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Tips for Riding a PWC as a Passenger

May. 1 2023 Safety By S&N MotorSports

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There’s nothing quite like the exhilarating experience of riding a personal watercraft (PWC) on the open waters. They offer a unique way of exploring the vast, blue sea, whether you’re alone or with company. However, if you’re a passenger on a PWC rather than the designated driver, you still have a crucial role to play. In this blog post, we’re going to share some top tips for riding a PWC as a passenger, ensuring you maximize the fun and keep yourself safe on the water.

Wear Safety Gear

You want to prioritize safety on the water by wearing safety gear, such as a wetsuit or a floatation device jacket. You should also wear footwear that grips tightly to the PWC to prevent slipping off during the ride. It’ll be useful to bring a pair of goggles to prevent water splashes and glare.

Discuss & Practice Hand Signals

Communication is key in a PWC ride, and this starts with the hand signals between the driver and the passenger.

Learn a few essential hand signals and practice them before starting the ride. For example, learn how to communicate with your driver to slow down, turn right, or left, and avoid shouting out your instructions. This can ensure you’ll have a safe and stress-free ride.

Avoid Sudden Movements

Another tip to keep in mind when riding a PWC as a passenger is to move only when necessary and to do so gently. Sudden movements can cause the driver to lose control of the PWC, which can lead to accidents at high speeds. If you need to shift your weight slightly, do so gradually and avoid making your PWC become unsteady.

Stay Vigilant

Finally, be alert and aware of your surroundings throughout the ride! Keep an eye out for other boaters, swimmers, and obstacles, such as buoys and markers, and inform the driver immediately if you sense any dangers. This will allow them to take appropriate measures to avoid a mishap.

Now that you are more familiar with the strategies to follow when riding a PWC as a passenger, you are ready to plan your debut marine adventure. If you need more advice or want to buy a personal watercraft, visit S&N MotorSports. We proudly serve Port Charlotte and Fort Myers, FL, so swing by today.