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Guide to Personal Water Craft

a man riding a wave on a surf board on a body of water

In the world of seafaring vessels, the sheer amount of watercraft is staggering. In terms of small-scale watercrafts, there are still an amazing variety in style and purpose.

All three brands described below are types of personal watercraft (PWCs), but with varying histories and attributes that are solely their own.

We decided to stitch together a guide on the various types of watercraft. In these descriptions, we’ve made clear the differences between them, their uses, and their optimal purposes. For more questions on which might be the right craft for you, reach out to Sea the City at (866)-462-4565 for information and booking.

What is a Jet Ski?

Jet skis were originally manufactured by Kawasaki, a Japanese vehicle brand. Jet skis have been in use for decades as a great way for more than one person to take an adventurous ride on the water. Extremely stable, jet skis were originally the watercraft designed for standing while riding, while others were designed only for seated rides. As of models manufactured after 2011, this is no longer true.

What is a WaveRunner

The WaveRunner, a brand of watercraft manufactured by Yamaha, was a watercraft originally designed for seated riding. While newer models are designed for either standing or seated riding, the tradition of WaveRunners are largely for seated riding.

We use exclusively 2017 and 2018 models of the Yamaha EX WaveRunner machines, but you’ll hear us refer to them as jet skis, as people generally will call all these PWCs jet skis. Learn more about which is right for you: wave runner vs jet ski.

What is a Sea-Doo?

A water-faring version of Ski-Doo snowmobiles, the first Sea-Doos were manufactured in 1968 as the first sit-down personal watercraft. Paving the way for a whole revolution of watercraft, many of the models we know today pay homage to the Sea-Doo.

Wrapping It All Up

Regardless of the model, you use with us, or on your own PWC adventure, general safety guidelines are always recommended. Firstly, do not go faster than you believe you can handle. Second, don’t get too bold with tricks.

Our highly-trained instructors will give you all the on-site know-how to fully take advantage of the best features of our machines. From beginner to expert, Sea the City is the best way possible to experience an incredible view of New York City from the Hudson River. Give us a call today to ask us more about our equipment, and when to book!

Ready To Ride With Us?

Our Jet Ski Tours Launch Just 10 Minutes from Manhattan.

  • MOST POPULAR!
Starting at $169

Sea the City Jet Ski tours offer a unique way for tourists and New Yorkers alike to get up close to the sights and attractions on their very own Jet Ski. Book online today!

What you’ll see: Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges, Governor’s Island, Ellis Island, Freedom Tower, Janes Carousel, One Brooklyn Park, South Street Seaport, Empire State Building, and more!