Over the past 10 years, the Costa del Sol (“Sun Coast” in English) has become a major destination for English speakers, both as tourists looking for a relaxing vacation and as expats seeking to start a new life in one of the world’s most paradise-like destinations. While the Spanish province of Málaga is most popular among Brits, American and Australian travelers have also made their mark on the region. While PWC sports are a growing phenomenon in Spain and across the globe, there’s no denying the impact this international influx has had in making the region a rising hotspot for all kinds of watersports.
In fact, the city of Benalmádena, Málaga is rapidly becoming one of the must-stop locations on the Spanish PWC circuit. Just this past weekend, on the 5th and 6th of April, the beach “Malapesquera” hosted more than 50 PWC racers competing in the Spanish and Andalusian championships. Saturday featured the Circuit race, while Sunday hosted the Rallyjet category. Access to the event was completely free for spectators, making it an exciting activity for tourists and locals alike to experience the growing PWC culture in the Mediterranean.
Along with the beach’s ideal location and the generally tranquil waters of the Mediterranean, Benalmádena is especially well-suited to host these kinds of events thanks to its recreational port, which is built to attract watersport enthusiasts and powerboat fans of all kinds.
Be sure to check out the original write-up (in Spanish) from Area Costa del Sol to learn more about the growing PWC scene in Spain!
At first blush, it’s pretty natural to want to size up Sea-Doo’s 325-horsepower ACE engine alongside Belassi’s 400-horsepower 1.6L 3-cylinder. Heck, even we at The Watercraft Journal originally went that route when outlining this very story, and rightly so: Sea-Doo’s latest centrifugally-supercharged 3-cylinder has been the darling of racers, tuners and performance enthusiasts since it’s reveal in late 2023.
Yet, what many are discovering is that the 325 ACE is operating close to the engine’s peak output, and that fact alone, is not by accident; Belassi’s Sergiy Borakovskyy explained to WCJ, “Rotax and Yamaha engineers have achieved remarkable engineering feats, delivering exceptional products that balance cost and power within stringent design guidelines.”
Constrained by so many factors, manufacturers like BRP are forced to develop new products within tight legal and financial confines. “In contrast,” Borakovskyy continued, “our lower production volumes afford us greater flexibility in engine design, allowing us to create high-performance designs with minimal cost differences compared to high-production optimized designs.”
This flexibility permitted Belassi to develop a turbocharged 4-stroke that produces considerably more power while working far less than the current 325 ACE. The Belassi 400 Turbo powerplant produces its peak output of 400-horsepower @ 8,200rpm – some 75 ponies more than Sea-Doo and at 50-less rpm. But as we continue, you’ll discover this to be anything but an apples-to-apples comparison.
The Belassi’s open-loop, water-cooled 1,602cc triple cylinder comes in with 28cc’s beneath the Sea-Doo, achieved by operating with an identical bore size (100mm) but slightly less stroke (68mm vs. 69.2mm). The loss in total stroke length is made up in piston dome height and chamber quench, upping the Belassi’s cylinder compression to 9.1:1, significantly higher than the ACE’s 8.45:1.
And don’t worry, the increased compression is no issue for Belassi’s closed-deck engine block design. More rigid and offering greater cylinder support, the aluminum block experiences negligible shift during casting and less detrimental harmonics at high rpm. Forgoing a ductile sleeve, each cylinder is coated in Nickel Silicon Carbide (NSC). Unlike popular coatings like Nikasil, NSC shows no visible cross-hatching after being honed.
Of course, more compression is only a part of Belassi’s secret to producing more power at lower rpm with less displacement. The big secret is efficiency. Unlike superchargers that are spun from the engine’s drive, Belassi’s 400 Turbo requires zero parasitic draw to spool up the turbo. Rather, a uniquely cast, compact exhaust manifold is not only water-injected but a “natural water lock” for optimum temperature regulation.
