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Jet Ski vs. Waverunner: Which One is Right for You?

jet-skiing-in-new-york

The differences between a Jet Ski and Waverunner may not be immediately obvious, but they do provide some important distinctions. First off, the driving position of these two seacrafts is different, and this will determine what style is right for you.

Jet Ski versus Waverunner

The main difference between a jet ski and a waverunner is the driving position. A Jet Ski offers a more adventurous position than a Waverunner. That’s because unlike the Waverunner, you’ll most likely be standing up while piloting a Jet Ski. These Personal Watercraft (PWC) are also faster than the competition. Although there are Jet Skis available that allow you to sit down, they’re not nearly as fun as the standing models. A Waverunner, meanwhile, allows you to sit down during your entire ride. These PWCs also sometimes come with enough room to accommodate two people, which does make them better for couples and families that wish to enjoy the water from a seated position. They also boast impressive speed capabilities.

Fun Factor

This is where the rubber meets the road for most people. The Jet Ski is undeniably a blast, especially for experienced riders. But if you’re planning to tour the New York City Harbor waterways with someone under the age of 18, a Waverunner is the way to go. That’s why we utilize Waverunners, though we call them Jet Skis for simple name recognition. Besides which, Waverunners can be just as much fun as traditional Jet Skis, and they happen to be a safer, more comfortable ride.

Hop on and Go!

Another perk of the Waverunner is that they’re easier to simply hop on and go. And, as long as everyone wears the proper protective gear, they’re less likely to cause minor injuries. Learn more about how to drive a jet ski.

jet skis in New York on the water

Check out Sea the City in New York

To learn more about how you can see the New York City Harbor from a Waverunner, contact us today. We’ll happily answer your questions and can book you for a jet ski tour!

Our Jet Ski Tours Launch Just 10 Minutes from Manhattan.

SEA THE HIGHLIGHTS (1-HOUR JET SKI TOUR)
  • MOST POPULAR!
Starting at $179

Join us for the most exciting hour in New York City. Experience an amazing, fast paced jet ski ride through New York Harbor while getting up close to the Brooklyn Bridge, Lady Liberty and other sights that have made the Big Apple famous. 

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!

SEA IT ALL! (2-2.5 HOUR JET SKI TOUR)

Starting at $319

Conquer all three rivers, while taking in a unique perspective of the 5 boroughs of New York City and The Statue of Liberty. This 2 hour, 32 mile (51 km) jet ski adventure around Manhattan Island will leave you breathless. 

What you’ll see:

  • East River: Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges, Empire State Building, United Nations, Governor’s Island, Ellis Island, Janes Carousel, One Brooklyn Park, South Street Seaport and the famous Pepsi Cola Sign.
  • Hudson River: Freedom Tower, The Vessel, George Washington Bridge, and New York City Skyline 
  • Harlem River: Yankee Stadium, Spuyten Duyvil Bridge, Harlem River Bridge, and the Columbia “C”