Personal watercraft insurance is a type of insurance that provides financial protection to owners of jet skis, wave runners, and similar watercraft. It covers damage to the personal watercraft and liability for any injury or property damage caused by the watercraft.

PersonalWatercraftInsurance.com is a website that provides information about personal watercraft insurance policies and the companies that offer them. The website features a blog section where they regularly post articles and guides on various topics related to personal watercraft insurance. These posts cover everything from the basics of personal watercraft insurance to tips for finding the best policy for your needs. Additionally, the blog section provides readers with valuable insights into the latest trends and updates in the personal watercraft insurance industry. Overall, PersonalWatercraftInsurance.com is a useful resource for anyone looking for information on personal watercraft insurance.

Hello and welcome! If you own a personal watercraft (PWC), such as a jet ski or wave runner, you know how much fun they can be out on the water. However, as with any recreational vehicle, accidents can happen, and that’s where personal watercraft insurance comes in. It provides financial protection and peace of mind in case of damage to your PWC or any liability you may incur while operating it. But what about the cost? Fear not! There are many discounts available that can help keep your PWC insurance affordable. By exploring the various discounts and factors that affect your premium, you can find the best policy for your needs without breaking the bank. So, let’s dive in and explore the world of PWC insurance discounts!

First, it is essential to note that not all insurance plans offer the same discount options for PWCs. Therefore, it’s crucial to call the insurance company and confirm the discounts they offer on PWC policies. You may even be surprised to learn they have additional discounts that are not listed, which can save you even more money. So, it’s always worth taking the time to call the company before buying a policy to confirm how you can save. By doing so, you’ll avoid any potential surprises or disappointments down the road and ensure that you’re getting the best possible deal on your PWC insurance policy.

Save Money on PWC Insurance with Multi-Policy Discount: How It Works and Why You Should Consider It

Consider a multi-policy discount if you want to save money on your watercraft (PWC) insurance policy. Many insurance companies offer this type of discount, which can help you save significant money on your premiums.

A multi-policy discount is a type of discount you can receive when you purchase more than one policy from the same insurance company. For example, suppose you have a homeowner’s insurance policy with an insurance company and buy a PWC insurance policy from the same company. In that case, you may be eligible for a multi-policy discount. This discount is usually applied to both policies and can result in significant savings.

The multi-policy discount varies from company to company, but it can sometimes be as high as 25%. Bundling your PWC insurance policy with another policy could potentially save you hundreds of dollars on your PWC insurance policy each year.

Furthermore, a multi-policy discount saves you money and simplifies your insurance management. Having one insurance company to manage all your policies makes tracking your coverage and payments more manageable. It also means you must only contact one insurance company with any questions or concerns.

To take advantage of a multi-policy discount, you should contact your insurance company and ask about the discounts they offer for bundling policies. Be sure to compare the savings you can receive from different companies to ensure you get the best possible deal.

In conclusion, a multi-policy discount is an excellent way to save money on your PWC insurance policy while simplifying your insurance management. By bundling your policies with the same insurance company, you can receive significant discounts and enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive coverage. So, don’t hesitate to explore this option when shopping for PWC insurance policies.

Save Money on Your Boat Insurance Premium with the Responsible Driver Discount

Are you a responsible driver with a clean driving record for the last three years? If so, you could be eligible for a significant discount on your boat insurance premium!

Many insurance companies offer a responsible driver discount to policyholders with no watercraft or motor vehicle violations or accidents on their record for a certain period, usually three years. This discount rewards responsible drivers who have demonstrated safe and cautious driving habits.

By taking advantage of the responsible driver discount, you can save considerable money on your boat insurance premium. The discount varies from company to company, but it can range from 10% to 30% or more, depending on the insurance provider and your location. If you are a responsible driver, you could save hundreds of dollars on your boat insurance policy each year.

