board the jet ski from the side can make it flip, so always reboard from the back.

Jet Skiing Tips for Beginners

Here are some tips to make your jet ski experience fun, safe, and memorable:

Know Your Jet Ski and Understand the Controls

Before you begin your jet ski ride, familiarize yourself with the controls of the jet ski and how the jet ski responds. Familiarize yourself with the throttle, handlebars, and emergency shut-off buttons. This will help you operate the jet ski effectively.

Dress Appropriately and Wear Safety Gear

You should also wear proper clothing for jet skiing. Wear swimwear that’s comfortable, feet protection, eye protection, and most importantly, a life jacket. Avoid any outfit that can get caught in the jet ski’s machinery. Also make sure to leave behind accessories, wallets, and cell phones.

Stay Hydrated: Drink Lots of Water

Jet skiing can be a good workout and help burn calories. But because it can also be physically demanding, make sure to drink a lot of water before and after your jet ski ride. It’s important to stay hydrated, especially on hot days.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings and Keep a Safe Distance

When riding a jet ski, stay alert and always be aware of your surroundings. There could be swimmers, boats, or other jet skiers nearby. To avoid accidents from happening, look in all directions and keep a safe distance.

Pay Attention to the Briefing and Follow the Rules

Before you begin your jet ski ride, you will be briefed by professional instructors on how to drive a jet ski and all the rules you need to observe. Listen carefully to the briefing and make sure you understand everything.

While you may get too excited to begin jet skiing, take time to ask questions or raise any concerns. Additionally, make sure to follow all the rules. Follow all the boating laws and regulations, including speed limits.

Other Safety Rules to Remember Before Jet Skiing

While jet skiing is a very fun and exciting activity, there can be some risks and dangers involved. But all of these can be avoided as long as appropriate safety measures are observed. Apart from keeping a safe distance and paying attention to the briefing, also take note of the following:

1. Don’t Drink Alcohol

One thing that you must not do before your jet ski ride is consume alcohol. Jet skiing requires you to maintain control, be alert, and pay extra attention, especially when you are riding waves. But you won’t be able to do these things if you are drunk, so think twice before consuming alcohol before your jet ski ride.

2. Be Aware of Weather Conditions

It’s important to check weather conditions before your jet ski ride. Avoid jet skiing in rough waters as this could pose a risk to your safety. If a storm suddenly approaches while you are jet skiing, head to the shore immediately.

3. Avoid Unnecessary Risks

While it may be fun to try out some cool moves, don’t do so if you are unsure that you can execute them safely. Don’t push your limits or engage in stunts when you’re just beginning.

Also, it’s best to avoid standing on the jet ski until you gain more experience. Standing gives you less control and increases your chances of falling. Wait until you gain more experience before you start driving the jet ski from a standing position.

Plan Your Jet Ski Ride with Ride In Dubai

To have the best jet ski experience, it’s important to avail of jet ski rental services from a trusted professional watersports company. At Ride In Dubai, we offer high-quality services and have the best equipment.

We have a team of professional and experienced riders and instructors ready to guide you and answer any questions you may have about how to drive a jet ski. Contact us today!