There are so many options when it comes to purchasing a PWC. Do you want a Sea-Doo PWC, a Wave Runner or a Jets Ski? The brands, options and price ranges are endless. Here is a quick guide to help you narrow your search based on what it is YOU are looking for in your next PWC purchase.
How Many Passengers?
In most cases, this is the MOST important question to answer before you even consider looking at PWC options. This will significantly impact and weigh-in on your decision making process. You are going to need different options, tech and capacity parameters depending on how many passengers you have.
If riding alone and enjoying the open water in solitude is your thing, speed and maneuverability may be your #1 goal! In this case, you will only need a PWC vehicle capable of one passenger. A shorter, sleeker PWC model may be perfect for you! This will combine higher speed with agility to give you just the tempo you’re looking for on the water.
Do you want to bring passengers along for the ride, either on the PWC or towing behind it? MORE passengers means a BIGGER PWC! The vehicle needs to have the space to seat multiple people. The engine must also be strong enough to handle all that weight of your passengers and you. This simply means you’ll need a PWC that is bigger and bulkier leading to a less speed-oriented machine which means it won’t go as fast and will be harder to handle. It is simply a give and take situation in this case. Most PWC models fit three people (including the driver). But some models can fit four people. Again, this will drastically narrow your purchasing options when buying a new PWC.
Are you looking for NEW or Pre-Owned?
You now have a good idea of the type of PWC you want. Next, you can narrow down your options by choosing to consider new or pre-owned models. Both strategies offer unique advantages and disadvantages.
A new PWC allows you to buy the vehicle at the top of its game and you will know, as the sole owner of the PWC, that there were no previous problems with the machine. Keep in mind that it will never run as good as it will those first few years! You get a PWC model that will be free of blemishes, markings, scratches, dents, coverups and more. It also will be covered under a factory warranty, which protects you in the event of manufacturing issues. With a new PWC, you’ll also get the latest technology and cutting-edge features and upgrades (if purchased). But the drawback is a new PWC will be much more pricey and you’ll have to factor in state and local feeds depending on what state you live in.
A used PWC offers its own benefits as well. The biggest one, of course, is the money you will save…in theory. You’ll save a huge amount when opting for a used PWC. You can find well-maintained models that are like-new but a fraction of the cost. Keep in mind this research could be pretty time consuming and you’ll need to make sure that whoever you are purchasing the PWC from is honest and transparent about the history of the machine and it’s previous maintenance history. The downside is that you won’t be under warranty unless you purchase the PWC from a dealership and they offer a third party extended warranty that is NOT through the manufacturer. If anything happens, you’ll have to pay out-of-pocket for repairs and we all know that is NOT fun.
Features
Another key thing to consider is everyone’s favorite part! You now have to decide whether you want any special features or you just want to keep it basic. Certain PWC models offer plenty of upgrades and perks to boost the quality of your ride. A charging bay keeps your phone running smooth. Add on a cooler and other amenities. Keep your valuables secure in waterproof storage. Crank your favorite songs on a Bluetooth-enabled sound system. Look into the possible amenities and make sure you find a PWC offering what you want.
With all of these options to consider, you now have plenty of pre-purchase knowledge to think about and research what PWC is PERFECT for you!
Now get out on the water!
