A personal watercraft (PWC) vehicle is an inboard vessel driven by a jet-pump and is able to carry up to three people. The craft can be operated standing, kneeling or sitting, and provides a popular pastime for many water sport enthusiasts.

Today’s manufacturers spend quality time investing in research and development to meet consumer demands. Today’s personal watercraft are designed and built to pull skiers and offer storage space. Advanced engine technology that is environmentally friendly makes the new generation of PWCs the perfect choice for water sport enthusiasts.

Until recently, personal watercrafts have been equipped with the same two-stroke technology that powers many existing outboard marine watercraft motors. Many of the next generation PWCs boasts state-of-the-art four-stroke engine designs along with fuel injection capabilities.

PWC manufacturers haven’t stopped short of award-winning designs either! They’re able to meet and exceed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for sound and environmental emissions requirements. Industry experts predict that present day models emit 90 percent fewer emissions than models manufactured in 1998.

The impact of PWCs on the environment is impressive, placing these types of watercraft on the list of environmentally friendly motorized boats operating on the water.

Air and Water Quality

As a result of EPA regulations, PWC hydrocarbon and NOx emissions for 93 kW engines have seen some of the most impressive pollution reductions to date. This has also lead to further development of new technologies that are environmentally friendly.

Benzene and other carcinogens deposited into bodies of water by PWCs are responsible for killing large quantities of plankton in recreational waters across the country. As a result, there are a number of areas where PWCs have been banned.

As long as there are bodies of water to enjoy, people will continue to seek fun-filled excursions with friends and family. Watercraft technology is here to stay and the need for marine specialists will continue.

Colin McLean writes about marine specialist program training at WyoTech. Find out how WyoTech can help put you on the path to success.