But the benefits of being a responsible driver go beyond saving money on your insurance premium. Maintaining a clean driving record can also help you avoid accidents and keep yourself and others safe on the water. Practicing safe boating habits and following all applicable rules and regulations can reduce your risk of accidents and ensure your time on the water is enjoyable and stress-free.

So, if you have a clean driving record for the last three years, it’s time to take advantage of the responsible driver discount and save money on your boat insurance premium. Contact your insurance provider today to find out if you qualify for this discount and start enjoying the benefits of being a responsible driver on the water!

Maximizing Your Boat Insurance Coverage: Consider Transferring to a New Company for Better Service and Savings

If you’re already paying for boat insurance but are unsatisfied with your current provider, consider transferring your coverage to another company. Not only will you potentially enjoy better coverage and service, but you’ll also be eligible for a transfer discount.

Many insurance companies offer transfer discounts to incentivize boat owners to switch to their services. Depending on the company’s policy, this discount is typically a percentage of your premium or a fixed amount. By taking advantage of this discount, you can save significant money on your boat insurance premium while receiving comprehensive coverage.

Moreover, transferring your boat insurance to a new company can bring many benefits. For instance, you might discover that the new company offers better coverage options, such as more extensive liability limits, lower deductibles, or more specialized coverage for your specific type of boat. Additionally, you may appreciate better customer support, faster claims processing, or a more user-friendly online platform.

If you’re considering transferring your boat insurance to a new company, researching and comparing different providers is essential. Look for companies specializing in boat insurance with a good reputation for customer satisfaction. You can also ask for recommendations from other boat owners or check online reviews to learn about other customers’ experiences.

Once you’ve narrowed your options, contact each company to request a quote for your coverage needs. Be sure to mention that you’re interested in the transfer discount and ask about any other discounts or promotions they offer. You can also inquire about additional coverage options or any other questions about their policies.

Transferring your boat insurance to another company can be an intelligent financial decision, especially if you’re eligible for a transfer discount. By researching and comparing different providers, you can find a company that offers better coverage, service, and savings. So, don’t hesitate to explore your options and maximize your boat insurance coverage.

Save Money on Your Boat Insurance: Join the USCG or USPS and Get an Association Discount

If you’re a boater looking to save money on your boat insurance, consider joining the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCG) or United States Power Squadron (USPS). Some insurance companies offer an association discount to members of these organizations, which can significantly reduce your boat insurance premiums.

The USCG and USPS are nonprofit organizations that promote safe boating practices, education, and training. By joining these organizations, you can learn valuable boating skills and become a better, safer boater. The best part is you can save money on your boat insurance premiums!

The association discount varies from company to company but can be as high as 10% or more. To qualify for the discount, you must provide proof of membership in the USCG or USPS to your insurance company. Once you do, your insurance company will apply the discount to your policy, reducing your premiums.

Aside from the savings on boat insurance premiums, joining the USCG or USPS has many other benefits. For example, you can attend educational seminars, receive training in navigation, safety, and first aid, participate in social events and boat trips, and even participate in community service projects.

Moreover, being a member of the USCG or USPS can help you stay up-to-date with the latest boating regulations and safety standards, which can help you avoid accidents and costly insurance claims. By staying informed and educated, you can become a safer, more responsible boater and more informed and active citizen.

In conclusion, if you’re a boater looking to save money on your boat insurance while improving your boating skills and knowledge, consider joining the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCG) or United States Power Squadron (USPS). Doing so allows you to qualify for an association discount on your boat insurance premiums, get involved in a vibrant boating community, and become a better, safer boater. So, explore this option and see how you can benefit from being a member of these excellent organizations.

How Completing a State-Approved Safety Course Can Save You Money on Your Boat or Watercraft Insurance Policy

Do you want to save money on your boat or watercraft insurance policy? One way to do so is by completing a state-approved safety course and taking advantage of the safety course discount offered by many insurance companies.

Completing a safety course will not only teach you valuable safety skills and knowledge, but it will also qualify you for a discount on your insurance premium. The discount amount varies from company to company, but it can be as high as 15% or more.

