When you envision the lives of the rich and famous, odds are you picture them skipping across the waves on a jet ski (which, incidentally is a brand name, but, like ‘Kleenex’, has become synonymous with any personal watercraft, or PWC).

Combining the speed and fun of a motorcycle with the freedom of the ocean, it’s no wonder owning a personal watercraft is on most of our wish lists.

But, do you need to be a celebrity – or on holiday – to enjoy the thrill of owning a personal watercraft?

Let’s dive into what it takes to put one of these fun machines in your garage.

How Much Does A Personalised Watercraft (“jet ski”) Cost?

Unfortunately, like most things, the price of jet skis has gone up in the past year or so, but you can still get a good deal by buying second-hand or waiting for a dealer special.

In general, you can expect to pay about 3 grand for a used craft, and from $5,000 up to about $20,000 for a new model.

Of course, you can always hold out until 2024, when the new Supermarine MM01 “Hyperjet” will be released. You just have to save up a cool half a million.

Should You Buy A New Or Used Jet Ski?

Like any major purchase, there’s a huge drawcard to buying used – you save money. But, equally, you could be buying someone else’s problem.

The key is to do your research. Look for a craft that’s done 30 hours or less per year. Any more than is called “high hours” (AKA wear and tear.)

Don’t just go by age, but maintenance record – an older, well-looked-after craft can be in better shape than a younger one that’s been thrashed.

New models guarantee you full power, come with factory warranties, and can be modified with manufacture accessories. That said, PWCs are prone to depreciation, losing about 2 grand as soon as you leave the dealership.

Check Out These Tips On Where To Look For New And Used Boat Sales

Do You Need A License To Ride A Jet Ski In Australia?

Like most rules in Australia, laws around this vary from state to state.

The Northern Territory offers the most freedom, with no age limits, licensing or craft registration.

At the other end of the spectrum in South Australia, riders must be 16 and hold a boat license. The same age limit applies in Queensland, where riders must obtain a certificate via completion of a course.

In the middle lies New South Wales, where you must be 12, hold a boat licence, and pass a PWC test; Victoria, where you must be 16 and pass a test, and WA, where you’ll need a Recreational Skipper’s Ticket, and do 2 years on your P-plates from age 14.

In Tasmania, you’ll need to pass a practical endorsement on your marine licence.

The ACT doesn’t have its own boat licensing scheme, but you must hold a license from elsewhere – and you can’t jet-ski on Lake Burley Griffin.

Here’s The Complete Guide On How To Obtain A Boat Licence In Australia

Where Are The Best Spots To Ride A Jet Ski In Australia?

Australia’s spoilt for choice when it comes to water, so it’s no wonder jet ski sales keep jumping by about 12 percent each year.

But where’s everyone riding them? Let’s break it down state by state.

In Queensland, head to the Whitsundays, Paradise Point on the Gold Coast, Trinity Inlet in Cairns (watch for crocs) and the man-made playground, Lake Maroon, Scenic Rim.

Looking south, head to Lake Macquarie or The Hawkesbury River for freshwater fun, and the waters around Newcastle and Wollongong for saltwater adventure.

In Victoria, Wilson’s Promontory, taking in Five Mile Beach is great, as is Lake Eildon at an impressive six times the size of Sydney Harbour!

Flanked by three oceans, you can – technically if not practically – circumnavigate the whole of Tassie. If that’s a bit much, head out on Tamar River, Launceston, or a trip around Bruno Island.

South Australia boasts the lower reaches of The Murray, like Lake Alexandrina and Lake Albert, spacious Mannum, and the open ocean thrill of Port Willunga.

Popular spots in Western Australia include Rottnest Island, the canals of Mandurah, and of course, Swan River.

Finally, if you like the top end’s lack of laws, hoon around Manson dam, south of Darwin.

Can You Finance A Jet Ski?

Absolutely!

Finance is a great way to own something today you know you’ll be able to afford tomorrow.

A jet ski can be financed in the same way as a car, boat or caravan. In many cases, you can borrow the full amount needed for the purchase with no deposit required.

You just have to decide if you’d like a secured loan, which offers a lower rate or a personal jet ski loan, which you can even use to upgrade your current craft.

Australia’s best-reviewed finance broker, Credit One Finance, can help you through the process without hassle, and get you a great rate on your new toy. Credit One have access to 40+ top lenders in Australia so you can feel confident they will find a good deal on your jet ski loan.

Read The Jet Ski Financing Guide

Where To Buy A Jet Ski In Australia?

While dreaming about hitting the water on your weekend is fun, shopping for a craft can feel a bit daunting.

First, work out what kind of PWC you want – sit down, or stand up? Leisure or recreation? How much power?

Once you have that sorted, decide on new or used. If you’re going new, check out some showrooms, and boat expos, which sometimes offer great on-the-day deals.

If you’d like to search online, we recommend visiting boatsonline.com.au, where you’ll find a huge range of boats and jet skis.

What Are The Most Popular Jet Ski Brands In Australia?

Three main brands dominate the Aussie market: Kawasaki (from whom we get the name jet ski), Sea-Doo, and Yamaha.

It’s been a while since a challenger brand entered the market, although Narke Electrojets, the world’s first electric jet ski, launched to applause, and Eclassboats in Kiama is working on replacing PWC petrol motors with electric ones, so it’s safe to say concern for the planet is shaking up the industry!

Provided you do your homework, secure the right finance, and commit to upkeep, owning a jet ski need not be a pipe dream – in fact, they can be quite a good investment in your family, fitness and fun!

If you’re looking to upgrade your caravan, camper, boat or 4WD, get a 30 second quick quote on finance with CreditOne – Australia’s best rated finance broker.