After watching, somewhat helplessly, from the shore of Lake Lanier yesterday as a young teen rider struggled to “un-capsize” himself and his runabout after taking a corner a bit too sharp, I decided today might be an opportune time to re-run a 2015 article that will not ever, at least not without some miraculous engineering feats, lose its applicability. 

Several times over the past 10 years, The Watercraft Journal published printed and video guides to righting a capsized PWC, along with some other basic-level common-sense riding tips, and it is just as relevant today, and still vital knowledge for new riders to learn and an important “refresh” for experienced riders. 

If you own a PWC, you are likely to capsize it sooner or later. You are at the highest risk of capsizing when riding with a passenger or when riding aggressively. When you come off, it may stay upright, or it could flip over and force you to quickly upright it before water can get into the engine.

Here are some tips to correctly get the ski back upright and even avoid capsizing altogether.

Don’t Flip it
It may seem obvious, but the easiest way to right a ski is to keep it right to begin with. Today’s watercraft are fairly large and extremely stable, which makes them difficult to capsize, but it is still possible. When riding aggressively, be sure to know your limits. Don’t ride harder than your ability will allow.

When Riding With a Passenger
Be sure to explain to your passenger how to lean into turns before taking them for a ride. Avoid aggressive maneuvers when riding with a passenger. It is tempting to show off for your fellow passenger, but we’re sure they wouldn’t be too impressed if you threw them off. Don’t make any unexpected sharp turns and apply throttle progressively to avoid throwing your passenger off. Keep in mind, they don’t have handlebars to hold on to, just you. If they do begin to fall off, they will probably grab you and pull you off as well.

Don’t Fight to Stay Aboard
If you begin to fall off or feel the craft start to roll, get clear of the craft as soon as possible. If you are going off the side, lose grip, then try to grab the steering again, you may end up grabbing a fist full of throttle and/or make the craft turn sharply. That certainly wouldn’t help your situation any and could send the ski or jet thrust into any passengers that already fell off. If it begins to roll, get off the ski as quickly as possible. You will do nothing but aid the flipping process by staying on it during a roll.

Wear Your Lanyard
It is extremely important to wear a lanyard any time you ride a PWC. If it flips and the engine remains running, you chance sucking water into your intake. If you flip and the lanyard remains connected, pull it as soon as you can.

Right the PWC
If you flip, swim to the rear of the ski and look for the manufacturer’s instructions on how to right the ski. The instructions are likely upside down so you can read them once the craft is upside down. The instructions explain which direction to turn the ski. Flipping the ski back over the wrong way could result in getting water in the engine. You would always want to keep the exhaust pipe down so water does not drain into your engine.

Now, rollovers are not common, especially with today’s larger and more buoyant machines. In fact, it takes quite a bit of effort to put one on its lid. Yet, as we mentioned, the smaller Rec Lite machines (ie. Sea-Doo Spark and Yamaha EX Series) grow in number, their lighter, more nimble platforms are more susceptible to such body roll thereby requiring a quick tutorial.

As demonstrated by the guys at JetRide.com, rolling a Yamaha EX Deluxe can happen with some accidental (or in this case, intentional) provocation; but righting the machine can be just as easy. Using the bond rail, sponson and intake grate as steps and handles, your own body weight can quickly flip a runabout right-side-up in a matter of seconds. Check it out:

 

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It’s not unusual for the Watercraft Journal to promote an upcoming PWC event – whether its a group ride, an endurance race, or the next action-packed closed-course race weekend, WCJ works to help spread the word for event organizers and fill in the missing information for potential participants. 

Today, however, we’ve got something a little bit different for you. Although PWCs are a part of the mix in this upcoming event, it could be said that they play a minor role – and WCJ is still 100% behind and in support of this event, and any similar events

This coming Saturday, June 7, Arizona Adaptive Water Sports will be hosting “Everyone Day” at Bartlett Lake. 

The event begins at 9 a.m. and runs through 3 p.m., and during that time, attendees will have a chance to water ski, wake surf, wake board, fish, kayak, go tubing, and more. What makes this outing stand out, is that it makes these activities available – and possible – for those who may never have had the chance to enjoy those activities before. 

