PWC 2019

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PACIFIC

P E R S O N A L WAT E R C R A F T

2019 ANNUAL

MAGAZINE

2019 BUYERS GUIDE

Yamaha

FX CRUISER SVHO

y l i m Fa Fun

EXPLORING TA S M A N I A

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S E A D O O F I S H P R O – A D E D I C AT E D F I S H I N G M AC H I N E

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www. to get YOUR dose of YOUR boating passion 132 PACIFIC PWC 2019

Published annually in January.

CONTENTS 134

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2019 While Kawasaki have not announced any seriously different model changes, both Yamaha and Sea-Doo have plenty that’s different for next season.

140

2019 BUYERS GUIDE

142

LUXURY & PERFORMANCE FROM YAMAHA WAVERUNNER SVHO FX LTD

146

A RIDE ON THE WILD SIDE Chris Beattie joins a group of adventurous jetskiers exploring the wild waterways of western Tasmania.

The Yamaha FX Limited SVHO is all about putting everything Yamaha can offer into a single WaveRunner. It’s not only got the most technology, but the most luxury and most performance as well.

All the models from Yamaha, Kawasaki & Sea Doo

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PACIFIC

P E R S O N A L WAT E R C R A F T PUBLISHER D&B Publishing Ltd Trading as BoatMags.com

MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL Barry Thompson, Editor DDI: +64 (0)9 428 2086 Mob: +64 (0)21 777 355 barry@boatmags.com

PRODUCTION Design & Prepress: Annabelle Rose Design Mob: +64 (0)27 427 4559 design@annabellerose.co.nz Printer: PMP Limited ADVERTISING New Zealand Doug Dukeson DDI: +64 (0)9 428 2328 Mob: +64 (0)21 772 202 doug@boatmags.com

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CIRCULATION Gordon & Gotch Ltd REGISTERED OFFICE Tel: +64 (0)9 428 2086 www.boatmags.com Postal Address: PO Box 132 Whangaparaoa, Auckland 0930, New Zealand.

All rights reserved. Reprinting in whole or part is expressly forbidden, except by written permission of the publisher.

ISSN 2382-0993 (Printed) ISSN 2382-1000 (Online)

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BUYERS GUIDE 2019

SEA-DOO FISH PRO 155

FISHING

FOCUS 2 0 1 9 M O D E L S F R O M S E A - D O O A N D K AWA S A K I H AV E F I S H I N G F O C U S , W H I L E YA M A H A CONTINUES TO IMPROVE ITS MODEL RANGE.

P

WC FISHING enthusiasts already appreciate the benefits of fishing from a ski. There is the easier access to fishing spots, the compact size, more time fishing and less time worrying about preparation, clean up or crew.

They are also a lot of fun to travel to and from fishing spots. And when you get there you are close to the action. While there are plenty of accessories dedicated to making your fishing

134 PACIFIC PWC 2019

from a ski that much easier, a fishing dedicated ski has always been a custom option , but no longer.

Two industry leaders, Sea-Doo and Kawasaki have just released their own factory optioned fishing models; Sea-Doo Fish Pro and the Kawasaki Ultra LX-F. While Yamaha have not announced “yet� a dedicated fishing ski, there are plenty of options for Waverunners that turn them in seriously cool PWC fishing platforms.

YAMAHA FX CRUISER SVHO

YAMAHA YA M A H A’ S 2 0 1 9 WAV E R U N N E R RANGE SEES EXCITING NEW MODEL ADDITIONS, EXISTING MODEL UPGRADES, AND NEW COLOUR AND STYLING OPTIONS. Leading the charge is the much-anticipated redesign of Yamaha’s flagship luxury-performance and feature-packed FX Series WaveRunners, which have built an enviable reputation in the racing, long-distance touring and fishing scenes.

Matt Walton-Smith, National Manager - Marine, Yamaha Motor New Zealand said, “We are thrilled to be launching the new 2019 FX Series, one of the most exciting personal watercraft product developments in recent times. This new design takes one of our most popular WaveRunner platforms to the next level, with a complete update of the hull, deck, and control systems.”

“The 2019 Series retains the industry’s largest displacement and proven, 1.8 Litre, four-cylinder marine engine, while bringing new and innovative design features for a more aggressive, fun and overall improved riding experience and performance,” he said.

Yamaha’s 2019 FX Series hull and deck receive a complete style makeover, giving the craft a more aerodynamic performance and edgier look, while retaining much of the design heritage from previous FX models. An innovative industry first new feature, which answers the prayers of many personal watercraft enthusiasts, is the inclusion of drains which efficiently remove water from the footwell.