See, keeping turbo temperatures low is a tricky job and is handled three ways: First, as the Belassi’s dry sump oiling system maintains engine oil pressure – even in high speed turns – it also forces oil through a heat sink to regulate temperatures. This same oil is pumped into the turbocharger for lubrication, keeping oil temps consistent ensures the Garrett turbo’s efficacy at generating boost.
Secondly, the exhaust spooling the turbo’s positive side is rapidly-cooled before reaching the end of the manifold. Integrated into the manifold is an electromagnetic wastegate, regulating boost pressures at all times with a single Lambda port. Lastly, a custom two-stage intercooler features dual cores and shorter charge tubes, bringing down intake temps resulting in a denser, more powerful intake charge at the throttle body.
Per Belassi, “All [of these] components are working as one in a compact design that allows a better turbo response with minimal turbo lag and a great balanced exhaust pulse.” The final result, as we’ve detailed here, is a consistent and proven 400-horsepower; but that’s not where this story ends:
Belassi needed the 400 Turbo to not just perform but to last. “Our primary goal is to provide a solid foundation for new and innovative marine products, regardless of their design,” Borakovskyy added. This meant the engineers were told to push the Turbo 400 further, stating, “We confirm that the fuel system is capable of matching the Garrett charger, which, on paper, can deliver the airflow required for 550 horsepower.”
And no, this result did not come from exotic parts upgrades or pumping in high octane race fuel. This was simply by unrestricting the Belassi’s intelligent engine control system that otherwise, safeguard the engine from “less experienced” riders. This same software increases boost at low engine rpm for superior acceleration either from a halt or pulling through the apex of a turn.
Ultimately, Belassi would prefer that its flagship powerplant – the Turbo 400 – remains to be seen as its own creature. Certainly, similarities between it at the 325 ACE can be drawn between the two, but even Belassi’s own CEO Christopher Wilkinson cautioned against making such comparisons:
“We understand that direct comparisons to the 325 are inevitable. However, [a] more relevant comparison would be the investment required to upgrade a Sea-Doo or Yamaha with a turbo system, including all necessary fuel and control system upgrades to meet OEM specifications and sustain 400 horsepower.”
While the Turbo 400 is anything but simple the formula isn’t over-complicated. Groundbreaking innovations abound in this engine just as much as plain old experience; and that combination makes for a sturdy foundation for a world class performance marine engine that doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel, just brilliantly improve upon how well it works.
As we move into spring, many of our readers are getting excited for those first days back out on the water. For most of us, that means lake days or coastal cruising—but there are always exciting ways to shake up our usual PWC routines. In a recent YouTube video, the channel Miami Living 305 highlights one of the more challenging and rewarding PWC activities: long-distance trips.
The video documents a 120-mile (193-kilometer) journey from Miami to Key West, all on the back of a Sea-Doo. In addition to stunning footage of the Florida coastline, the video dives into all the nitty-gritty details involved in completing such a demanding ride. From mid-ocean refueling stops to losing equipment to the waves, it’s a fascinating look at the realities of a long-distance jet ski trip.
Along the way, the rider highlights various islands, beaches, and landmarks passed throughout the journey. It’s particularly enjoyable to see the wide variety of sights along the way—from cruise ships to houseboats to several breathtaking islands. There’s even a spontaneous jet ski race that adds a touch of unexpected fun.
While most of our readers might not have the chance to take this specific trip themselves, the video is definitely worth a watch for anyone looking to find inspiration for their own long-distance PWC adventures, wherever they may be. Miami Living 305 does a great job of showing everything that goes into planning and executing a ride of this scale—while encouraging viewers to challenge themselves and try something new this PWC season.
Cycle Springs Powersports, a long time supporter and sponsor of The Watercraft Journal, has stepped firmly into the spotlight of this year’s PWC racing scene and season as a presenting sponsor of the P1 AquaX 2025 race season.
Standing alongside season-long presenting sponsor and fellow Clearwater entity Short Block Technologies (SBT), Cycle Springs, and TWL Powersports out of Wisconsin, will serve as the presenting sponsor for specific rounds during the P1-AquaX season.
