What Are Jet Skis?
Jet skis are motorized watercrafts designed for recreational use. Typically, jet skis are powered by an inboard motor, and can be either one or two-person vehicles. Jet skis usually have a hull shape with the front end pointed up and the back end pointed down. This design helps to increase stability on the water, as well as provide greater maneuverability. Jet skiing is ideal for shallow water, since they don’t require a large draft like boats and other vessels.
Different Types of Jet Skis
Jet Skis come in a variety of types, depending on the purpose they are intended to serve. Here are some common jet ski categories:
1. Electric Jet Skis
Electric jet skis are the best types of jet skis for eco-friendly riders who want to reduce their carbon footprint and save money on fuel. These jet ski models feature an electric motor and reach speeds! They are usually powered by a lithium-ion battery with a range measured in ride time. Popular electric jet ski models include:
Supermarine MM01 (The Fastest Personal Watercraft)
2. Racing Jet Ski
A racing jet ski is built specifically for speed and agility, boasting engines that range from 140 to over 300 horsepower with closed-loop cooling systems and lightweight frame materials such as carbon fiber or titanium alloy components. These performance jet skis have very little storage capacity and are designed to be ridden by a single rider in a jet ski race.
3. Touring Jet Ski
A touring jet ski is designed for long-distance rides and has an engine power of up to 140 horsepower with open-looped cooling systems. It offers plenty of storage space for food, drinks, and other necessities. The hull is usually wide and flat to provide stability when traveling over long distances on choppy waters.
4. Fishing Jet Ski
A fishing jet ski is designed for sport fishing and features plenty of accessories such as rod holders, bait wells, coolers and fish finders to make your fishing expeditions more successful. It also provides ample storage space for all the necessary equipment you’ll need during your outing. These jet skis typically have an engine power of up to 110 horsepower and open-looped cooling systems.
5. Rec-Lite Jet Ski
A rec-lite jet ski is designed for beginners who want to enjoy the thrill of riding a jet ski without having to invest in a high-end model. This type of jet ski has an engine power of up to 90 horsepower and open-looped cooling systems, allowing inexperienced riders to get used to handling the craft on calmer waters with less risk.
6. Tow Sport Jet Skis
A tow sport jet ski is a powerful jet ski designed for tow sports such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, and tubing. It features a powerful engine, ranging from 140 to over 300 horsepower with closed-loop cooling systems. It also has a reinforced frame and hull that can handle the high speeds needed for these activities. Jet skis used for tow sports typically have large storage compartments so you can bring all the necessary equipment (like a tow rope) along on your water adventure.
7. Personal Watercraft (PWC)
A personal watercraft (PWC) is a type of jet ski designed specifically for one rider; however, it can accommodate an additional rider if necessary. They are usually powered by an engine between 110-140 horsepower with open-looped cooling systems. Personal Watercraft (PWC) is incredibly agile and maneuverable, making them perfect for use in tight spaces such as rivers or small lakes. Popular PWC models include:
Kawasaki Jet Ski SX-R
Yamaha WaveRunners
Sea Doo Spark
Honda AquaTrax
8. Freestyle Sit-Down Jet Ski
Freestyle sit-down jet skis are designed for experienced riders who want to perform stunts and tricks on the water. These jet skis feature powerful engines, ranging from 140 to over 300 horsepower with closed-loop cooling systems. They have reinforced hulls and frames for added durability, as well as a low center of gravity for better maneuverability in the air.
9. Stand Up Jet Ski
A stand up jet ski is an agile two-person craft that can reach speeds up to 60 mph (96 km/h). It features a powerful engine between 110-140 horsepower with open-looped cooling system and a lightweight frame made from fiberglass or carbon fiber composite materials. This type of jet ski usually has limited storage capacity, but it’s perfect for riders who want to speed through the water with minimal weight.
10 Recreational Jet Ski
A recreational jet skis are designed for leisurely rides and can accommodate up to three riders. It has a single engine, usually between 110 and 140 horsepower with an open-looped cooling system. It also offers ample storage space for items such as lifejackets and food.
11. Luxury Jet Skis
Luxury jet skis are designed for riders who want the highest performance out of their ride. They feature powerful engines, ranging from 140 to over 300 horsepower with closed-loop cooling systems and reinforced frames made from advanced composite materials such as carbon fiber. Luxury jet skis also come with lots of bells and whistles such as premium audio systems, advanced navigation systems, cruise control, and ergonomic seating. Popular luxury jet ski models include:
The Yamaha GP1800R SVHO
The Sea-Doo RXT-X 300
The Kawasaki Ultra 310R
The Best Types of Jet Skis
Whether you decide on purchasing a new jet ski, a used jet ski, the cheapest jet ski, the best jet ski depends on the type of jet skiing you plan to do. Check out our buyers guide to find the best type personal watercraft (PWC) on the jet ski market that fits your budget and your needs. Happy riding!
