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While media coverage often highlights unsafe jet ski practices, Club Marine’s insurance statistics show that the vast majority of personal watercraft (PWC) riders are, in fact, committed to safety. The data reinforces that, despite the attention on reckless behaviour, most riders follow safety guidelines and responsible boating practices.
Club Marine Insurance CEO Tim Wiles says that, since 2021, fewer than 1 per cent of the company’s PWC-related claims have resulted from an injury to another party, while only 2.8 per cent involve damage caused by a PWC.
“As Australia’s largest recreational boating insurance provider, Club Marine provides cover for a significant number of PWC riders,” Mr Wiles said. “Overall, the safety profile is excellent when we look at how many liability claims we receive where the driver has been negligent."
“Of course, there’s always the exception of a small minority whose unruly behaviour causes issues, upsets other waterway users and attracts negative publicity.”
Throughout this summer, incidents of ‘hooning’ behaviour have led to calls in the media to ban PWC riders from certain waterways, along with temporary boat ramp closures. Jet ski sales remain buoyant, however, with registrations soaring by more than 70 per cent over the past decade.
Many buyers are first-time boaties who may be less knowledgeable about on-water etiquette and safe boating practices.
“Safety and education have long been top of mind for everyone at Club Marine and it has been disappointing to see headlines in the media relating to poor conduct by a few jet ski riders, in particular the close distances to swimmers and other boats,” Mr Wiles added.
“These incidents serve as a sobering reminder of the need for responsibility and respect on the water. It’s important that we work together as a community to educate and raise awareness about these risks and encourage positive behaviours."
“That said, we’re mainly dealing with accidental damage, underwater impact, theft and mechanical issues, which are generally common to most other hull types.”