Cycle Springs Powersports – part of the Dimmitt Automotive Group – will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Amateur AquaX Class in Clearwater Beach, FL (August 22-24) and in St. Petersburg, FL (September 5-7).
Photo: RonnyMac.com
In addition to claiming the title as “the world’s largest Yamaha dealer” of both WaveRunners and Jet Boats, Cycle Springs Powersports is also an authorized dealer for Kawasaki and Sea-Doo, as well as Suzuki amd Polaris – meaning they also move plenty of motorcycles, ATV’s, Side-by-Sides and Slingshots. Additionally, Cycle Springs is the nation’s only powersports dealership with a LifeTime Engine Warranty and Money Back Guarantee on extended warranties.
P1 AquaX will kick off their 2025 season in June when they return to New Orleans for the first time in nearly twenty years. The P1 Powerboats and JetSkis will be racing on Lake Pontchartrain on June 27-29, with the season playing out in Kissimmee / St Cloud, Florida on July 11-13, Sheboygan, Wisconsin on Aug. 8-10, Clearwater, Florida on Aug. 22-24, and St. Petersburg, Florida on Spet. 5-7.
You can read the full press release announcing Cycle Springs Powersports, TWL and SBT as the 2025 P1 AquaX Presenting Sponsors below:
P1 AquaX proudly announces Short Block Technologies (SBT), Cycle Springs Powersports, and TWL Powersports as new Presenting Sponsors for the upcoming racing season.
Longtime partner Short Block Technologies (SBT), based in Clearwater, FL, has stepped up as the Presenting Sponsor for the entire 2025 P1 AquaX season. SBT is the world’s largest aftermarket supplier of personal watercraft parts. AquaX and SBT have developed a strong relationship over the years, proving to be a company that truly cares about its customers and delivers a high level of service to the personal watercraft community.
Additional presenting sponsors for specific rounds during the upcoming race season include Cycle Springs Powersports and TWL Powersports & Marine. Cycle Springs Powersports will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Amateur AquaX Class in Clearwater Beach, FL (August 22-24) and in St. Petersburg, FL (September 5-7). Cycle Springs Powersports is part of the Dimmitt Automotive Group, a family-owned franchise dealer group that has served the Tampa Bay community for over 100 years. “We are excited to continue our partnership with Cycle Springs Powersports and excited that they have put together an amazing support package for our Amateur AquaX racers; their investment in our up-and-coming riders proves this sport series is for everyone,” shared Michelle Petro, Director of Operations for P1 USA.
Cycle Springs Powersports, the most recent addition to the Dimmitt Organization, takes pride in its innovation and quality, serving local powersports enthusiasts for over 30 years. “We are looking forward to the upcoming race season. We are excited about sponsoring the amateur series this year. This circuit represents the future of AquaX racing, and we are honored to be able to contribute to the future growth of the sport,” shared Nick Waddell, Cycle Springs General Manager.
TWL Powersports & Marine will also be a new Presenting Sponsor of the P1 AquaX Championship in Sheboygan, WI (Aug. 8-10). TWL is the leading power sports vehicle dealership serving Sheboygan and Oshkosh, WI.
AquaX is the fastest-growing personal watercraft championship in the world, offering two categories of racing, Enduro and Sprint. These categories are divided by rider skill and experience into Pro and Amateur. This year’s AquaX five-race series opens in New Orleans, LA, June 27-29, followed by races in Kissimmee/St. Cloud, FL, Sheboygan, WI, Clearwater Beach, FL, and St. Petersburg, FL. For more information, visit: P1AQUAX.COM
Pro Watercross, under the leadership of AJ and Jennifer Handler, is celebrating 30 years of racing this year, and marking the anniversary with a new racing format and some impressive announcements.
First, looking at the race schedule for Pro Watercross’ 2025 season, it continues with last year’s significant shift from tradition where Pro Watercross kicked off a 6-7 round season in early May with Pensacola and Panama City beach races. While there has been a slow drift away from that intensive and wide-ranging National Tour schedule, last year’s three-race Triple Crown series – repeated this year for the 2025 season – shows Pro Watercross settling into a new era and a new format.
