Safety Tips for Riding a PWC As a Passenger

Personal watercraft or PWC rides are a fun way to explore your favorite bodies of water, more so when spending time with your loved ones. If a family member or friend has invited you to join them as a passenger on their PWC, you’ll want to ensure you are familiar with a few things beforehand. This will help you enjoy a safe and memorable ride and avoid jeopardizing your safety or the safety of your rider!

Establish Your Limits

Before you embark on your PWC ride, let the operator know your comfort level and discuss the intended route. Knowing whether they plan to take a straight path or navigate obstacles will help you anticipate the movements.

You’ll want to ask about the ride’s duration and speed. As a novice rider, you’ll benefit from starting with a shorter, slower ride and gradually moving to longer endeavors.

Board with Care

As a general rule, the operator should get on the PWC first, followed by the first passenger, then the second (and third, if applicable). Take the time to get settled and find your balance before setting off. Passengers should hold onto the operator’s waist with both arms while allowing them a full range of motion. When it’s time to disembark, the operator should be the last to leave.

Wear a Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

Prioritize safety on the water by wearing a well-fitting personal flotation device or PFD. This will help you stay afloat in the water if you fall off the PWC. Secure your safety vest tightly and check it for signs of wear before hitting the water.

Reboard from the Rear

If you fall off the PWC, reboard safely by swimming to the back of your machine and reboarding from the rear. Hold the rear grab bar, use the boarding ladder to get back on, and let the operator assist you. Avoid climbing up the side of the personal watercraft as it can cause everyone to lose their balance and fall into the water.

We hope you find these tips handy when riding your personal watercraft with a passenger. For more tips and advice or to upgrade your PWC to the latest model, visit Cool Springs Powersports. We have an impressive collection of PWCs from various premium brands and can help you select the perfect model for your budget and riding style. We proudly serve Franklin, Nashville, and Spring Hill, so reach out today!