Completing a safety course shows your insurance company that you’re a responsible boater and take safety seriously. It also reduces the risk of accidents or incidents on the water, benefiting everyone.

Many state-approved safety courses are available in person and online and cover boating laws, navigation rules, safety equipment, and emergency procedures. These courses are designed to be informative, engaging, and easy to understand, no matter your level of experience.

To take advantage of the safety course discount, you must provide proof of completion to your insurance company. This can usually be done by submitting a certificate of completion or transcript from the course provider.

So, if you’re looking to save money on your boat or watercraft insurance policy while improving your safety skills and knowledge, completing a state-approved safety course is the way to go. Don’t wait any longer to take advantage of this discount and ensure your safety on the water!

Save Money on Boat Insurance: Pay in Full and Get a Discount.

Did you know some insurance companies offer a pay-in-full discount for boat insurance policies? While it’s not as common as other discounts, it’s worth considering if you can afford to pay your policy upfront and in full for one year.

Paying your boat insurance policy in full can result in a discount on your premium. This discount varies from company to company, but it can sometimes be as high as 10%. That’s a significant amount of savings that can add up over time.

Paying your boat insurance policy in full can simplify your insurance management by eliminating monthly payments and reducing the chances of missing a payment. It also means you don’t have to worry about future rate increases for the policy term.

If you’re interested in taking advantage of the pay-in-full discount, contact your insurance company and inquire about the discount they offer. Compare the discount with other companies to ensure you get the best possible deal.

In conclusion, paying your boat insurance policy in full can be a smart financial move that saves you money and simplifies your insurance management. So, consider this option when shopping for boat insurance policies and see if you can take advantage of the pay-in-full discount.

Mission Bay businesses and neighborhood leaders have praised the efforts of lifeguards in the area but are calling for more aggressive action to crack down on illegal rentals of recreational water vehicles, commonly known as Jet Skis. This comes after a 12-year-old girl on a paddle board was in an accident by an individual driving an illegally rented Jet Ski three weeks ago. 

While rental companies licensed by the city must explain safety protocols and how to avoid hazards in the bay, unlicensed operators are not. They also often need more insurance for licensed operators and rescue boats. 

Last month, Lifeguard Chief James Gartland expressed concern over people renting watercraft from smartphone apps instead of brick-and-mortar rental businesses. According to him, individuals lack awareness as they rent a vessel via an app, head to a public boat launch, and speed up to 70 miles an hour within 2 to 3 minutes without proper safety instructions. Operating a personal watercraft without adequate guidance can result in accidents and mishaps.

Lifeguards cite and impound illegally rented water vehicles more frequently, but they can do more to increase their efforts further. Neighborhood leaders and businesses are calling for undercover operations and higher fines to deter illegal rentals and ensure the safety of everyone in Mission Bay.

Tips to Avoid Renting from Illegal Recreational Watercraft Rentals

Renting watercraft is a popular activity for many vacationers and outdoor enthusiasts. However, it is essential to be cautious when selecting a rental company to ensure that it is a legal and reputable business. Illegal recreational watercraft rentals can be dangerous and have legal consequences for the renter and the rental company. Here are some tips on how to avoid renting from illegal recreational watercraft rentals:

1. Research: Before selecting a rental company, research to ensure it is a legitimate business. Review previous customer reviews and check if the company has any legal or regulatory issues.

2. Check for permits: Legitimate rental companies will have the permits and licenses required by state or local authorities. Ask the rental company for proof of these permits and licenses.

3. Inspect the equipment: Before renting any watercraft, inspect the equipment for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Make sure that all safety equipment is present and in good condition.

4. Ask for a contract: A legitimate rental company will provide a contract outlining the terms and conditions. Make sure to read the contract carefully and ask any questions before signing.

Following these tips, you can help ensure you rent from a legal and reputable rental company and avoid the risks of illegal recreational watercraft rentals.

