Jet Ski HistoryTHIS ARTICLE ON THE HISTORY OF JET SKIS WAS CREATED BY JET SKI RENTALS OF DESTIN FLORIDA, YOUR SOURCE FOR DESTIN JET SKI RENTALS.

A British company, by the name of Vincent, introduced the Amanda Water Scooter in the 1950’s, but the product was unsuccessful in the market. Shortly after, Clayton Jacobson invented a similar personal water craft that stemmed from Vincent’s water scooter. Powered by an outboard motor, Jacobson built the machine on the idea that the operator of the vessel would stand on the PWC and be able to ski across bodies of water.

Amanda Water Scooter

Clayton Jacobson

In 1965, Jacobson’s prototype jet ski was made of aluminum. By 1966, he had switched from an outboard motor to an internal pump-jet and began making his jet skis out of fiberglass. The snowmobile company, Bombardier, bought the idea from Jacobson, and attempted to mass produce personal watercrafts for average consumers; they failed. After regaining patent ownership, Jacobson sought out the renowned motorcycle company, Kawasaki.

Aluminum Prototype

Kawasaki Introduced their first model of Jet Skis in 1973. It was the first of its kind to allow users to water ski without having to use a boat. This of course did not come without challenge. Riders had a tough time staying aboard their PWCs, especially when operating in wavy waters.

Bombardier returned to the market by introducing the Sea-Doo. It later became the most sold personal watercraft on the market. Today, some models can exceed speeds of 60mph, and are far more fuel efficient than ever before. Jet Skis have gone from a leisure pastime and hobby, to a social form of water transportation, and now people even practice it as a competitive sport!

Believe it or not, some jet ski enthusiasts are able to do jumps, spins, and even flips on their personal watercrafts! Organizations like Pro Watercross put on tournaments that draw large crowds to the America’s most beautiful beaches to watch jet skiers. Each tournament is in a different location, and the tours feature amateurs and experienced sportsmen.

Many people prefer to rent Jet Skis to play around on. There are many places to choose from when renting a watercraft, if you happen to be near water that is. Whether it’s to enjoy a day out on the water or to compete against others, jet skiing is a fun pastime enjoyed by many!