Your first 60 seconds on a jet ski: what actually happens

We get asked a lot what it is actually like in the first minute on a jet ski if you have never ridden one. Here is how it goes.

The first 10 seconds

Once the machine is floating in at least three feet of water (Sea-Doo’s rule (opens in a new tab), so the pump doesn’t suck up sand and rocks), hit the start button, and the engine idles. Our Sea-Doos have iBR, Sea-Doo’s brake and reverse, so they start in neutral and sit still. That is normal. Utah law (opens in a new tab) keeps you at wakeless speed within 150 feet of other boats, people in the water, launch ramps and docks, so idle out until you’re clear.

The next 30 seconds

Squeeze the right-hand throttle gently and you move forward; the jet ski accelerates smoothly. Let go and you coast. The left-hand lever is your brake: squeeze it to slow down, and from a stop it backs you up. Squeeze the throttle again, you go. It is linear and forgiving.

Turning takes throttle. This is the one thing that trips people up: jet skis steer by pushing water, so you need gas to turn. Release the throttle and you coast straight regardless of handlebar angle. Give it a little gas through turns.

The last 20 seconds

You are upright, moving, turning, and your body has figured out the balance. You will be smiling by now; this part is universal.

What if you fall off?

The kill switch lanyard (clipped to your life jacket) shuts down the engine instantly. The jet ski floats; you swim the 10 to 20 feet back to it, approach from the rear, and pull yourself up using the boarding ladder at the back.

See our Rider Resources for the full walk-through, or book your first ride.