Would you love to get out on the water but are in need of a personal watercraft to hit the waves and enjoy a few rides? If that’s the case, Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC is here to help you through the process of buying a personal watercraft for the first time.

Thinking about buying your first personal watercraft (PWC)? If you’re dreaming of riding waves at Lake Hartwell or exploring the inlets around Lake Keowee, owning a jet ski or Sea-Doo is a fast track to outdoor fun. But before you hand over the cash or sign a loan, there are a few key things every first-time buyer should know, especially here in Greenville, NC, where watercraft maintenance and seasonal storage matter.

Here’s your complete guide to making a smart PWC purchase and buying a personal watercraft for the first time.

If you want to have fun on your new watercraft for many years to come, call Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC at (252) 917-1677 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to find the top maintenance products for your marine engine’s upkeep.

Buying a Personal Watercraft

1. Understand the Different Types of PWCs

There are three primary types of PWCs:

• Recreational (Sit-Down): Great for beginners, families, and cruising. Can typically seat two to three people.
• Performance Models: Designed for speed and agility, ideal for experienced riders or adrenaline junkies.
• Stand-Up PWCs: For solo riders looking to master tricks or compete. They require more balance and skill.

Most first-time buyers opt for recreational sit-down models like the Yamaha VX or Sea-Doo GTI. These are stable, reliable, and good all-around options.

2. New vs. Used: Weigh the Pros and Cons

• New PWCs offer warranties, peace of mind, and the latest tech, but come at a higher price tag (often $9,000–$18,000).
• Used PWCs can save you money but may need more maintenance. Always get a mechanic to inspect the engine, hull, and electronics before you buy.

If buying used, check:

• Engine hours (less than 100 hours is ideal for a used model)
• Hull condition (look for cracks, patches, or discoloration)
• Maintenance history
• Compression test results (if available)

3. Don’t Forget About the Trailer

Unless you live directly on the water, you’ll need a PWC trailer to tow it. Some used PWCs are sold with trailers, but always confirm it's in roadworthy condition:

• Check tire tread and pressure
• Inspect the winch, lights, and straps
• Make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle's hitch setup

4. Factor in the Full Cost of Ownership

Besides the purchase price, consider the following:

• Registration and titling fees (required by NC law)
• Insurance (recommended for theft, collision, and liability)
• Fuel and oil (some high-performance models burn more than you expect)
• Storage costs (especially in off-season)
• Maintenance – Routine services like oil changes, impeller inspections, and winterization

At our shop in Greenville, NC, we help customers keep their PWCs running smoothly year-round, and offer off-season storage options too.

Once you get through the process of buying a personal watercraft, check out AMSOIL’s full-line of Marine Engine maintenance products to keep your new vehicle in the best shape possible.

5. Take a Boater Safety Course

In North Carolina, anyone born after January 1, 1988 must complete a NASBLA-approved boater education course to legally operate a PWC. It’s not just a formality, it can help you stay safe, avoid tickets, and often lower your insurance rate.

You can find free or low-cost courses online through the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

6. Know Where You Can Ride Near Greenville

While Greenville doesn’t have major lakes inside city limits, several great PWC destinations are a short drive away:

• Lake Hartwell – Perfect for cruising and fishing
• Lake Keowee – Clear water, boat ramps, and ideal for performance models
• Tar River (non-motorized sections within the city, but PWC-friendly farther east)

Be aware of no-wake zones, and always respect local boating laws.

7. Plan for Routine Maintenance

Like any motorized vehicle, a PWC requires regular care:

• Oil changes (every 25–50 hours of use or annually)
• Spark plug replacements
• Impeller and wear ring inspections
• Battery checks
• Hull and pump flushing after rides in brackish or dirty water

Our Greenville-based marine service center specializes in PWC tune-ups, diagnostics, winterization, and repairs, so you don’t get stranded halfway through your lake day.

Hope you enjoy your new marine engine! Call Cherry Synthetics in Greenville, NC at (252) 917-1677 or visit AMSOIL’s online store to place an order for the best products to maintain your personal watercraft good as new for longer.