NATIONAL BOATING
COLLEGE

Safety tips for PWC Operation

When operating a PWC on narrow rivers always travel at a safe speed and keep to distance off rules.

Personal watercraft (PWC, jetski, waverunner) are fast, powerful and challenging to ride and they are a popular choice for on-the-water activities.

That is why its important to know how to drive them safely,competently and with courtesy to other boaties.

 

Know the rules

Follow NSW regulations and restictions. Learn the collision regulatons legally, how to signal and pass other vessels, which boat has the right of way, and how to read aids to navigation.  

Know your PWC

Depending on how much noise and smoke they emit, some PWC are considered ruder than others, old carbureted 2-strokes are considered the height of rudeness. If you are one of the majority of riders using a carbureted 2-stroke PWC, the key is to keep your watercraft well-maintained for minimal smoke emission (there is probably not much you can do about noise).

Manufacturers have been addressing both smoke and noise pollution with a new breed of low-decibel 4-strokes.

Know your ability

Develop operation skills that promote safety and courtesy. Learn to use the throttle and steering properly (many beginners let go of the the throttle when they are heading at another boat or obstacle, thus losing steerage), practicing high-speed stopping and steering maneuvers, and scanning the horizon constantly for other boats.

Get to know other experienced and enthusiastic riders, like Team Seadoo Sydney. Chances are you'll see this group of keen PWC racers and riders on Sydney waterways every weekend. Use common-sense, like slowing down or avoiding anchored boats, not waking or splashing other boaters, and not doing hour-long doughnuts in front of other boats or waterfront homes. The key is to be aware of others while on the water. Accidents can happen fast.

Know your PWC operating area

Be aware of PWC restriction areas and environmental concerns. Stay clear of nesting grounds and fragile ecosystems. Keep a good lookout, watch for swimmers. Areas around bays, beaches and marinas can fill up quickly with people who might want to swim, so before you decide to gun it, scan the area for potential problems.

Have effective communication tools on hand when operating your PWC

Take the precaution of putting your mobile into a water-proof pouch and carry it with you.

WHEN RIDING A PWC (JESTSKI) YOU MUST:

Carry you PWC Licence at all times.

Operating a PWC in exclusion zones is not permitted. Check to see whether PWC's are allowed in the area. Irregular driving is prohibited in Sydney PWC exlusions zones, or within 200m of the shore near residences. Obey speed restrictions.

Wear a PFD Type 1 offshore. Type 2 or 3 on enclosed waters.

Remember the distance off rules When operating at 10 knots or more stay: 60m from people, small non-power driven craft, surf of swimming zones. 30m from other vessels, objects, structures or shore. Know and obey the collison regulations.

Avoid offensive behaviour. Noise may annoy.

Riding a PWC between sunset and sunrise is prohibited. Back to top