Pros and Cons of Owning vs Renting a Personal Watercraft (PWC)

If you love spending time on the water, owning a personal watercraft (PWC) might seem like a great idea. However, before investing, it’s essential to consider the benefits and drawbacks of owning a PWC.

One of the main advantages of owning a PWC is the freedom it provides. You can use it whenever you want without worrying about availability or rental fees. Additionally, owning a PWC allows you to customize it to your liking, with accessories and modifications that can enhance your experience.

However, owning a PWC also comes with several drawbacks. The upfront cost of purchasing a PWC can be high, and you will also need to factor in ongoing expenses such as maintenance, storage, and insurance. Additionally, it may not be worth the investment if you don’t use your PWC frequently.

Renting a PWC, on the other hand, can be a more cost-effective option for occasional use. You can rent a PWC for a single day or extended period, depending on your needs. Additionally, rental companies typically provide safety equipment and instructions, which can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

However, renting a PWC also has its drawbacks. Rental fees can add up quickly, especially if you plan to use the PWC frequently. Additionally, you may be limited in availability, as rentals may be in high demand during peak season.

Ultimately, buying or renting a PWC depends on your needs and budget. If you plan to use a PWC frequently and can afford the initial investment and ongoing expenses, owning a PWC may be the right choice for you. If you only plan to use a PWC occasionally or want to save on costs, renting may be the better option.

Understanding Insurance Requirements for Renting a Personal Watercraft (PWC)

If you are planning to rent a personal watercraft (PWC), it is essential to understand the insurance requirements. Most rental companies require renters to have some form of insurance coverage. Understanding the insurance requirements for renting a personal watercraft (PWC) is essential because PWCs can be dangerous, and accidents can result in significant damages and injuries.

There are several ways to obtain insurance for a PWC rental. First, you can check with your existing insurance provider to see if they offer coverage for PWC rentals. If they do not, you can purchase a temporary insurance policy from the rental company or through a third-party insurance provider. 

The insurance cost for a PWC rental varies depending on the rental company, the duration of the rental, and the coverage level. Some rental companies may offer insurance as part of the rental agreement, while others may require you to purchase insurance separately. 

Reading and understanding the insurance policy terms is essential before renting a PWC. You should consider the coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Additionally, it is advisable to inquire with the rental company about any specific requirements for insurance coverage, such as a minimum coverage amount or a particular insurance provider.

In summary, having insurance coverage is typically required when renting a personal watercraft. You can obtain insurance through your existing insurance provider, the rental company, or a third-party provider. Read and understand the insurance policy terms before renting a PWC.

What to Consider When Purchasing Insurance for Your Personal Watercraft (PWC)

As a personal watercraft (PWC) owner, purchasing insurance coverage is essential to protect yourself and your investment. However, before buying insurance for your PWC, there are several factors you should consider to ensure that you get the right coverage and adequate protection.

Firstly, you should determine the type of coverage you need. Liability coverage is mandatory in most states and covers damages and injuries you may cause to others while operating your PWC. However, it is essential to note that liability coverage does not protect you or your PWC.

Next, you should consider comprehensive and collision coverage. Comprehensive coverage covers damages to your PWC caused by non-collision events such as theft, vandalism, and weather damage. In contrast, collision coverage covers damages to your PWC resulting from a collision with another object or watercraft.

It’s also essential to consider the amount of coverage you need. While it may be tempting to purchase the minimum required coverage to save money, it may not be enough to cover all damages and injuries resulting from an accident. Therefore, it is advisable to purchase enough coverage to protect yourself adequately.

Another essential factor to consider is the deductible. The deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in. A higher deductible can lower your insurance premium, but you’ll have to pay more out of pocket if an accident occurs. Therefore, it is essential to choose a deductible that you can comfortably afford to pay.