Arizona Adaptive Water Sports – and similar organizations WCJ has noted in other states around the country – provide “opportunities for kids and adults with any disability to have life-changing moments on the water.”

By hosting, and facilitating adaptive sports, these organizations open up these activities – and the rewards, friendships, excitement and fun that go along with them – to a whole new population. 

A little snooping through AAWS’s social media feeds highlights some locations and names that many WCJ readers may be familiar with: along with outings at Bartlett Lake, the organization has hosted similar events at Crazy Horse Campground, where none other than Chris Hagest can be found volunteering for safety detail aboard his PWC. 

And speaking of volunteering, AAWS makes it easy to step up and take part, with a “volunteer” button right on their Facebook page, as well as more volunteering information and a full calendar of upcoming 2025 AAWS events, including an Abilities Expo (Sept. 5-7), Kayaking Antelope Canyon (Oct. 3), another Everyone Day – this time on Lake Powell (Oct. 4) and much more. 

Be sure to check out the AAWS website and social media feed for more information, including information on volunteering and registration as well as the full calendar of events.

If you’re looking for a few extras for your Kawasaki, there’s little doubt that Brisbane Kawasaki a surefire bet for finding great selection, better service, and can’t beat deals. 

It’s also a known fact that Brisbane Kawasaki’s Kspeed division is one of the most reliable go-to solutions for serious overhauls, upgrades and performance enhancements for your Kawasaki. But sometimes, you’re looking for less — and KSpeed and Brisbane Kawasaki still have you covered.

For example, this week, Brisbane Kawasaki is featuring KSPeed’s aftermarket hood strut for 2022+ Kawasaki Ultra hoods.

No longer will you need to contort your way into the storage area. Instead, simply change the strut over in less than 5 minutes and gain 4” to the gap opening, giving you much freer access to your front storage. 

As a bonus, the strut fits in the stock location without any modification.

Another featured product this week is KSpeed’s Ultra 300/310 Fuel Rail to suit 11mm OEM injectors. These high flow billet fuel rails feature a larger internal diameter that dampens the pulses and provides increased fuel volume, ensuring that your injectors never run dry. In addition, they yield better fuel distribution and ultimately increase the ability for greater horsepower. Your own fuel pressure gauge can be added onto the end of the rail if desired. Comes in a kit, for assembly by the end user — video instructions available on our youtube channel and step-by-step instructions are included with your shipment. 

Also, now back in stock, Brisbane Kawasaki is featuring the ultimate Supercharger Sound Enhancer, meticulously engineered to amplify the distinctive whistle noise of your supercharger at idle, creating an irresistible symphony of thrilling sounds. This Mk2 Atmospheric bypass trumpet fits all S/C Ultras – 2007-2024. With a satisfying whoosh when gently cracking the throttle and a supersonic “Psssht” when releasing the throttle under full boost, this enhancer is designed to captivate and impress.

Another recently featured deal at Brisbane Kawsasaki is this precision engineered KSpeed waste gate block-off made from aerospace grade aluminum. The kit is designed to block-off the inconsistent OEM waste gate.These factory BOV’s are designed to vent any boost pressure over 117KPA (16.9psi), over time they can lose tension and vent lower boost levels resulting in decreased performance. Suits all genuine Kawasaki Ultra 250/260/300/310 Intercoolers

This kit allows the supercharger to deliver its boost potential without premature pressure loss from a leaking waste gate. Kit comes complete with gaskets and blockoff cover for airbox. This is an essential upgrade when fitting higher boost pulleys to ensure you aren’t bleeding off your additional boost.

The installation is a short 5-10 minute process, and a genuine Kawasaki gasket, stainless allen key bolts & air box block off cap are included in package

Be sure to keep up with the KSpeed Facebook page to learn more about all the great products – big and small – available through the Brisbane Kawasaki store or online for those of you who can’t just pop by the store in Brisbane, Australia. 

