Not sure whether you should buy a jet ski that you've been eyeing online? They're certainly an investment, but a jet ski is a great option if you want a new way to get out on the water without buying a power boat. 

Jet skis have been around since the 1970s, and nowadays, there are various models out there to choose from, regardless of your ability.

However, before jumping into our list of reasons to buy a jet ski, we first want to cover some of the common queries prospective new jet ski owners often have. Take a look at the information below on the different types of jet skis and the factors to consider when buying new or used. 

Jet Ski, WaveRunner, or Seadoo?

Jet ski is likely the term you've heard the most, as it has become the widely used name for all three of the above—although it started off as the name for just one model from Kawasaki. When shopping around online, the general rule of thumb is that the Seadoo sold by Bombardier is usually slower but more affordable, so it’s great for beginners. 

WaveRunner is a wide range of jet skis sold by Yamaha, catering for both beginners and experienced jet skiers depending on the model. To add to this, you're also likely to hear people referring to all of the above as PWCs, or personal watercrafts. Kawasaki, Bombardier, and Yamaha are some of the top producers of PWCs.

It can feel a little confusing, but as long as you check the characteristics of your jet ski before you buy, you'll find the right jet ski for you.

Should I buy a new or used jet ski?

If you haven't already looked into jet ski prices, you'll need to figure out whether you want to buy a new or used model. Both will provide you with all of the benefits on our list, so the preference one way or the other is entirely down to you.

Buying a new jet ski

The price of a new jet ski can vary quite dramatically, right up to tens of thousands of pounds, depending on what you're looking for. You'll need to consider things like where you'll be using it, where you'll be able to store it, and how you'll maintain it. You can find more information on buying a new jet ski in this Powersport blog.

Buying a used jet ski

If you want to save some money on the initial price, buying a used jet ski could be a great option. You can also save further money by buying a used jet ski in the winter, as prices usually go down. The caveat to this is that you'll have to ensure you brush up on what to look for when buying a used jet ski so you don't incur too many extra maintenance costs if the jet ski develops issues further down the line. 

8 reasons to buy a jet ski

There are many benefits to buying a jet ski, from improving your health to being easy to manoeuvre and maintain compared to other PWCs. If you've been considering whether to buy a jet ski, we’ll assume you’re already aware of some of the benefits that having one can offer; that's why you're tempted! 

Take a look at our list below to see if there‘s anything you hadn’t considered (you can also use these to justify the purchase to your friends and family later).

   1. Jet skis are a cheaper alternative to a power boat

Power boats can cost anywhere from £15,000 to £700,000 in the UK, so if you're looking for something you can zip around the water on, a jet ski is definitely on the cheaper side (practically a bargain).

   2. Easier to manoeuvre

Both smaller and lighter than the average boat, jet skis are easier to get in and out of the water and transport to and from your home. They're also easier to manoeuvre once in the water, making cutting about on the waves a breeze.

   3. Easier to service and maintain

The cleaning and upkeep of a jet ski is simpler than that of a boat due to its size. With some time and effort on your part, you could even learn to carry out some of the servicing yourself once you have the right tools.

   4. Join the jet ski community

Particularly if you'll be heading out to some of the UK's best locations for jet skiing, you'll likely meet some fellow jet ski enthusiasts. There are even jet ski clubs you can join both on and offline, where you can discuss the best places to go and get advice from seasoned jet skiers.

   5. Improve your fitness

Using a jet ski can be a workout! It can help improve your cardiovascular system, build muscle, and improve your balance and coordination. Operating a jet ski will require you to use muscles across your body to stay balanced and cruise around the water, making it a fun way to burn calories.

   6. Stress relief

Jet skiing can also be good for your mental health. Not only is it another way for you to exercise, which releases endorphins, but it also gets you outside in good weather conditions and can help improve your sleep quality.

   7. The adrenaline rush

It's no secret that water sports offer an adrenaline rush; that's why they're so popular! 

   8. Safety features

If safety concerns are holding you back from buying a jet ski, you'll be glad to know that modern jet skis come with features to help you stay safe. These include safety cords that cut off the engine if you fall off, and water jet propulsion engines rather than propellers, so you don’t have to worry about ropes tangling underneath.

Before you take your jet ski out on the water for the first time, it's worth reading up on some safety tips and regulations to ensure you're fully prepared to enjoy your ride.

Jet ski accessories

As part of costing up your jet ski purchase, you might want to look at the available accessories out there to get the most out of using your jet ski. From first aid kits and bungee dock lines to waterproof speakers and coolers, there's lots to consider when planning a safe and enjoyable jet ski trip.

Read our blog for more on jet ski accessories to get you started.

Specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats

Decision made? Off out to buy a jet ski? You might also want to consider specialist jet ski insurance once you’ve done so.

Specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats can cover your jet ski up to the value of £20,000 against theft, accidental or malicious damage, and salvage charges. 

You can also build your own bespoke policy to ensure you have the right cover that suits you best.

Find out more about specialist jet ski insurance through Insure4Boats by following this link or get a quick quote here.