One thing that will be familiar to many long-time Pro Watercross participants and fans is the support from Liqui Moly – this year’s title sponsor. Liqui Moly banners have been seen flying at Pro Watercross race sites for years, including standing behind Pro Watercross’ 2023 journey to Lake Havasu for the Liqui Moly Pro Watercross International Cup.
Last year’s introduction of the Triple Crown season format featured scheduled races at Sebring and Keystone, Florida, capped off by a final showdown at long-time tour favorite stop, on Lake Hartwell in Georgia. The Keystone site was later changed to Tavares, Florida.
Also new in 2024 was the implementation of a new starting system for Pro Watercross. As announced in March of last year, “The traditional rubber band start will be replaced by a cutting-edge lighting system, making it a safer and more effective race experience. This innovative approach eliminates the potential for rubber bands to wrap around racers’ necks during the start, a known safety concern.”
In early March of this year, Pro Watercross revealed the schedule for their 30th Anniversary season, with a shift to an all-Florida lineup kicking off in Sebring at the end of April, moving to Keystone Heights in mid May and closing out in Tavares in early June. .
Pro Watercross is proud to celebrate 30 years of excellence and growth in the watercross community. As the dominant force in the sport, Pro Watercross has revolutionized watercross racing, bringing thrilling competitions and fostering a passionate community of athletes, fans, and enthusiasts.
Pro Watercross is proud to be the oldest watercross promotion company in the United States, with a legacy that spans over three decades. As the second oldest watercross sanctioning body in the country, we’ve been a cornerstone of the sport, evolving from a small regional race series into the longest-running national tour in U.S. history.
Since our humble beginnings, we have remained committed to serving the watercross community, our sponsors, host cities, and, most importantly, the incredible individuals who have been instrumental in helping Pro Watercross achieve success year after year. Together, we have created a dynamic and thriving sport that continues to captivate racers and fans alike.
April 26-27 | Sebring, Florida; May 17-18 | Keystone Hts, Florida; June 7-8 | Tavares, Florida
Waters Edge Photography
Late in March, Pro Watercross updated the class list for the 2025 Triple Crown to include 17 classes (see list at end of article), and announced a new race registration savings program and some prize money announcements.
Double Round Weekends: Double Round Weekends: Experience twice the action with double round weekends, offering racers more opportunities to compete and fans more thrilling races to watch. In the 1990s, Pro Watercross pioneered the “Double Round” weekend format, with Saturday featuring one round of racing and Sunday hosting the second. In honor of our 30th anniversary, we’re bringing back this beloved tradition, allowing for even more intense competition and fan excitement.
Reduced Classes: Pro Watercross has updated and reduced its class structure to create more opportunities for racers of all skill levels to compete. These changes ensure greater competition and fun for everyone!
$30 Per Class Per Round: $30 Per Class Per Round: Competitors must enter one class at full price and sign up for additional classes at just $30 per class per round. It’s the perfect opportunity to test your skills in multiple categories without breaking the bank!
$30 Weekend Membership: For only $30, racers can get a weekend membership, granting them access to all the thrills and action of a weekend Pro Watercross event.
Onsite Cash Discount: Enjoy a discounted rate when you sign up online or onsite by paying with cash!
Prize Money: Up to $1,750 per weekend… If a Pro-Am or Sport Stock classes have 10 or more riders, the following contingencies will be paid: 1st – $500, 2nd – $250, 3rd – $125
As March rolled into April, Pro Watercross announced that a familiar name to many in the PWC world – Miami Jet Ski & Watercraft Service – was not only sponsoring the Sebring stop on the 2025 series, but would be hosting a BBQ dinner for racers – and almost anyone in PWC racing knows that BBQ from Sebastian Lezcano is simply not to be missed.
