How to launch a jetski , recover, Tow a jetski, Capsize recovery, Post-recovery checks

Please find below some useful information on preparation and considerations to make regarding the care and maintenance of both yourself and your PWC (jetski). This information is just a small part of the  RYA Personal Watercraft Competency course, (more information on this training course can also be found on the 'RYA PWC training' page of this website). There is also an RYA publication with further detail called An introduction to Personal Watercraft Handbook. The RYA are the National Governing Body for PWC training.

Interpreting wind and tides:

Before heading out to your nearest bit of coast to use your PWC (jetski) one of the considerations you need to make is the weather and tides. It may be clear, sunny and calm in your back garden but is usually an entirely different story on the water. To be sure you don't make a wasted trip and of course to keep you safe, make sure you check the weather forecast and tide times before you leave. On-water activities have their own independant forecast which is called the 'inshore forecast' and is provided by the Met Office (along with a few other independant companies). The most important piece if information you need to check is the strength of the wind - the link to the inshore forecast can be found here:- Inshore Forecast compare this information to the wind scale below to make your desicion. The other aspect to consider is the tides, after all if there isn't enough water, you may not beable to launch or recover you PWC. The link to a free tidal prediction site is Easy Tide

The PWC Beaufort Wind Scale:

Towing:

Use a bowline knot for towing. Tow at no more than a brisk walking pace as water can be forced into the engine if your speed is too high. (Owners manual will tell you if it is possible to close off water intakes if a long tow is anticipated). Don't forget to check that the towing craft will not make salvage claims against you; this concern can be overcome by making a verbal agreement prior to the start of the tow.

Pre-launch checks:

Making simple checks before use is important towards preventing unexpected trouble. Be sure to make these checks:-

• Water Separator - check the bilge for water & if so drain it
• Fuel/oil - check the volume (refill as required) and check for leaks
• Steering system - check functions
• Throttle - check functions
• Battery - check fluid level and charge
• Bilge - check for bilge water & fuel. Before putting your PW in the water don't forget to insert & tighten the bung/drain plug.
• Jet intake - clean and remove dirt
• Engine area - ventilation
• Note - only major checks are mentioned here, please refer to your Owners manual or contact your dealer/engineer for further details.

Launching:

• Are you allowed to operated your PW in this area?
• Do you know the byelaws of the area? (Do some research prior to arriving at your intended launch site to see firstly if you are allowed to operate your PW their, but also to see what the area byelaws (rules) are - there will sometimes by a sign up at the slipway giving this information. FYI - Harbour masters and Marine Police do not allow ignorance as an excuse!

• Bung in?
• Check impellor is clear with a torch
• Remove lightboard, all straps etc
• Test start and stop the engine using the killcord
• Check fuel & oil levels
• Check that you have all safety equipment on board (see PW safety kit page)

Recovery:

• Flush PW with fresh water for a couple of minutes to purge salt water from the system (check owner manual for location of your flushing attachment).
• Drain water by removing bungs.
• Thoroughly wash down PW with fresh water and a mild detergent until all salt is removed.
• Sponge down inside of the engine bay and storage area (Check for oil leaks or any other loose items).
• Partially replace the seat, allowing the engine bay to vent if the PW is stored under cover. Don't forget to secure the seat before driving off!
• Have your PW regularly serviced, lubricated (non-mineral based).

Post-recovery checks:

When you return home/back to your PW storage area, clean and check your PWC; this is very important to ensure the long-lasting use of your craft.

• Cleaning Parts - wash your PW with fresh water to remove dirt & salt.
• Cooling system - wash with fresh water to remove dirt & salt. Drain the water afterwards.
• Battery - Remove the battery terminal.
• Bilge - Check the bilge for water & fuel, drain out and clean. While your PW is ashore remove the bung/plug.
• Engine area - remove the front seat and storage containers to clean and ventilate the area. When your PW is not going to be used for a week or so, treat each part with anti-rust and lubricate the internal parts (i.e. DuckOil).
• Other - treat all other metal parts with anti-rust.
• Note - Only major checkpoints are mentioned here, for further details please refer to your owners manual or contact your local dealer/engineer.

Capsize recovery:

• After capsize; make sure your engine has cut off; check label on stern for way to rotate your craft (you can damage the craft it you rotate it the wrong way), whilst you are at the back of the craft make observation checks of both the intake and jet parts to make sure there are no foreign objects or damage.

• Swim alongside (making sure you keep contact with the craft); put one hand on the grill (avoiding the ride plate as this may be hot), one hand on the grab handle and toe/knee on the rubbing strake. Roll the PW over so the water drains off and is upright.
• Move to the stern; climb over the back (beware not to tread on any of the jet parts); keep body low (especially in choppy water); re-attach the killcord, restart without choke but with slight throttle; if the engine does not restart the carbs may be flooded with fuel - leave it for a few minutes to settle. Do NOT carry out repairs afloat. If the PW does not restart call for assistance.
• Passenger - if you have a passenger, follow the same procedure but do not start the PWC until they are safely onboard. Ask the passenger to climb on from the back after you are balanced keeping their body weight low.