When purchasing insurance for your PWC, it is crucial to choose a reputable company. Look for a company with experience in insuring PWCs and a good reputation for claims handling. Reading online reviews and requesting recommendations from other PWC owners can help you find a reliable insurance provider.

In conclusion, purchasing insurance for your watercraft is crucial in protecting yourself and your investment. Before buying insurance, consider the type and amount of coverage you need, the deductible, and the insurance company’s reputation. Taking the time to research and choose the right insurance coverage can provide you with peace of mind while enjoying your time on the water.

Determining the Appropriate Amount of Liability Insurance Coverage for Your Personal Watercraft (PWC)

Having the right liability insurance coverage is essential when owning a personal watercraft (PWC). Liability insurance protects you financially if you cause damage to someone else’s property or injure another person while operating your PWC. But how can you determine the appropriate amount of coverage you need?

Firstly, consider the risks associated with operating a PWC. PWCs are typically faster and more maneuverable than other watercraft, which can increase the risk of accidents and collisions. Additionally, PWCs can cause significant damage to other watercraft and property due to their high speed and lack of weight. Therefore, it’s essential to have adequate liability insurance coverage to protect against potential damages.

Secondly, review your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements for PWCs. These requirements vary by state but typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 in property damage coverage and $10,000 to $50,000 in bodily injury coverage per person. While these minimum requirements may provide some protection, they may not be enough to cover all damages in the event of a significant accident.

Thirdly, consider your assets and financial situation. If you have significant assets, such as a home or a business, consider purchasing liability insurance coverage that exceeds the state’s minimum requirements. Buying the right amount of coverage can help protect your assets in case of a lawsuit or significant damages.

Finally, consult an insurance agent or broker to determine your situation’s appropriate liability insurance coverage. They can help you assess your risks and recommend coverage options that align with your needs and budget.

Determining the appropriate liability insurance coverage for your PWC is crucial for protecting yourself and your assets in an accident. Consider the risks associated with operating a PWC, review your state’s minimum liability insurance requirements, assess your assets and financial situation, and consult an insurance professional to determine the right amount of coverage for you.

Understanding Deductibles in Insurance Policies

When it comes to personal watercraft insurance, a deductible is the amount of money you will need to pay out of your pocket before the insurance company covers the remaining cost of a claim. For example, if your PWC is damaged in an accident and the repair cost is $5,000 and your deductible is $1,000, you must pay $1,000 towards the repair cost, and your insurance company will cover the remaining $4,000.

The deductible amount is typically agreed upon when you purchase your insurance policy. In most cases, a higher deductible results in lower insurance premiums, while a lower deductible results in higher premiums. Therefore, it is essential to consider your budget and your risk tolerance when choosing a deductible amount.

It is important to note that the deductible applies to each claim, so if you have multiple claims in a year, you must pay the deductible for each claim. Additionally, some insurance companies may have different deductibles for different types of claims, such as a higher deductible for claims related to theft or vandalism.

When selecting a deductible for your personal watercraft insurance policy, it is essential to consider the potential cost of repairs or replacement of your PWC. A higher deductible may be a better option if you have an older PWC that would be cheaper to replace than repair. However, if you have a newer or more expensive PWC, a lower deductible may be a better choice to ensure that you can afford to repair or replace it in the event of an accident.

Understanding Personal Watercraft Safety and Insurance Requirements.

In conclusion, illegal rentals of recreational watercraft vehicles pose a significant threat to public safety, and it is imperative to take more aggressive action to crack down on them. By following the tips for avoiding illegal rentals and understanding the pros and cons of owning or renting a PWC, you can make an informed decision that fits your needs and budget. Additionally, understanding the insurance requirements and deductibles for PWC insurance policies can help you protect yourself and your investment in the event of an accident.

Boaters have raised complaints against personal watercraft, commonly known as Jet Skis. Some of the most common grievances include excessive noise, reckless operation, and collisions. Do not have common courtesy by jumping the wake of a passing boat or riding too close to another PWC or boat. Additionally, many boaters complain about the lack of safety features and regulations for Jet Skis, which can lead to accidents and injuries. 