It’s easy, in this and any sport, to focus the attention on the champions, the G.O.A.Ts , the ones that have made a name for themselves through their talent, ambition and perseverance.

It’s not always easy to remember that each one of those legends of the sport started out as rank beginners, and it’s hard to keep in mind, sometimes, that growing the sport has to be a priority … and the one sure way to do that is look to the younger generation.

With that in mind, The Watercraft Journal is always on the lookout for stories, events and activities that promote and encourage youth participation in the sport – and in the PWC lifestyle in general.

So when we noticed a post for an upcoming race that fit that bill to a T, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to throw some attention their way.

Nauti Waters’ Jettrim IJSBA Jr Nationals will be held on June 5 – 6 in Altus, Oklahoma, and Race Promoter Justin Smith has shared information on the event. You can read the full release below..

See the full list below, and be sure to keep an eye on the Nauti Water website and social media pages for up-to-the-minute schedules, promotions, regulations and information.

Making jet ski racing history once again, we are pleased to present the 2025 JetTrim IJSBA Junior National Championship. This exclusive Championship event has been designed to recognize the amazing talents of our youth jet ski racers in the USA and internationally.

The JetTrimIJSBA Junior National Championship will be held in Altus, Oklahoma on June 5 and 6, with the best youth racers in the sport on site to demonstrate their ability and skills of racing jet skis. Ages 8 to 17 will have designated, age-appropriate classes. Youth racers will be showcased on a newly built lake designed to host jet ski racing, and it is sure to be for an epic showdown on the water of this top caliber facility.

This championship will feature slalom, closed course racing competition for all youth ages 8 to 17/

Ages will be sorted by a tighter two-year spec grouped in 8-9 10- 11, 12-13, 14-15 and ELITE 16-17.

Athletes will compete in the following IJSBA classes:

Runabout Rec Lights (Sea-Doo Spark Yamaha EX)

Sport Spec (Seadoo HX/Yamaha Blaster1/Polaris Hurricane)

Ski Lites (Two-stroke Superjets and Kawasaki SX-R 800s)

Junior Women’s Ski Lites

Four Stroke Lites (2021+ Yamaha Superjets)

Junior Women’s Ski Four Stroke Lites

Ski Mod Lites (OEM and IJSBA approved aftermarket hulls with engines less than 1100cc)

Elite GP Ski (1500 cc OEM and aftermarket hulls, athletes must be qualified by Nautiwater to compete.)

The Elite Youth class has been designed to allow youth racers ages 16 and 17 the opportunity to compete by age with their peers in a class that is specific to the caliber of the racers

With the absence of the Elite 16-17 age group recognized, all our youth racers are forced to Amateur or Pro level classes, well outside of their age range too early, and we have failed to recognize the remarkable talent of that 16 to 17 age group that deserve to have designated classes for them.

Elite Ski GP will test the pilots on the aftermarket builds and puts the 1500 cc engine on the water to compete in this designated class to highlight youth racing at the top level of our sport.

We are welcoming the top racers that are, by age, qualified to race in ELITE if they are 16-17.

All proficiencies (Expert, Pro-Am, Pro) by age are welcome to the ELITE class.

This class is for you. There is a sweet spot of incredible talent in the 16- to 17-year-old ranks and we’re crowning the champion for that age bracket in Altus Oklahoma.

Over the two days of racing, youth racers will have opportunity to win USA National Championships in Slalom and Closed Course Racing — and then we will take the winners (Top 2) from each of the age classes, into a Grand Champion Round for the Overall Grand Champion Award. Racers could take home multiple titles, awards plates, prizes, and trophies

There are a few things you can count on this time of year:  warmer temperatures, longer days, insects and polen, graduations, weddings and PWC races and riding. 

Another thing you can count on come the end of May every year is the Yamaha Perfect Choice Sales Event — so it was little surprise when notification of the 2025 Perfect Choice sale hit The Watercraft Journal’s inbox.  

As always, the Perfect Choice Sales Event sweetens the pot on buying a WaveRunner by offering choice financing packages, warranty deals and more — so take advantage of the annual sale and get a WaveRunner (or two) while the deals are available.

