BOATsmart! USA Knowledge Base
Module 01 - Boating Basics
Definitions: Parts of a Personal Watercraft
- Handlebars and throttle:
- The operator steers the Personal Watercraft (PWC) by turning the handlebars and applying throttle.
- Safety lanyard (kill switch):
- This is a rope or cord that attaches the kill switch to the operator. If you fall off the PWC, the lanyard will release and shut down the engine.
- Seat:
- This is the area where the operator and passengers sit.
- Jet intake:
- The ‘jet intake’ area sucks in water and then passes the water through a high-speed impeller. Avoid being anywhere near the jet intake area—loose items such as clothing and long hair can be sucked into the jet intake by the force of the water and the rotating impeller.
- Jet thrust nozzle:
- High-powered water travels through the jet thrust nozzle to propel the PWC forward. Remember, never start the engine or operate the PWC if a passenger is positioned behind the jet thrust nozzle.
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