Launching a PWC
Launching a personal watercraft is a complex, multistep process where a lot could potentially go wrong. Luckily, some guidance and a little practice are all you’ll need to get better at it. This guide from Seminole Powersports North will walk you through how to launch your PWC the right way.
Practice in Advance
Lining up a PWC trailer with a dock can be a challenge, and many newcomers struggle with it. Do yourself a favor and practice this skill in a secluded parking lot or other safe area. Approximate the launching ramp using cones. Remember, practice makes perfect!
Arrive Prepared
Launching ramps tend to be busy. You don’t want to spend more time using one than you have to and potentially inconvenience other boaters. Pull over before reaching the dock and put on your life jacket. Then, attach the top rope (if you’re using one), and check your PWC one last time. Additional preparations like applying sunblock, setting up the killswitch, and inserting the drain plug should be done now. Don’t forget to loosen the winch straps and safety chains so that your PWC can float once you back into the water and be sure to test your throttle.
Release Your PWC Into the Water
Start your PWC’s engine now to ensure that you won’t stall on the ramp. If there’s a line to use the launching ramp, take your place and wait. When everything’s clear and you’re all aligned, start reversing your trailer into the water. Once your trailer is submerged enough that your PWC starts to float, put your vehicle in park. If you’re doing this alone, pull your PWC out and tie it up somewhere so that it doesn’t float away. If you have help, one of you should stay with the PWC while the other finds a place to park the tow vehicle.
Pull Away From the Dock
Hitting the starter on your PWC while it’s still in shallow water can result in the intake sucking up debris and getting clogged. Wait until the water is at least three feet deep until you get on. Slowly maneuver away from the dock and give other boaters as much space as they need. Once your way is clear and you’re in open water, hit the throttle!
Shop PWCs at Seminole Powersports North in Eustis, Florida. We also offer servicing, parts, financing, promotions, test rides, and trade-ins. We’re proud to serve communities like Daytona Beach and Ocala, Florida.
