Jetski safaris, Beach rescue, Rescue watercraft (RWC), RNLI, RYA schools, Harbour patrol, Swift water rescue

PWs are often used in the 'work' environment as they have a high speed response, can operate in shallow water and can often access areas that boats cannot. The use of jet propulsion means that they are a very safe craft to operate around people in the water due to the fact that there are no exposed moving parts.

The PWP along with the RYA and BMF have produced a Personal Watercraft Management Guide for authorities - its available to download by clicking here: PW Management Guide

Some of their uses and the buisnesses that use them are as follows:

RNLI Beach Rescue: The sealed hull design of a PWC means that there is little risk of swamping unlike that of their counterparts the inflatable boat. This combined with their speed and manoueverability makes them an ideal beach rescue craft, particularly in wave conditions.

Harbour patrol: Many Harbour masters use PW's as an effective piece of kit to make their jobs easier and to carry out duties which were before unobtainable. Areas like Portsmouth, Queens Harbour Master and Poole Harbour Commissioners use them on a regular basis to carry out routine patrols and more challenging incidents. Often the PWs used for these duties are on seasonal loan from the manufacturers to benefit the on-water community.

RYA Training schools:PW's are actively used as teaching and support craft in a training environment.

Marine Police: For quick response and high speed interception almost  nothing beats the potential of a PWC with its excellent handling and manoueverability! Marine Police sections across the UK are actively using PWs in there everyday environment. Often the PWs are sponsored by the manufacturers to promote the safe and responsible use of the craft.

Rescue Watercraft: PWCs are used with combined floating rescue boards predominately for use in surf conditions. A specific course has been designed to teach the safe operation of this method run by K38 UK training. Courses such as K38 rescue boat operator and K38 Swift water Rescue operator are now available in the UK. Pre-requisites for this course include the RYA PWC competency certificate.

Swift water rescue:More common use of a PWC in recent times is for rescue in flood areas where due to the nature of the conditions shallow water access is a must and few craft can match the capabilty of a PWC for manoueverability and shallow draft.

Jetski Safari's: A great way to get on the water either if you have never used a PW before or if you do not own your own. Jetski safari buisnesses are popping up all over the world including the UK. Hour long to day long trips are available offering basic skills tuition and an opportunity to visit some beautiful areas.