Hosting a BBQ dinner for all racers on Saturday night…Miami Jet Ski & Watercraft Service is proud to sponsor the Liqui Moly Triple Crown Tour on April 26,27, 2025, in Sebring, Florida. As dedicated supporters of the sport and its competitors, Miami Jetski is showing its commitment to the racing community by hosting a BBQ dinner for all racers on Saturday night.
This sponsorship underscores Miami’s passion for growing the sport and supporting both seasoned pros and up-and-coming talent. Their involvement ensures a welcoming and competitive atmosphere, reinforcing the camaraderie that makes jet ski racing special.
“We’re excited to be part of this amazing event and to give back to the racers who make it all possible,” said Sebastian Lezcano of Miami Jet Ski & Watercraft Service.
Don’t miss an action-packed weekend in Sebring, with Miami Jet Ski making it even better! Join in the fun
Waters Edge Photography
In the latest announcement from the Pro Watercross series, the advantages of decades in the industry, and the connections forged and cemented shows itself as CBS Sports signs on to broadcast the Pro Watercross 2025 season.
We’re thrilled to announce that CBS Sports is officially on board to broadcast the Pro Watercross Triple Crown Tour this year! This partnership is a game-changer for the Liqui Moly Pro Watercross Tour, bringing our high-speed, adrenaline-packed action to a wider audience than ever before. For Racers – More exposure, more sponsorship opportunities, and the chance to showcase their skills on a national stage. For Fans – Bigger, better coverage, bringing every intense turn, jump, and battle straight to your screen!
Get ready for an unforgettable season of world-class racing! Stay tuned for broadcast schedules and event details.
025 LIQUI-MOLY Pro Watercross Triple Crown Classes: Beginner Runabout Box Stock; Beginner Ski Stock; Junior Ski Stock 10-12 Yr; Junior Ski Stock 13-15 Yr; Runabout Stock; Ski Stock; IROC Stock; IROC1100; Ski 4-Stroke Stock; Ski 4-Stroke Stock-Superjet; Novice Sport Stock/Spec; Vintage Ski – Run What You Brung; Women’s Ski 4-Stroke; Pro-Am Ski GP; Pro-Am Ski Stock; Sport Stock/Spec; Freestyle.
It’s a boat. It’s a plane. No, it’s… well, we’re not really sure what it is.
It’s kind of like Goldilocks couldn’t make up her mind between a jet boat and a jet ski, and hired Geppetto to work his magic and, well, you get the idea…
But, jokes aside, what “it” is, is the MiniJet Cub – all of 11 ft from tip to transom, a 90hp Rotax ACE 900 4-stroke engine, a 140 mm pump with fixed trim nozzle, bench seating for 2, Hydro-Terf EVA foam decking, an integrated LCD screen and more.
The Cub, is only one of several models from Minijet – which, in addition to a series of turnkey boats, also offers DIY kits that revolve around “selecting and purchasing a ‘donor’ PWC with the engine and driveline you want to morph with a Miniet Hull Kit.
For the turnkey models, in addition to the Cut, MiniJet offers the Frontier, with standard features like a; 12 degree deadrise angle, reinforced reverse chines, lifting strakes, integrated rear transom flotation, pump protection bars, and an improved delta pad bottom that make the Minijet Frontier perfect in aerated whitewater and shallow rivers alike; the Rover, with a wider nose and front deck area providing more storage space for gear, or ample space for a front mounted fishing seat and casting station, as well as larger rear engine cover accommodates extra seating and storage space; and the Defender, the largest model at 16 feet.
And, just to ratchet up some instagram-worthy cuteness, there is the MiniJet A2-6 – a micro jet boat kit with an integrated intake assembly suited for a wide variety of engines, two protective intake grate options, rear transom flotation to increase displacement and buoyancy, reverse chines and lifting strakes for sharp handling – all at 6 feet from tip to transom.
Check out the company website to find out more about the MiniJets, purchase one for yourself, or talk with company representatives about becoming a MinJet retailer.
To find out more specifically about the MiniJet Cub, follow along as company officials give a rundown of the model’s features and abilities in this detailed video.