Below the waterline, Yamaha’s FX Series continues to lead the industry when it comes to stability and handling with a totally new hull design. The integrated bow chines deliver an YAMAHA VX LIUMITED

even dryer and more comfortable riding experience, while the new top loader intake grate and sponsons provide maximum hook up and improved stability in all water conditions.

For easier boarding, the new FX comes with a deeper, flatter and softer reboarding step. In another industry first, the FX Series incorporates a new 4.3-inch colour LCD touch-screen instrument panel, giving the rider increased fuel information, drive controls, diagnostics and screen customisation at their fingertips.

This upgraded control system includes advanced reverse assistance for easier launching off trailers, more control over speed and acceleration settings for learner riders, towing and fuel management, new ultra-slow speed manoeuvring mode and three No Wake Mode settings to meet different speed zone restrictions. Other new features include the introduction of a multi-mount system for the attachment of third party camera, speaker, GPS, fish finder or phone devices.

The 2019 model also sees the inclusion of a new extralarge watertight glove box, increasing the overall storage from 125 to a massive 153 litres. The 2019 FX Series WaveRunners come in four model variants, the naturally aspirated FX HO and FX Cruiser HO models and the supercharged FX SVHO and FX Cruiser SVHO models.

All FX models retain their large 70 litre fuel tank capacity, while the craft length increases by 2cm to 3.58 m and width by 4cm to 1.27 m, on prior year models. The dry weight for the FX SVHO models come in at a slightly reduced 372 kgs, while the FX HO models come in at 380 kgs.

In addition to the FX Series, the 2019 WaveRunner line-up sees Yamaha expand their championship winning race line-up with the edition of the all new EXR ‘pocket rocket’ race ready model. Based on Yamaha’s Rec-Lite EX series WaveRunners, WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 135

BUYERS GUIDE 2019 YAMAHA GP1800 R

YAMAHA EX SPORT

the EXR combines the ultra light-weight and race proved NanoXcel2 hull and deck with the more powerful onelitre TR-1 High Output engine, to deliver a very affordable racing package. With its racy looks, compact size and power pack performance, the EXR will ensure Yamaha continues to dominate the Rec-Lite Stock Classes on the NZ racing scene. Other important changes to Yamaha’s race ready line-up are performance upgrades to the multiple Australian Championship winning GP1800 and VXR race ready models. Both skis receive new top loader intake grates and race designed ride plates, dramatically improving their

performance for sharper and more predictable handling and better hook up in rough water and cornering. The VXR also steps up to the ultra light-weight NonoXcel2 hull and deck for improved acceleration and overall power-to-weight performance. Finally, Yamaha’s number one selling VX Series range of WaveRunners sees the introduction of two new model variants. The VX Cruiser which comes with Yamaha’s luxury cruiser seat and the VX Cruiser HO, which comes with the cruiser seat and much larger 1.8 High Output marine engine and high-pressure jet pump for increased power and performance.

2018 PWC BUYERS GUIDE YAMAHA GP 1800-R VXR FX Cruiser SVHO FX SVHO FX Cruiser HO FX HO VX CRUISER HO EX EX SPORT EXR VX CRUISER VX Deluxe Super Jet

HP

Yamaha do not publish horsepower

Model

Engine

Cc

Aspiration

Storage

Fuel

Weight

Persons

4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 2-Stroke

1812 1812 1812 1812 1812 1812 1812 1049 1049 1049 1049 1049 701

SC NA SC SC NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA NA

93L 93.2L 125.5L 125.5L 125.5L 125.5L 125.5L 30L 30L 30L 93.2L 93.2L NONE

70L 70L 70L 70L 70L 70L 70L 50L 50L 50L 70L 70L 18L

349 kg 335 kg 372 kg 371 kg 380 kg 379kg 348 kg 262 kg 265 kg 245 kg 303 kg 301 kg 139 kg

Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 1 Only

SEA DOO GTX Limited 300 RXP-X 300 RXT-X 300 GTR 230 Wake Pro 230 GTX 230 GTX 155 FISH PRO 155 GTI 130 GTI 90 Spark & Spark Trixx