Other complaints include the environmental impact of personal watercraft, such as the potential for oil spills and disruption of marine life. These complaints highlight the need for better safety regulations and education for Jet Ski operators.

If you plan on using a Jet Ski, being a courteous rider is essential to ensure your and others’ safety. Here are some tips to help you be a good Jet Ski rider: 

1. Keep a safe distance from other boaters and swimmers. This will help prevent collisions and injuries. 

2. Follow all boating and Jet Ski laws and regulations. This includes wearing a life jacket, not operating the Jet Ski under the influence, and obeying speed limits and no-wake zones. 

3. Avoid making excessive noise. Jet Skis can be loud, so try to be mindful of noise levels and avoid revving the engine unnecessarily. 

4. Be aware of your surroundings. Watch for other boats, obstacles, and changing weather conditions. 

5. Respect the environment. Avoid disturbing marine life and be mindful of potential oil spills. 

Following these tips can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for yourself and others while using a Jet Ski.

Vessel titling is a record-keeping system that provides ownership protection to vessel owners, going beyond the vessel registration system. Titling is also done by the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. It also protects the interests of financial institutions or individuals that provide loans on vessels. The Department keeps computerized records on all titled vessels, and issues title certificates which document the owner of a vessel and any liens that lenders choose to record on the title certificate.

In the case of collision, accident, or other casualty involving a vessel in or upon or entering into or exiting from the water, including capsizing, collision with another vessel or object, sinking, personal injury requiring medical treatment beyond immediate first aid, death, disappearance of any person from on board under circumstances which indicate the possibility of death or injury, or damage to any vessel or other property in an apparent aggregate amount of at least $2,000, the operator shall without delay, by the quickest means available give notice of the accident to one of the following agencies: the Division of Law Enforcement of the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission; the sheriff of the county within which the accident occurred; or the police chief of the municipality within which the accident occurred, if applicable.

NRS 488.580 Operation of personal watercraft.

1. A person shall not operate or authorize another person to operate a personal watercraft under his ownership or control:

(a) In a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life or property of another person.
(b) Unless the operator is wearing a personal flotation device of a type approved by the United States Coast Guard and prescribed by the regulations of the commission.
(c) Unless the operator is at least 12 years of age.

2. There is prima facie evidence that a person is operating a personal watercraft in a reckless or negligent manner if that person commits two or more of the following acts simultaneously:

(a) Operates the personal watercraft within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel, unless both are leaving a flat wake or traveling at a speed of not more than 5 nautical miles per hour.
(b) Operates the personal watercraft in the vicinity of a motorboat in a manner that obstructs the visibility of either operator.
(c) Heads into the wake of a motorboat which is within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel and causes one-half or more of the length of the personal watercraft to leave the water.
(d) Within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel, maneuvers quickly, turns sharply or swerves, unless the maneuver is necessary to avoid collision.

3. As used in this section, “personal watercraft” means a class A motorboat which:

(a) Is less than 13 feet in length;
(b) Is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on, rather than in, the motorboat;
(c) Is capable of performing sharp turns or quick maneuvers; and
(d) Has a motor that exceeds 10 horsepower.

If the titled ownership of an undocumented vessel is transferred from one individual to another, an application for transfer of ownership must be filed with the county tax collector within 30 days along with a fee of $5.25. The purchaser or transferee shall be charged an additional $10 fee if the title transfer application is not properly filed within this 30 day period.

In making application for such transfer, the new owner shall surrender to the county tax collector the last title document issued for said vessel, properly executed. In addition, the new owner must remit $1 for each lien to be recorded plus applicable sales tax on the total purchase price or proof of sales tax payment. For specific instructions regarding the transfer of ownership based on probate, contractual default or prior federal documentation, contact your county tax collector office.