2025 certainly seems to be the year to have a good time down on the bayou.
Ok now that we’ve trotted out the most basic – and requisite – cajun phrases, we’ll get down to business. Just this week, The Watercraft Journal received the official press release for P1-AquaX’s inaugural New Orleans Powerboat Grand Prix.
Racking up several “firsts” all at once, P1’s first race of the 2025 season is also its first New Orleans Powerboat Grand Prix, and though, like most, we’ve heard the mutterings of racers missing – pro-actively – the surf-racing pandemonium provided by frequent series-starter Daytona, there is also a good deal of excitement being bandied about in social media circles about the New Orleans venue.
WCJ will be providing further information as the event gets closer and we learn more details of the foray into Louisians, where, as Remy said, “This is the Big Easy. Folks have a certain way o’ doin’ things down here.”
You can find out more details in the full press release below
The inaugural New Orleans Powerboat Grand Prix, presented by Harvey Gulf International Marine, Councilman Hans Liljeberg, Jefferson Parish Council District 5, and Visit Jefferson Parish, is set to take place June 25-29.
Councilman Hans Liljeberg, shared, “We are proud to host the inaugural New Orleans Powerboat Grand Prix right here in District 5. This event not only promises thrilling racing and family-friendly activities but also provides a unique opportunity to boost our local economy. We look forward to welcoming visitors from across the nation for an unforgettable weekend in Jefferson Parish during our Bicentennial year!”
The event is the season opener for the P1 Offshore Triple Crown race series held in various cities across the United States, featuring four days of high-energy fun and excitement. The weekend includes a boat poker run, kilo run speed trials, a parade of boats, and a party in the pits featuring vendors, great local food, live entertainment, and an opportunity to see power boats up close and meet the race teams. High-speed racing occurs on Saturday and Sunday (June 28-29). Thomas Covington from Powerboat P1 states, “We are thrilled to kick off our racing season in Metairie, LA, and we anticipate fierce competition as teams push their limits to claim the trophy at this prestigious race.”
The event site is located on the levee between Bonnabel Boat Launch and Bucktown Harbor Park. Admission is free. However, VIP Hospitality tickets will soon be available for the best viewing area of all the racing action. Shane Guidry, CEO of Harvey Gulf, expressed, “We are enthusiastic about the partnership with Powerboat P1 to deliver an exceptional event at Lake Pontchartrain. I had the opportunity to attend two of these races, and the energy and enjoyment they bring is an unparalleled experience.”
RonnyMac.com
Net proceeds from the event will benefit the P1 Marine Foundation, with proceeds earmarked to benefit Bucktown Harbor Park & Marina Foundation and the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation. After launching the P1 Offshore Triple Crown powerboat race series in New Orleans, races will be held in Sheboygan, WI, and St. Petersburg, FL.
For more information and updates on the event, visit: P1OFFSHORE.COM
When it comes to buying a new PWC, the sheer number of options can make the decision-making process feel overwhelming. While having a wide variety to choose from is great for enthusiasts, even the most dedicated PWC expert can struggle with certain key questions. One of the biggest considerations for buyers is whether to go for a supercharged or non-supercharged model—an issue WatercraftZone tackles in an informational video.
The 2023 video, titled “Should You Buy a Supercharged or Non-Supercharged Jet Ski? | Watercraft Zone,” compares the performance of a supercharged 2022 Yamaha FX SVHO to its non-supercharged equivalent. Using highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment in their VBox, they put both models to the test. The video also breaks down the pricing differences, making it useful not just from a technical perspective but also for potential buyers weighing their options.
While the 2022 models may no longer be the latest, the supercharged vs. non-supercharged debate is still highly relevant. WatercraftZone clears up key differences right away, explaining that non-supercharged PWCs offer better fuel economy, while supercharged models prioritize acceleration and speed.
