It’s normal for any watercraft to take on some water, especially in rough conditions. From the bailer tubes to the foam inserts, there are features designed to help with the water that comes in.
However, many owners wonder about worst-case scenarios. For instance, what happens if your watercraft begins taking on a significant amount of water? Would it ultimately end up at the bottom of the lake?
This post is intended to explore that question. We’ll dive into understanding the implications of water entering your craft, address related safety issues, and outline steps you should take if water intrusion occurs.
While a jet ski is designed with foam inserts to prevent it from fully sinking, it can still be compromised if water fills its hull. These inserts provide buoyancy, keeping the craft afloat even when water is present. For example, if water enters the jet ski, the foam in the front will make it stay nose-up, as most of the weight is in the rear.
What to Do If Your watercraft Takes On Water
A craft that was sunk is not the end of the world and can often be brought back to life, though it’s not going to be cheap.
If the watercraft was only flipped over, then read this post instead.
If you have insurance, get them involved:
- If your PWC sunk and the water got above the engine, then there is water in your engine that needs to be removed.
- If it’s ocean water, it needs to be removed as quick as possible. It’s best to let the repair shop or dealership handle this for you. Your engine may need several oil changes and this is why it gets expensive, all the water needs to be removed!
Don’t Start The Engine
Do NOT try to start a sunken watercraft as there is water in the engine and that will damage pistons, cranks and more. Water doesn’t compress like air, and starter motors are strong!
Read more on what to do here.
The Main Reason
The main reason for sinking is because people forget to put in the drain plugs. Before putting your machine in the water, make sure to check and put in the drain plugs.
Don’t confuse them with the flush ports, which are in a different place. The drain plugs are at the lowest part of the hull, and there might be one or two of them.
A damaged hull, bolts, or connections can make you take on water. Also, a damaged waterline can do the same.
To check for leaks, keep it on the trailer with drain plugs in, partially in the water, remove the seats, and observe for water coming in.
If no leaks, idle the engine on the trailer and monitor for water.
Then, If no leaks, go for a real a ride, and watch for water coming in. When coming back, some water is acceptable, but gallons is a problem.
Excessive Wight Or Waves
Excessive weight or waves can capsize a watercraft, even in no-wake zones. Avoid overloading!
Normal riding on a lake or river with a modern 4-stroke engine makes flipping over difficult, especially with one person. It’s harder with large modern vessels but easier with smaller Rec-Lite models.
Flipping can occur due to excess weight or hitting a wave incorrectly.
In the ocean, it’s a different beast and large waves can capsize larger boats. Know your riding abilities and don’t be stupid!
