Jetski Use on the Sea

1] You probably already know this, but, DON'T "beach" (riding it all the way up onto the sand) your ski. This is very bad for the impeller and cooling system. It has also been suggested that you shouldn't start (or) run your engine in less than 3-4 feet of water. The waves (even small ones) in shallow water, continually churn up sand from the ocean floor and this would have a lessor, but similar effect of "beaching" your ski.

2] When taking a break from riding, should you anchor your ski out away from the shore (in about 4 ft. of water) [OR] float the ski (with the engine off) up onto the sandy beach??? Most people float it up onto the beach letting it rest on the sand, however, I personally don't feel comfortable with this. While the ski rocks back and forth on the sand, water is lapping up all around the nozzle and intake grate allowing sand to settle in both. People who do this say that all you have to do is float the ski back out into waist deep water, rock it from side to side and front to back, BEFORE starting the engine. While this probably does get out most of the sand (in the nozzle and grate/impeller), I would prefer the anchoring in 4 ft. of water method. I can't give you any anchoring tips because the rental guy didn't do this. Depending upon the size of the shoreline waves, you may have to use 2 anchors - 1 for the front AND 1 for the rear of the ski.

3] Try to avoid riding over patches of seaweed (or any floating debris). Your grate may not be able to prevent it from being sucked up into the impeller. This may not cause any permanent damage, but, it sure will cause a sudden loss of power until you can get it out, AND, it should be removed quickly.

4] Launching & Loading your ski "from the beach" using your trailer. It has been my experience that most of the time you ride in the ocean, you will NOT have a convenient boat ramp/dock to use. Therefore, you'll have to launch/load from the shoreline. Actually, LAUNCHING your ski, by yourself, is not that hard, but, you may need a partner to help you LOAD it back up at the end of the day. If you don't want to get the rear wheels, brakes, and differential of your vehicle in the salty water (I wouldn't); the best way to launch and load is to unhook the trailer from your vehicle and hand-push it in and out of the water.

5] Due to oceans usually having quite a bit of chop, learn to ride your sit-down ski, STANDING UP. This will prevent you from having the "raw arse". You'll also feel more "in control" of your ski.

6] DON'T ride too close to the shoreline where swimmers are playing.