300 300 300 230 230 230 155 155 130 60 60

4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke

1630 1630 1630 1494 1494 1494 1494 1494 1494 899 899

SC SC SC SC SC SA NA NA NA NA NA

102.5 L 116.4 L 102.5 L 116.6 L 102.5 L 102.5 L 102.5 L 153.5 L 116.6 L 116.6 L 28 L

60L 60 L 60 L 60 L 60 L 60 L 60 L 70 L 60 L 60 L 30 L

385 kg 384 kg 376 kg 367 kg 370 kg 365 kg 348 kg 272 kg 326 kg 291 kg 195 kg

Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 2 or 3

KAWASAKI Ultra 310LX Ultra 310X Ultra 310R Ultra LX Ultra STX-15F SX-R Ultra LX-F Fishing

310 310 310 160 160 160 160

4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke 4-Stroke

1498 1498 1498 1498 1498 1498 1498

SC SC SC NA NA NA NA

212L 212L 212L 200L 89L NONE 212L

78L 78L 78L 78L 62L 23L 78L

487 kg 477 kg 475 kg 423 kg 383 kg 250 kg 435 kg

Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 Up to 3 1 Only Up to 3

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE

3.99

% APR OVER 3 YEARS

NO DEPOSIT

/YamahaMarineNZ

AVAILABLE ON ALL WAVERUNNERS*

yamaha-motor.co.nz

*YMF loans are simple and convenient. Applications can be completed in person at Yamaha’s nationwide dealerships or pre-approved online through the Yamaha website. 3.99% p.a. finance rate is available to approved personal applicants of Yamaha Motor Finance across all new 2018 WaveRunner models. Offer is available while stocks last at participating dealers on a fixed rate secure consumer loan term of 36 months on YMF’s standard loan terms and conditions between the 27TH of September and 31st November 2018. Credit criteria, fees, charges and terms and conditions apply including an application fee of $325, $10 PPSR fee and a dealer administration fee. Yamaha Motor Finance New Zealand Ltd. (YMF) NZBN 9429036270798. FSP 9622

WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 137

BUYERS GUIDE 2019

KAWASKI ULTRA 310 KAWASAKI STX-15F

KAWASAKI F O R 2 0 1 9 K AWA S A K I H AV E S O FA R O N LY A N N O U N C E D T H E I R N E W K AWA S A K I U LT R A L X - F, W H I C H I S E S S E N T I A L LY F O R T H E L O C A L M A R K E T.

The Kawasaki Ultra LX-F(F for Fishing) hull features a deep-V hull design matched to an economical and proven 1498cc engine and long-range 78L fuel tank. Combine this with a considerable 212L of storage, luxury seating for three, Manta rod holder, premium Icey-Tek chilly bin and Lowrance Hook2 fishfinder and you have everything you need onboard fishing.

The Ultra LX is equipped a scalloped seat designed for enhanced cruising comfort. Contoured for a good ergonomic

fit, the seat offers ultra-comfortable accommodation for three.

There are no rumours of anything radically new from Kawasaki apart from some graphics and colour changes to existing models.

Official market reporting has Kawasaki losing more market share in 2018, down to 5.5 percent of the total personal watercraft market. Add to that less interest in the SX-R 1500 than Kawasaki had hoped for, and the likelihood for the manufacturer to unleash a whole new PWC line up isn’t too bright. Still, the LX-F fishing version should attract some attention. Currently they offer seven models based on the same 1.5 litre 4-stroke engine, with power ranging from 160hp through to 310hp.

KAWASAKI ULTRA 310LX

138 PACIFIC PWC 2019

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BUYERS GUIDE 2019

SEA-DOO L I K E K AWA S A K I , S E A - D O O ’ S B I G G E S T NEW RELEASE FOR 2019 IS THEIR SPECIALIST FISHING MODEL. THE SEA -DOO FISH PRO 155 IS THEIR F I R S T F U L LY D E D I C AT E D S K I A N D I S C E R TA I N T O B E A B I G S E L L E R .

The Sea-Doo Fish Pro is designed to give an unfair advantage to fishing enthusiasts.

BRP continues to enhance the personal watercraft ownership experience with a new, specialised Sea-Doo model purposebuilt for fishing. The 2019 Sea-Doo Fish Pro is the first and Personal Watercraft (PWC) built specifically from the factory for fishing.

The Fish Pro has a long list of innovative features, including a removable fishing cooler, Garmin MFD, bench seat for ease of movement, angled gunwale footrests for stability and comfort, and trolling mode. It is the ideal watercraft for anglers looking for a purpose built fishing PWC. It offers everything and more to help your fishing experience.

