Jet Power

It ain't rocket science

While you might feel like you've hit warp factor 10 in these powerful vessels, jet propulsion is as close as your local outdoor shop. Both high-powered jet boats and motorcycle-style PWCs operate on the same principle - the vessel is propelled by water shot out the back of the craft - no propellers involved. Originally designed to navigate New Zealand's shallow, fast-flowing rivers, today's jet-powered watercraft are found world-wide and can take you almost anywhere. And unlike powerboats, jet boats can stop fairly quickly by reversing the engines in a trick called the “Hamilton Turn.”

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Jet boats

Jet Boats

Another wide-ranging powerboat, jet boats can be a modest 12 feet or reach lengths of 60 feet or more. Fast and maneuverable, they can be speed-of-light cruisers for the fastest day trip ever. But be warned, these boats become difficult to steer when the motor cuts out. And though they're capable of wending through shallow waterways, their sensitive engines can quickly get clogged with weeds, silt, mud and litter.

Prices range as widely as the models, with small jet boats starting at $15,000 and climbing to well over a million. Used models start at about $3,000 and rise accordingly.

Personal Watercraft (PWC)

WaveRunner, Jet Ski or Sea-Doo - they're all personal watercraft (PWC). Designed to hold a lone water-ranger or a posse of four, these high-powered water broncos are straddled as you would a horse, and are just as fun to ride. Powerful enough to tow a water sporting buddy, PWCs provide an affordable alternative to a powerboat.

Like most toys, these high-octane water scooters tempt many owners to take risks like playing “chicken” with other Jet Skis. And the results are often deadly. While riding the waves, keep an eye on what's going on around you. Although life jackets are mandatory, they can't guarantee your safety - most PWC fatalities come from the impact, not drowning.

While used PWCs start at $1,000, new models range from $4,500 to $12,000 depending on seating capacity. One-seaters can be as short as six feet while the four-person variety can be 14 feet long. Unlike boats, even the biggest PWC is trailerable.