Launching a PWC

Many first time personal watercraft owners struggle when it comes to launching the vehicle. The process itself is complex, with multiple steps and things that can go wrong. This guide from Anderson Powersports Lake Havasu City can teach you the right way to launch your PWC.

Practice in Advance

One area in which many new PWC owners struggle is lining the trailer up with the dock. We recommend finding an empty lot and setting up some cones to approximate the launching ramp. This will allow you to practice lining up your PWC trailer without the risk of danger or distraction. 

Arrive Prepared

The last thing you want is to tie up the launching ramp and inconvenience other boaters. That’s why you should pull over before you hit the launching ramp and get as much ready as you can before you take a spot in line. Don your life jacket, attach the top rope if you’re using one and check over your PWC one last time. This is a good time for additional preparations like applying sunblock, setting up the killswitch, and inserting the drain plug should be done now. You should also loosen up the winch straps and safety chains to allow your PWC to float once you’re in the water. Test your throttle as well. 

Release Your PWC Into the Water

You don’t want to stall out on the ramp, so start your PWC’s engine now. If several people are trying to use the launching ramp, get in line and wait patiently for your turn. When it’s time to launch and you have everything aligned, back up your trailer until it’s submerged enough that the PWC starts to float. Park your vehicle. If you’re launching your PWC alone, pull the watercraft out and tie it up so that it can’t float away while you find a parking spot for your tow vehicle. If you have help, one of you can stay with the PWC while the other parks the tow vehicle. 

Pull Away From the Dock

Don’t hit your PWC’s starter until you’ve reached water at least three feet deep. This will ensure that the intake doesn’t suck up debris and get clogged. Slowly maneuver away from the dock, giving other people as much space as they need. Once you’ve hit open water and there’s no obstacles in your way, hit the throttle. 

Shop PWCs at Anderson Powersports Lake Havasu City - North in Lake Havasu City, Arizona. We’re proud to serve communities like Topock and Desert Hills, Arizona. We also offer financing, trade-ins, test rides, servicing, and parts ordering.