Newbies Master The Art of PWC
Know Your PWC | Yamaha Marine Academy
When Jordan Hays and Sheena Watkins signed up for the Yamaha Marine Academy's "Know Your PWC" course, they had never even sat on a personal watercraft (PWC) before. By the end of the day, however, they were confidently riding as if they'd grown up on the water. Thanks to trainers Cory Hillsley and Brodie Davidson, the pair transformed from complete novices into capable, confident, and safe riders in just one day.
Both Jordan and Sheena had recently received their combined boat and PWC licenses and were eager to make the most of their new Yamaha WaveRunners. Their goal? To master the basics and gain valuable tips that would ensure safe and confident rides on the water.
The Yamaha Marine Academy’s "Know Your PWC" course is designed for everyone—whether you’re a first-timer like Jordan and Sheena or an experienced rider looking to sharpen your skills. The one-day, practical course is fully customisable to each participant’s skill level, with expert trainers tailoring their approach to suit individual needs.
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A Hands-On Learning Experience
Jordan and Sheena’s adventure began on the picturesque Hawkesbury River. Upon arrival, they met their trainers, Cory and Brodie—both certified captains with years of on-water experience and a passion for sharing their knowledge.
Surprisingly, the day didn’t start on the water but in the car park. Cory kicked things off with a comprehensive introduction to the WaveRunner, covering everything from pre-ride checks to essential safety procedures. The trainers emphasised the importance of boat ramp etiquette and proper launching techniques before the group moved on to the water.
Once they were ready to launch, Cory paired up with Jordan while Brodie worked with Sheena. The trainers took a step-by-step approach to teaching basic control functions, ensuring each student advanced at a comfortable pace. After mastering the basics, it was time for their first solo ride.
Building Skills and Confidence
Following their initial solo rides, the trainers introduced docking techniques—a crucial skill for any PWC rider. Jordan and Sheena learned how to gently manoeuvre their WaveRunners into position and secure them dockside.
Next, the group set out on a scenic ride along the Hawkesbury River, heading toward a secluded beach affectionately known as "Gilligan’s Island." Once there, they practiced sand anchoring and beach docking procedures. By this point, the once-nervous novices were starting to look like seasoned pros.
The trainers seized every opportunity to share practical tips. A visit to a nearby waterfall provided a real-world example of how quickly water conditions can change when the wind picks up. As they navigated through choppier waters, Cory and Brodie offered advice on handling rough conditions with ease.
Wrapping Up the Day
With a full day of training behind them, Jordan and Sheena were given the chance to enjoy some free riding, shadowed by their trainers. They practiced everything they’d learned—from launching and docking to navigating various water conditions—while soaking up the thrill of riding their new WaveRunners.
The day concluded with lessons on retrieving the PWCs and loading them onto trailers. Cory and Brodie also covered post-ride maintenance tips to ensure the WaveRunners stayed in top condition.
Why Choose the Yamaha Marine Academy?
Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes or a seasoned rider wanting to fine-tune your skills, the Yamaha Marine Academy’s "Know Your PWC" course offers a personalized, hands-on approach. Participants leave with more than just new skills—they gain the confidence and competence to fully enjoy the thrill of PWC riding.
For Jordan and Sheena, the day on the Hawkesbury River was just the beginning of their new adventure on the water. Thanks to the Yamaha Marine Academy, they’re now ready to ride with confidence, safety, and a whole lot of excitement.