Get one or two WaveRunners now with low APR financing and warranty promotions

First up is APR as low as 1.99%  APR for 24 months, then 15.99% or 18.99% thereafter. Included in this deal is 2 years of genuine Yamaya coverage or up to $800 as a customer bonus on select models. You can read the full details below (1)

If you’re looking to pace out those payments a little more, offer 2 may be more along your lines., with financing as low as 5.99% APR for 36 months, plus 2 years of genuine Yamaha coverage or up to $800 in customer bonuses on select models. See below for full details (2). 

Third choice for the Perfect Choice Sales Event is a 60-month special, still with added value in Yamaha coverage and bonuses. This deal revolves around an APR of 6.99% for 60 months, plus 2 years of Yamaha coverage and $8800 in customer bonuses. Details for this option can also be found below (3).

OFFER 1: Offer available on approved purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunner made on the Yamaha Credit Card issued by WebBank. 

Offer valid 4/01/2025 – 5/31/25. Account must be open and current to be eligible for this offer. 

Introductory 1.99% APR for tier 1 & 2 financing with minimum payments of 1.18% of the purchase price balance are effective for initial 24 months. After the 24-month introductory period, standard APR 15.99% or 18.99% with minimum monthly payments shall be due equal to the greater of 1% of existing balance plus standard interest charges based on creditworthiness, late fees and late payment amounts, or $25 until the purchase price is paid in full. Minimum interest charge $2 per month.

Promotional rates are based on creditworthiness. Not all applicants will qualify.

12-month factory limited warranty plus a complimentary 12-month Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.) Contract for a total of 24-months (2 years) of genuine Yamaha coverage. Complimentary 12-month coverage offered by Florida dealers is a Yamaha Extended Limited Warranty in lieu of Y.E.S. Available with approved purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunners. 

Offer valid 4/1/2025 – 5/31/2025. In Florida, Yamaha Extended Service is administered by Automotive Warranty Services of Florida, Inc. 175 W. Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604. License #60023.

Offer valid from 5/9/2025 – 5/31/2025. Bonus offered to consumer for the purchase of new select (unused and not previously warranty registered) models is up to $800.00 consumer benefit. Consumer benefit not redeemable for cash or cash equivalent. Offer cannot be combined with Genuine Yamaha Coverage Offer. Subject to dealer participation. See dealer for model details.

See dealer for qualifications and complete details. Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, U.S.A., dba Yamaha Financial Services, is an affiliate of Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. offering financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. 

OFFER 2: Available for well qualified tier 1 credit customers who finance through Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, U.S.A. Offer valid 4/1/2025 – 5/31/2025. 5.99% APR financing for 36 months at $30.42 per month per $1,000 financed regardless of down payment. Must take delivery from retail stock by 5/31/2025 on purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunners. Available on approved credit through Yamaha Financial Services. Not all buyers will qualify. Higher financing rates apply for buyers with lower credit ratings.

12-month factory limited warranty plus a complimentary 12-month Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.) Contract for a total of 24-months (2 years) of genuine Yamaha coverage. Complimentary 12-month coverage offered by Florida dealers is a Yamaha Extended Limited Warranty in lieu of Y.E.S. Available with approved purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunners. Offer valid 4/1/2025 – 5/31/2025. In Florida, Yamaha Extended Service is administered by Automotive Warranty Services of Florida, Inc. 175 W. Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604. License #60023.

Offer valid from 5/9/2025 – 5/31/2025. Bonus offered to consumer for the purchase of new select (unused and not previously warranty registered) models is up to $800.00 consumer benefit. Consumer benefit not redeemable for cash or cash equivalent. Offer cannot be combined with Genuine Yamaha Coverage Offer. Subject to dealer participation. See dealer for model details.

See dealer for qualifications and complete details. Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, U.S.A., dba Yamaha Financial Services, is an affiliate of Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. offering financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide. 