Personal Watercraft – A vessel less than 16 feet in length which uses an inboard motor powering a water jet pump, as its primary source of motive power and which is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing, or kneeling on the vessel, rather than in the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside the vessel.

Generally, every sail-powered vessel over eight feet in length and every motor-driven vessel (regardless of length) that is not documented by the U.S. Coast Guard which is used or on the waters of this state are subject to registration by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The vessel must be located in California.

Vessels previously registered in other states must be registered in California within 120 days of being brought into the state, if it will be used upon California waterways the majority of the time.

The term vessel applies to every description of water-craft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water, except the following:

•A seaplane on the water.
•A watercraft specifically designed to operate on a permanently fixed course and guided by a mechanical device that restricts the watercraft’s movement to the fixed course.
•A floating structure that is designed and built to be used as a stationary waterborne residential dwelling, which, (a) does not have and is not designed to have a mode of power of its own, (b) is dependent for utilities upon a continuous utility linkage to a source originating on shore, and (c) has a permanent, continuous hookup to a shoreside sewage system.
The following vessels do not have to be registered in California:

•Vessels propelled solely by oars or paddles.
•Nonmotorized sailboats that are eight feet or less in length.
•Nonmotorized surfboards propelled by a sail and with a mast that the operator must hold upright.
•A ship’s lifeboat (a dinghy is not a lifeboat).
•Vessels currently and lawfully numbered (registered) by another state that are principally used outside California.
•Vessels brought into California for racing purposes only (exempted only during races and tune-ups).
NOTE: Commercial vessels of five net tons or more, or 30 feet or more in length must be registered (documented) by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Recreational boating activity has been shown to affect various marine mammal species (Dornbusch & Company 1994; Evans 1991; Green 1991; US Department of Commerce 1990). For example, boating traffic frequently flushes harbor seals from the haul-out sites they use to rest, sleep, molt, nurse and give birth (Allen et al. 1984; Calambokidis et al. 1991; Lelli and Harris 2001; Mortenson et al. 2000; Suryan and Harvey 1999).

Flushing from these sites disrupts normal rest and/or social interactions and separates pups from their mothers (potentially subjecting them to injury or predation and reducing the overall population size). Harbor seals are more likely to return, or rehaul, to these sites if disturbances are of short duration; therefore, high levels of boating traffic or prolonged vessel use may act as a continuous disturbance and prevent rehauling (Allen et al. 1984). Despite concerns regarding PWC use, several studies indicate that harbor seals tend to react more strongly to paddled vessels than to motorized ones (Calambokidis et al. 1991; Lelli and Harris 2001; Suryan and Harvey 1999).

PWC have extensive shallow-water capabilities that enable them to access sensitive aquatic and near-shore habitats. This generates concern because most PWC use occurs during the spring and summer months and coincides with critical wildlife phases such as spawning, mating and nesting (Bluewater Network 1998; Martin 1999; NPCA 1999).

Therefore, PWC have the potential to cause adverse wildlife impacts by interfering with feeding, foraging, mating, migration, nesting and reproduction (Burger 1998; Lelli and Harris 2001; Mikola et al. 1994; Pfister et al. 1992; Rodgers 1995; Rodgers and Smith 1997). PWC also have the to potential to physically damage or chemically pollute shallow-water wildlife habitats (Ballestero 1990; Balk et al. 1994; Tjaernlund et al. 1995,1996; Snow 1989; Warrington 1999).

These concerns are not unique to PWC, however. Non-motorized vessels also have extensive shallow-water accessibility and are widely linked to both wildlife disturbance and habitat damage. Outboard motorboats are equipped with the same engines as PWC and have similar types and magnitudes of toxic emissions. They are also just as capable (if not more) of churning up benthic habitats and are more likely to damage seagrass beds (Ballestero 1990; Snow 1989).

Many conventional motorboats are also being equipped with technologies that enable them to access extremely shallow areas. These technologies include electric tilt mechanisms (which raise outboard motors out of the water), jack-plates (which lift propellers onto boat transoms) and jet-feet (which replace propellers with impellers).