Before diving into the data, the video provides a thorough comparison of the Yamaha FX SVHO and Yamaha FX HO, covering riding styles, engines, display screens, ride plates, weight, and jet pumps. Then comes the performance testing and data analysis, the most valuable part of the video, as the results apply to a wide range of Yamaha PWCs. We won’t spoil the final verdict here, so be sure to check out the full video on the WatercraftZone YouTube channel to get all the details!
We’ve covered WatCon’s John Zigler before for his fascinating collection of vintage PWC, but that’s just the beginning of what’s available on the Watercraft Talk YouTube channel. His channel is packed with engaging and useful videos designed to teach viewers the ins and outs of PWC care, maintenance, and upgrades, making it a valuable resource for any watercraft owner looking to expand their knowledge.
One great example is the recent video titled “Lapping a Flywheel to a Crankshaft: 2-Stroke PWC Jet Ski WaveRunner Engine,” which covers an important yet often overlooked aspect of PWC maintenance. John walks viewers through each step of lapping a flywheel on a sample engine, whose crankshaft was particularly dirty before the process. The only material required for this task is regular valve grinding compound, which can be found at any automotive store, making this a simple and stress-free way to care for your PWC’s engine.
Throughout the video, John’s advanced knowledge of PWC engines shines through as he clears up common misconceptions about these components and explains the process in great detail. The results speak for themselves—the difference before and after lapping the crankshaft is night and day!
If you think it might be time to lap the flywheel on your PWC or just want to explore the wealth of knowledge available on the WatCon channel, be sure to check out John’s videos on YouTube now!
Late yesterday, speaking beachfront from Mar-a-Lago, President Donald Trump has announced an Executive Order decommissioning the U.S. Coast Guard – a move recommended late last week by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, as Musk’s efficiency experts cited millions of dollars in wasteful spending on what Trump termed the “Cub Scouts of the Military.”
Of note to PWC owners, the dismantling of the Coast Guard will eliminate the US Coast Guard Boating Safety Division, which has traditionally been responsible for marine vessel safety checks, PFD requirements, safety courses and BUI regulations, among other watercraft-related laws and regulations, as well as navigation rules.
Trump announced that, in keeping with efforts to reduce government overreach, the majority of marine safety practices will now be voluntary, however, owners of all motorized vessels must register their PWC with the newly created U.S. Safe and Beautiful Waterways Taskforce.
All registered vehicles will be required to display the official Task Force registration code, and must carry approved safety equipment, including mandatory walkie talkies and American-made first-aid kits. All watercraft must also fly a Task-force approved visibility enhancement flag of no less than 3’ x 4’, consisting of a safety-red background emblazoned with a white, reflective MAGA symbol to enhance visibility in both daylight hours and at night. During any watercraft operation after dusk and before dawn, the visibility enhancement flag must be lit by the provided battery-operated mini-spotlight.
According to new U.S. Safe and Beautiful Waterways Task Force Commander Chase Elliot, implementation of the safety equipment requirements will go into effect on April 15, while Task Force Registration Chief Kid Rock advised The Watercraft Journal that a new website would be launched within the week to allow marine craft owners to register their vessel online.
The Watercraft Journal will continue to monitor these new requirements and the impact of the elimination of the U. S. Coast Guard Boating Safety Division, and will provide pertinent updates as new changes to policy are announced.
For more information, or to pre-register your PWC, visit the Task Force website.
Over the past 10 years, the Costa del Sol (“Sun Coast” in English) has become a major destination for English speakers, both as tourists looking for a relaxing vacation and as expats seeking to start a new life in one of the world’s most paradise-like destinations. While the Spanish province of Málaga is most popular among Brits, American and Australian travelers have also made their mark on the region. While PWC sports are a growing phenomenon in Spain and across the globe, there’s no denying the impact this international influx has had in making the region a rising hotspot for all kinds of watersports.
Along with the beach’s ideal location and the generally tranquil waters of the Mediterranean, Benalmádena is especially well-suited to host these kinds of events thanks to its recreational port, which is built to attract watersport enthusiasts and powerboat fans of all kinds.