OFFER 3: Offer available on approved purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunners made on the Yamaha Credit Card issued by WebBank. Offer valid 4/1/2025 – 5/31/2025. Account must be open and current to be eligible for this offer. Promotional 6.99%, 8.99%, 14.99%, 23.49% APR financing with minimum payments of 1.98%, 2.08%, 2.38%, or 2.85% are effective until the purchase is paid in full. Minimum interest charge $2 per month. Promotional rates are based on creditworthiness. Not all applicants will qualify.

12-month factory limited warranty plus a complimentary 12-month Yamaha Extended Service (Y.E.S.) Contract for a total of 24-months (2 years) of genuine Yamaha coverage. Complimentary 12-month coverage offered by Florida dealers is a Yamaha Extended Limited Warranty in lieu of Y.E.S. Available with approved purchases of new (unused and not previously warranty registered) 2019 – 2025 Yamaha WaveRunners. Offer valid 4/1/2025 – 5/31/2025. In Florida, Yamaha Extended Service is administered by Automotive Warranty Services of Florida, Inc. 175 W. Jackson Blvd. Chicago, IL 60604. License #60023.

Offer valid from 5/9/2025 – 5/31/2025. Bonus offered to consumer for the purchase of new select (unused and not previously warranty registered) models is up to $800.00 consumer benefit. Consumer benefit not redeemable for cash or cash equivalent. Offer cannot be combined with Genuine Yamaha Coverage Offer. Subject to dealer participation. See dealer for model details.

Difficult, thankless work. Headaches. Stress. Ulcers.

And the chance to both be part of an iconic tradition, and make a difference in the future of PWC racing.

Sound like a job for you?

But wait, there’s more. This offer comes complete with a legion of back-seat drivers and an army of Monday morning quarterbacks.

But it also comes with the potential for high-level bragging rights, a gold star on your Curriculum Vitae and international acclaim.

Still not decided if your interest is caught?

This opportunity includes the chance to work first hand and up close with some of the most talented, successful and innovative athletes in the world of PWC racing.

However, it also includes the responsibility of attempting to organize, guide, regulate and sometimes chastise those same athletes.

If you haven’t run for the hills yet, and you can meet the exacting requirements of competing for this opportunity, you just may talk your way into shepherding the future of the IJSBA World Finals.

In a press release issued by IJSBA Executive Director Scott Frazier last week, IJSBA is seeking proposals for the production of the annual World Finals beginning in 2027. Frazier details the qualifications required, at a minimum, to be considered, and outlines some of the envisioned selection process.

Although there is no deadline set, as of yet, for proposal submission, Frazier makes it clear that “sooner, rather than later” is a good guide on submission timing,

For details, read the full press release below:

The International Jet Sports Boating Association formally announces the solicitation of request for proposals for the production of the annual World Finals beginning in 2027. IJSBA’s World Finals is the premiere personal watercraft event for the global industry and showcases athletes, hobbyists, manufacturers, and aftermarket industry companies uniting together to showcase the accolades of the sport. IJSBA has enjoyed decades of uninterrupted success with World Finals with the 2025 installment marking the 44th consecutive year. IJSBA has maintained several different production relationships over the years and this opportunity is primed for qualified producers to take this event into the future.

Qualified producers will present a curriculum vitae demonstrating a track record of producing successful motorsports events with significant experience in events taking place on the water. Proposals should contain a knowledge about Personal Watercraft and the proven ability to manage a budget well in excess of six figures. Preferred candidates will express an international perspective and a desire to maintain the event in the traditional location of Lake Havasu City, Arizona. Producers are not required to submit proposals for the entire event. Proposals may be limited to the racing segment of the event only. Likewise, proposals may include a hybrid relationship with IJSBA and continuation with the local grounds production team that has provided the infrastructure and local management for the event for decades.

IJSBA very much encourages interested parties to begin inquiries now so that their efforts could be frontloaded by working along side of the current production teams learning about both the strengths and obstacles associated with this very unique and magical event. The IJSBA World Finals has been a very special and well enjoyed event that can be very rewarding to a passionate producer. For more information, please email [email protected]. To reiterate, this RFP is for event production beginning in 2027 which will be the 46th World Finals.

Fun. Adrenaline. Adventure. Speed.