For 2019 Sea-Doo have add a fully-submersible and removable audio system to their Spark range. 50 watts and bluetooth connectivity comes with a rechargeable lithium battery and control pad on the speaker makes it easy to control on or off your watercraft.

The range of PWCs runs right through from the recreational models such as the GTI and Traxx, through to the touring skis, tow sports and performance machines. In all, Sea-Doo offer 14 models, the most of all PWC manufacturers.

SEA-DOO-SPARK-TRIXX

140 PACIFIC PWC 2019

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PWC REVIEW er SVHO is u r C X F r e n n u R Ya m a h a Wa v e

L O O K I N G AT T H E N E W 2 0 1 9 YA M A H A WAV E R U N N E R F X CRUISER SVHO, IT’S LINES AND COLOURS GIVE THE PWC A MORE A G G R E S S I V E L O O K . YA M A H A H A S TA K E N S O M E O F T H E S H A R P E D G E L O O K AWAY, W H I L E S T I L L M A I N TA I N I N G T H E L O W S L E E K S T Y L E . A L L S I T T I N G O N A B R A N D N E W N A N O X C E L 2 U LT R A - L I G H T W E I G H T H U L L A N D DECK (ABOUT 7KGS LIGHTER THAN THE PREVIOUS MODEL). THE UNIT IS S TA B L E AT B O T H I D L E A N D S P E E D ( I N B O T H F L AT WAT E R A N D A B I T O F C H O P ) W I T H O N E A N D T W O U P. F O R A L A R G E R P W C I T WA S R E A S O N A B LY N I M B L E W H E N T H R O W I N G I T I N T O A C O R N E R A N D H E L D O N T I G H T. I A L S O F O U N D T H E H U L L T O B E V E RY E F F I C I E N T A N D S E E M E D D RY E R T H A N T H E P R E V I O U S M O D E L S – T H E WAT E R I S B E T T E R D E F L E C T E D B A C K D O W N , TA K I N G AWAY T H E O P P O R T U N I T Y F O R T H E W I N D T O C AT C H T H E S P R AY A N D T H R O W I T B A C K AT T H E R I D E R . T H E 2 0 1 9 F X D E C K A N D H U L L ARE 2CM LONGER AND 4CM WIDER, THAN THE PREVIOUS MODEL, WITH STRAKES RUNNING THE LENGTH OF THE HULL. 142 PACIFIC PWC 2019

BEING A CURRENT O W N E R O F A YA M A H A W AV E R U N N E R V X R , DOUG DUKESON JUMPED AT T H E O P P O R T U N I T Y TO TEST THE JUST RELEASED, 2019 YA M A H A W AV E R U N N E R FX CRUISER SVHO FOR A F E W D AY S .

WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 143

PWC REVIEW er SVHO is u r C X F r e n n u R Ya m a h a Wa v e

THE POWER PLANT The WaveRunner VXR is still powered by the same Yamaha Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) 1812cc engine as the 2018 model. A four cylinder, four stroke, supercharged, water cooled engine offering plenty of power on demand.

Pull the throttle hard back and in just a matter of seconds you are screaming across the water at 100km/h plus. For your piece of mind - there are modes to restrict top speed and acceleration for newbies, allowing more seasoned PWC riders to still experience the full power from the one PWC – at a simple change of a setting.

S E AT I N G The new seating configuration of the FX Cruiser SVHO is comfortable offering great back support for the pilot, with layered stepped seating. The two passengers also get great vision forward, with comfort to match.

STORAGE The large forward bow storage department offers a huge storage cavity, when combined with the other storage spaces, there’s over 125 litres of storage. This very generous in a PWC and almost double of some competitor models. The glovebox forward of the riders position offers good storage and although a narrow opening, the area within offers good space and enough for me to store my SLR digital camera, phone, hat, keys plus more.

The one small criticism I had, was the new rubber clip, it 144 PACIFIC PWC 2019

is a little fiddlier and I much prefer the previous model’s plastic clip catch. There is also the normal storage under the rear seat (above the battery and jet unit), with a separate water tight storage bin. The seat forward when removed offers access to the engine plant. A new addition to the storage offering, is a narrow ‘stern boot’ just above the boarding platform. This is not water tight but a great place to store ropes and items that do not necessarily need to be kept dry.

Other modifications to the rear of the PWC include a new platform step to the extended transom. This wider step drops down lower than previous models offering easier boarding access, even more so with the new grab handle situated just below the transom storage area.