In general, there is an overwhelming lack of scientific research regarding PWC-related wildlife impacts. Recent reports summarize extensive anecdotal information put forth by professional wildlife scientists and resource managers. Until more conclusive studies are conducted, however, it cannot be established if PWC threaten wildlife more than other recreational vessels.

Through studies mandated in 1990, the EPA has concluded that the gasoline-powered engines found on motorboats, jetboats and PWC comprise about 30% of all nonroad emissions. Furthermore, in areas with extensive boating populations, marine engines alone can account for 10% of all hydrocarbon emissions. Consequently, in 1996, the EPA established new air emission standards for all gasoline-powered marine engines.

These standards are being phased in from 1998-2006 and should reduce the hydrocarbon emissions of these engines by 75% in 2025 (US EPA 1996). In addition to these federal standards, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) has adopted a more stringent set of regulations to address that state’s massive boating population and extreme air quality problems.

CARB requires marine engine manufacturers to reduce their hydrocarbon emissions by 75% on 2001 models and by 90% on 2008 models (CARB 1998). Neither the EPA nor the CARB standards apply to engine models pre-dating the restrictions.

Two-stroke and 4-stroke engines derive their power in similar ways but they differ widely in their operational efficiency and emission levels. Both engine types burn a mixture of gasoline and air in an airtight cylinder. This combustion results in a buildup of gas pressure that pushes a piston down through the cylinder to create potential energy. In outboard motorboats, the potential energy is then transferred via connecting rods from the cylinder to the driveshaft where it powers a propeller and pushes the watercraft (Kuzminski and Jackvicz 1972). In PWC, the energy is transferred from the cylinder to an impeller that drives a pump and creates a pressured water jet that propels the vessel.

Two-stroke and 4-stroke engines utilize different lubrication methods that affect their overall emissions levels. Four-strokes have a separate lubricating system that minimizes the release of unburned oil into the water but 2-strokes require oil to be added directly into the fuel. The use of this mixture releases more oil, hydrocarbons and particulate matter than pure gasoline and results in a smoky blue exhaust (ENSR 1998).

According to the NTSB, most PWC accidents and fatalities are due to three factors: inattention, inexperience and/or inappropriate use of speed (1998). These factors have little to do with the vessel itself and stem from the fact that PWC riders receive little, if any, training before they embark on the water. Consequently, they are not familiar with navigational rules and regulations, they are not aware of PWC safety precautions and they may behave recklessly and irresponsibly.

To rectify this, boating safety officials are turning to education to enhance the awareness and safety of the boating community. Many states have institutionalized boating operation and safety training classes and several have implemented mandatory education requirements for some or all boaters. Although these requirements usually focus on younger boaters (i.e., children and teenagers) and rental customers, the high-profile controversy surrounding PWC safety and use has prompted many states to mandate education and training for PWC operators of all ages.

As previously noted, many of the high-performance design characteristics that make PWC appealing to ride also make them relatively dangerous and difficult to control. For example, PWC can accelerate rapidly and can travel across the water at very high speeds.

They can also turn abruptly and weave through heavily congested boat traffic. Despite this maneuverability, PWC can be difficult to slow, stop or reverse. In fact, the only way to stop most PWC is to lay off the throttle and coast, which can be precarious when operating a PWC near other vessels or obstacles (Bluewater Network 1998; NPCA 1999).

Stability can also be problematic for PWC operators. Older, smaller PWC models may be less stable than other vessels and may capsize when the operator falls off, thereby putting the operator at risk of drowning or being hit by a passing vessel (NPCA 1999). Finally, many PWC lack “off-throttle steering” so the vessel can only be turned if the engine is receiving sufficient power. This power-dependent steering mechanism is counterintuitive to most boaters and may contribute to PWC collisions (Bluewater Network 1998; NPCA 1999; NTSB 1998).