The term Jet-Ski is actually a registered trademark for a personal water craft made by the Japanese company Kawasaki. Jet skiing has now come to mean the use of a variety of personal water crafts, including the Jet-Ski itself and comparable water craft such as Sea-Doo (manufactured by the Canadian company Bombardier) and WaveRunner (manufactured by the Japanese company Yamaha).
A personal water craft may be accurately described as a sea scooter or water scooter. It is built much like a scooter and operates on the water. The rider sits or stands on a personal water craft instead of sitting inside it, as one does in a boat.
The number of persons a personal water craft can accommodate depends on the model. Some models of personal water craft can accommodate one rider only. Other models can accommodate up to four riders. Some personal water crafts allow the rider to stand while riding. Other personal water crafts are designed so that the rider is seated.
Jet skiing is a highly enjoyable activity. It allows riders a considerable amount of freedom in exploring a lake or sea, and it is easier to operate than a motorboat. Unlike learning to operate a scooter on land, learning to jet ski is very easy.
Jet ski racing is a popular activity at a number of lakes and beaches. Lake Havasu in Arizona is a favorite among jet ski racers and riders. The World Jet Ski Finals are held every year at Lake Havasu.
Apart from its recreational uses, jet skiing is a great aid to lifeguards, marine biologists, and law enforcement officers. Jet skiing has become popular because personal water craft are fast, easy to handle, and affordable. Also, personal water craft are small and have no external propellers, so they are safe to use in areas where there are plenty of swimmers and marine life.
In 1990, the Clean Air Act was amended to require regulation of fuel emissions from personal water craft. New regulations complying with the amendments were passed in 1996. Since then, makers of personal water craft have made changes to their craft's engines, resulting in a decrease of fuel emissions of up to 75%. In some areas, such as Lake Tahoe, only personal water craft that meet the 1996 regulations are allowed.
With the new regulations, jet skiing has become an even safer and more environment-friendly activity. In addition to its safety, jet skiing is easy, and extremely enjoyable. The next time you're at a lake or at the beach, try jet skiing and discover for yourself how much fun it can be.
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