What Determines The Direction A PWC Will Travel?

Personal watercraft (PWC) are great fun to ride and can be enjoyed by both novice and experienced riders. But before you hop on your PWC and hit the open water, it’s important to understand the forces that determine where your PWC will travel.

Wind

The direction a PWC will travel can be affected by the wind. If the wind is blowing across the surface of the water, the PWC may drift in the direction of the wind. This effect can be especially noticeable if the PWC is being operated in a sheltered body of water with little wind protection.

Currents

Currents can have a significant effect on the direction a PWC will travel. If the PWC is being operated near a river, lake, or any body of water with a significant current, the PWC may drift in the direction of the current.

Steering and Throttle

The driver of a PWC is able to control the direction the craft will travel by using the steering wheel and throttle. By manipulating the steering wheel, the driver is able to make the PWC move in whatever direction they wish up to the point of the PWC’s maximum speed. Similarly, with the throttle, the driver is able to accelerate, slow down, and even reverse the direction of the PWC.

Conclusion

The direction a PWC will travel is determined by a variety of forces including wind, currents, and the driver’s manipulation of the steering wheel and throttle. Before embarking on a PWC journey, it’s important to factor in these variables so you can successfully navigate the open water.