How Fast Do Jet Skis Go?
Jet skis let you carve through the water, whether that's a freshwater lake or the open waters around southern Florida. But how fast can a jet ski go, and what should you look for to find a jet ski toward the higher end of the average jet ski speed?
Since 1958, our team has been answering the community's questions about jet skis and helping them find the right skis for their hobbies, interests, and family. Whether you are looking for a mellow, leisurely ride or want to reach max acceleration, keep reading to learn more about how fast do jet skis go? — and how you can get to those top speeds.
What Speed Is Best for You?
Different personal watercraft (PWC) models come in a wide range of top speeds. One of the fastest models you can buy right out of the store reaches approximately 69 miles per hour, though some models are equipped with powerful engines and can manage a speedy 72 mph—to go even faster, you'll have to modify your Jet Ski. However, for most options, expect to stick between 40 and 65 mph, depending on the manufacturer's speed limiters and engine power.
That top range may be disappointing if you think about it in terms of driving a car. But there are a lot of reasons why that range can feel like plenty of speed:
- Modifying your jet skis can invalidate the warranty, so getting extra power with aftermarket mods may not be worth it.
- The US Coast Guard generally prefers jet skis stay under 65 mph. Local law enforcement may also change that preference into a stern demand depending on where you're riding.
- If you're a casual rider, the upper-speed range may already be a lot to handle, especially near crowded shores.
Depending on your skill level, experience, water conditions, and likely passengers, you can decide where you want to spend most of your time in that range of 40-65 mph. No matter what you pick, there's a model that's the perfect fit for it.
How Fast Are Stand-Up Jet Skis?
How fast can a jet ski go if it's a stand-up model? Stand-up skis have a slightly lower top speed of approximately 50 mph. The fastest model on the market is the Kawasaki SX-R 1500, with a top speed of 62-63 mph, depending on water conditions.
Top Speed of Luxury and Performance Jet Skis
Even with more powerful engines, luxury and performance jet skis (aside from modified performance models) have max speeds of 69 mph or less.
Kawasaki Jet Ski
Kawasaki makes excellent jet skis for fast, casual, or novice riders. This is the signature manufacturer of high-quality jet skis, and they've been in the business for over 50 years. The company designs and develops a wide range of models for solo riders at top speeds or multiple passengers with roomy seating. A popular model is the Jet Ski Ultra 310, a three-passenger ride that reaches max speeds of 67 mph thanks to its titular 310 HP engine.
Yamaha Waverunner
Yamaha Waverunners are high-performance PWCs that are built to last. Yamaha releases new models yearly, including roomy three-passenger models for casual riders and vacationers. Beginners can get their feet wet on the EX Waverunner, which goes 50 mph, or you can opt for the signature model, which tops out at 67 mph. Find your preferred model here.
South Florida Jet Ski & PWC Financing
Fast-moving jet skis can come with a price tag upwards of $10,000 or $15,000. But with boat and jet ski financing options from Jet Ski of Miami, you don't have to let your available cash dictate which model you buy. We offer easy financing for approved shoppers. Finance your new jet skis or PWC with just a few hours and a down payment, and then be out on the seas seeing how fast jet skis go.
Browse Florida's Best Selection of Jet Skis and Waverunners
When you're looking for the right jet skis for hitting the Miami waves, stop by Jet Ski of Miami. We have a wide selection in our inventory and offer convenient financing options. Swing by today to look around, or reach out online to learn about our selection.
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