When most people think about PWCs, chances are, one (or more) of those words come to mind. And you can bet that the marking minds behind every PWC manufacturer and aftermarket innovator keep that idea front and center – after all, ramping up that enthusiasm, energy and attitude that is part and parcel of the PWC lifestyle – whether you’re racing or just out on the lake having a good time with friends.

So hearing that Sea-Doo is making a concerted effort to encourage riders to prioritize safe and responsible behavior on the water may seem counter intuitive.

However, that is exactly the message being rolled out in a strong media blitz that has both those new to the PWCs, and sport veterans taking another look at how keeping reasonable safety precautions a high property can not only help make sure you’re around for another ride tomorrow, it can be part of your routine onboard behavior without being a wet blanket on all that enthusiasm, energy and attitude.

Building on the foundation of BRP’s Responsible Rider Program, Sea-Doo is now launching the Responsible Rider Masterclass Water 101 Module.

Tips covered in the Masterclass include Plan Smart; Heads Up; Protect the Playground; Ride Safe; and Respect Fellow Riders.

You can learn more by following along on Sea-Doo’s safety video.

To learn more, read the full press release below:

VALCOURT, QC, May 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – As summer is right around the corner, Sea-Doo, iconic brand of BRP Inc. (TSX: DOO) (NASDAQ: DOOO), is inviting all boaters and personal watercraft (PWC) riders to prioritize safety on the water all season long. Sea-Doo takes safe riding seriously and, through BRP’s Responsible Rider Program, the team wants to empower all riders to ride responsibly regardless of whether they are on the ocean, a lake or a river. To do so, Sea-Doo is announcing the launch of the Water 101 module of the Responsible Rider Masterclass and sharing tips to ensure a safe and fun summer on the water.

Sea-Doo is Encouraging All Riders to Prioritize Safety and Responsible Riding This Summer. (CNW Group/BRP Inc.)

“As a leader in the personal watercraft industry, we have a responsibility to mobilize the community and encourage responsible riding. Sea-Doo wants to ensure that riders can enjoy personal watercraft for years to come,” says Jérémi Doyon-Roch, Global Marketing Director, Sea-Doo, Ski-Doo and Lynx at BRP. “As the season begins, it is our goal to offer riders the tools and resources needed to enjoy days on the water safely with family and friends.”

The Responsible Rider Masterclass, Powered by BRP
BRP and Tread Lightly! launched the Responsible Rider Masterclass in February of 2025 with its first module, Snow 101. With the boating season approaching, the Water 101 module is now live and aims to equip boaters and PWC riders of all levels with the knowledge they need to ride responsibly and lead by example. The short and free online training features Sea-Doo Ambassador Daniel “Aqua Dan” do Nascimento and is based on BRP’s three Responsible Rider pillars: riding etiquette, environment and safety.

5 Tips to Ride Responsibly All Summer Long
While personal watercraft and pontoons are sound and reliable machines, following some basic safety practices drastically reduces the likelihood of preventable incidents occurring on the water. Here are just a few of the many tips to keep in mind:

Plan Smart: Before you ride, make sure to check local laws, be prepared for the weather, and download a marine app like BRP GO! to find safe places to discover. Follow the rules of the water and slow down in restricted speed areas.

Heads Up: Always stop before checking your phone or GPS. Keep it sealed in a dry compartment while underway. Don’t mix recreation with drugs and alcohol and be aware of fatigue.

Protect the Playground: Clean, drain and dry your watercraft after every ride to stop invasive species. Stay away from protected zones such as coral reefs, and be mindful of not disturbing marine ecosystems. Bring a mesh bag for trash and leave every place better than you found it!

Ride Safe: Always wear neoprene shorts under your personal floating device (PFD) to stay protected on the water. Make sure your gear is properly sized and that your PFD is PWC specific and Coast Guard-approved. Attach the emergency engine cut-off lanyard to your PFD.

Respect Fellow Riders: Keep a safe distance from other boats and PWCs, and yield to non-motorized watercraft. Pay attention to noise levels in residential areas.

Learn more about personal watercraft safety here.