Get Your Boat or Jet Ski Back on the Water: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid for a Smooth Sailing Season
When the sun is shining and the temperature rises, the call of the water is hard to resist. For many Quebecers, boating season is one of the most anticipated times of the year. Whether you own a pleasure boat or a jet ski, one thing is certain: proper pre-season preparation is essential.
Skipping a full inspection before launching your watercraft can lead to mechanicalproblems, avoidable accidents—or simply a frustrating first ride. To help you start the summer right, Motosport 360 shares the 10 most common mistakes boat and jet ski owners make—and how to avoid them.
1. Forgetting the Drain Plug
This is easily the most common mistake at the start of the season. Every spring, boat and jet ski owners find themselves frantically bailing out water—or worse, watching their craft sink—simply because they forgot to reinsert the drain plug.
What to do
Before backing your trailer down the launch ramp, walk around your watercraft and check that the drain plug is:
- Properly inserted
- Securely tightened
- Undamaged
This 10-second step can save you a world of trouble.
2. Neglecting the Battery and Electrical System
A dead battery is one of the quickest ways to spoil your day on the water. If your battery sat unused all winter, it may no longer hold a charge—or worse, be damaged.
What to do
Before your first outing:
- Visually inspect the battery
- Fully recharge it
- Check cables and terminals for corrosion
- Test navigation lights, bilge pumps, and other electronics
3. Dry Starting the Engine
Starting your engine before launch is smart, but running it dry (out of the water) for too long can cause serious damage—especially to the cooling system.
What to do:
- Use a hose adapter (also called a “flusher”)
- Start the engine briefly—just long enough to confirm it runs smoothly
- Watch for warning lights and make sure water is flowing from the pee hole (on jet skis), which indicates the cooling system is working properly
4. Skipping the Propeller or Jet Pump Inspection
Your propeller or jet pump is critical to performance. A bent blade, stuck debris, or tangled rope can reduce efficiency or even damage your engine.
What to do
Before each ride:
- Visually inspect the propeller or pump
- Remove any debris
- Replace damaged parts as needed
5. Using Old Fuel or Forgetting to Refuel
Old fuel that’s been sitting in the tank for months without stabilizer can degrade and absorb moisture—potentially harming your engine.
What to do:
- Drain old fuel if necessary
- Refill with fresh, high-quality gasoline
- Inspect fuel lines for cracks or leaks
6. Ignoring Onboard Safety Equipment
Boating safety isn’t just important—it’s required by law. In Canada, all motorized watercraft must carry specific safety equipment on board.
Must-haves for every vessel:
- One approved PFD (life jacket) per person
- Whistle or sound-signalling device
- 50-ft floating rope
- First aid kit
- Waterproof flashlight
- Fire extinguisher (depending on vessel type)
What to do:
- Check that all your safety gear is compliant and in working order
- Replace any expired or damaged items
- Always wear your PFD—it’s mandatory on jet skis and strongly recommended on boats
7. Forgetting to Inspect the Trailer
Your boat or jet ski might be ready, but what about your trailer? Neglecting trailer maintenance can lead to breakdowns on the road or problems at the boat launch.
What to do
Inspect the trailer before every outing:
- Check tire pressure and tread wear
- Test tailer lights and signals
- Secure all tie-downs and straps
- Grease wheel bearings if needed
8. Overlooking Cracks or Hull Damage
Winter storage, bumps, or regular wear can cause cracks or dents in your hull. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to leaks or further damage on the water.
What to do:
- Visually inspect the hull for damage
- Pay close attention to high-contact areas (near the trailer or dock)
- Get any issues repaired by a professional before launching
9. Heading Out Without Checking the Weather
A sunny start doesn’t guarantee a safe day on the water. Sudden storms, strong winds, or rough waves can develop quickly—especially on large lakes or rivers.
What to do:
- Always check the weather forecast before heading out
- Use a reliable marine weather app like Windy, Navionics, Weather Network Marine
- Monitor Transport Canada marine alerts
- Have a backup plan in case weather conditions change
10. Boating Without a License or Knowing the Local Rules
In Quebec, operating a motorized boat or personal watercraft (PWC) like a jet ski requires a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Many waterways also have local rules such as speed limits, protected zones, or no-wake areas.
What to do:
- Ensure all operators have a valid boating licence
- Review local regulations for the waterbody you’re visiting
- Respect posted signs and markers on the water
Proper Prep = More Fun on the Water
A little pre-season prep goes a long way. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll enjoy a smoother, safer, and more enjoyable boating season—whether you’re riding solo on a jet ski or cruising with family and friends.
Find the Right Boat or Jet Ski at Motosport 360
Thinking of upgrading your watercraft or buying your very first one? Motosport 360 has you covered.
We carry a wide selection of new and pre-owned boats and jet skis, all ready to hit the water. Whether you’re after speed, comfort, or something beginner-friendly, our team will help you find the perfect match for your needs, lifestyle, and budget.
👉 Browse our online inventory or visit us in-store to speak with our experts.
Make this summer one to remember—out on the water, where all the fun is.