Tips and advice - Jet ski insurance and Personal watercraft insurance

Towergate Mardon has been providing boat insurance for over a quarter of a century, so we are well placed to advise on how to help reduce the risk of claims and provide tips for trouble free boating.

Here are some key tips:

General tips for Jet ski and Personal watercraft

• Check your Jet ski or Personal watercraft engine and fuel before every trip
• Remember to tell others where you are going
• Make regular checks on tides and weather before going out on your Jet ski. Conditions can change rapidly
• Carry buoyancy aids on your Jet ski
• Make sure your Jet ski is well maintained and its’ engine is serviced regularly
• Carry flares and notify someone of your expected return time when putting out to sea
• Wear engine cut off lanyards, when fitted
• If possible and applicable store your Jet ski in a secure building and avoid remote locations

Trailer towing tips for Jet Ski and Personal Watercraft users

• Always check the condition of the trailer especially if the trailer is used in salt water. Always check that brakes and cables are not seized or kinked. Always check tyre pressures and conditions including the spare. Check the lighting board and connections. Check the condition and length of breakaway cables. Ensure that the jockey wheel works and can be secured
• Make sure the towing vehicle is powerful and heavy enough for the Jet ski or Watercraft that is being towed. The total trailed weight should not excess 85% of the vehicle’s kerb weight
• Make sure you have clear vision beyond the Jet ski/ Watercraft, fit mirror extensions if required
• Ensure that the tow ball is lightly oiled
• Check the lights and brakes
• When loading the Jet ski/Watercraft onto the trailer make sure that the weight distribution is right as this could lead to snaking problems. Make sure it is secured to the anchor points and check for loose items on the deck or cockpit
• Once on the journey stop and carry out a check on the load a few miles into the journey just to ensure that straps don’t need tightening. The speed limit is 50 mph on single roads and 60 mph on dual carriageways
• Fit a wheel clamp to your trailer whenever it is unattended
• Fit a hitch lock to your trailer as well as a wheel clamp

For more information on this jet ski insurance policy please go to the details and documents section.