INDUSTRY FIRST The biggest buzz for me, was the addition of Yamaha’s new Connext touchscreen digital dash – an industry first for PWC’s. The 4.3” multi-function digital screen is clear and easy to see, with almost no glare, even in the brightest sun conditions we experienced on the day. The screen is locked out at higher speeds for safety reasons.

The multifunction screen offers readings for speed, trim, fuel and associated usage, a drive control system for limited top speed and acceleration limit modes. Great for those learning, that may need some limits set. There is no more need for a remote for security, as there is an onscreen PIN number access.

It can be a bit of a stretch and difficult to alter the touch screen especially when in lumpy seas and for this reason,

THE LARGER NEW DESIGN HULL, MATCHED WITH THE POWERFUL ENGINE, IS STILL NIMBLE ENOUGH TO BE THROWN AROUND.

YAMAHA’S NEW CONNEXT TOUCHSCREEN DIGITAL DASH – AN INDUSTRY FIRST FOR PWC’S.

A NEW STORAGE ADDITION IS THE NARROW ‘STERN BOOT’ FOUND JUST ABOVE THE BOARDING PLATFORM.

THE NEW BOARDING STEP FROM THE EXTENDED TRANSOM, IS WIDER AND DROPS DOWN LOWER THAN PREVIOUS MODELS.

Yamaha has added menu scroll buttons just below the handle bars.

Other innovative additions are the new footwell drain holes – they were slow to drain, but they did drain – great when wash down at the end of the day or draining rain if stored outside. Yamaha have also added two mounts just behind the handle bars for stereo, fish finder and numerous aftermarket accessories now available.

The FX Cruiser SVHO has continued with the No Wake Mode and Cruise control buttons on the right hand handle bar and on the left is the trim buttons and the very effective RiDE system leaver which operates the Brake/neutral/forward options.

Another cool new feature is the docking feature, which limits

the revs when approaching a dock or another boat when cation and control is important.

I had a great afternoon out with my daughter Holly, who also enjoyed her time on the FX Cruiser SVHO, feeling very comfortable with the handling of the larger craft, the power on offer and technological advancements; some probably more than me.

The Yamaha crew have done it again, introducing PWC innovation and in the case of the FX Cruiser SVHO - a great looking PWC combined with a mix of performance and comfort, without compromise!!

RRP: $28,999 www.yamaha-motor.co.nz WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 145

A RIDE ON TH

146 PACIFIC PWC 2019

HE WILD SIDE TEXT BY CHRIS BEATTIE

WE JOIN A GROUP OF ADVENTUROUS JETSKIERS EXPLORING THE WILD WAT E R WAY S O F

Western Tasmania.

WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 147

Western Tasmania.

EXPLORING THE UNTAMED KING RIVER.

JETSKITAS CLUB PRESIDENT DAVE GRAY HAS AN INDUSTRIAL STRENGTH SENSE OF ADVENTURE.

T

HE scene was almost surreal in its perfect tranquility and beauty. A craggy mountain range with rolling forested foothills led down to an ice-blue lake, with not a drop of wind to interrupt the mirrored reflections. Overhead, a brilliant blue sky and piercing early morning sun were beginning to burn off the low mist on the far side of the lake.

As I stood on the shore, it occurred to me that Tasmanians are spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor adventure opportunities and locations.

We were in the company of a group of jetski enthusiasts who call themselves Jetskitas, otherwise known as the Tasmanian Jet Sport Boating Club, a group formed around the idea of using jetskis to explore far and not so far-flung places in a group

148 PACIFIC PWC 2019

scenario. It was early March and we were preparing to launch a fleet of 16 jetskis on Lake Burbury, a man-made reservoir a short drive from Queenstown, on Tasmania’s west coast. A weekend of activities was planned, including a day on Macquarie Harbour and a run up the World Heritage-listed Gordon and Franklin Rivers.

Our Lake Burbury tour was split into morning and afternoon rides, exploring the coastline and meandering up some of the inlets and tributaries around the lake’s 54sq km.

Our host was Dave Gray, President of Jetskitas, a man with considerable experience at the helm of a jetski, most recently completing The Ride for Pippa, a circumnavigation of Tasmania in support of the Leukaemia Foundation.

A MIRROR SMOOTH LAKE BURBURY.

A MIXED MOB

SOCIAL SCENE

The participants for this west-coast adventure were a mix of veteran, experienced and not so experienced riders, some riding solo and others two- or even three-up in the case of one enthusiastic family.

Reg Turner, of Maynes Marine, kindly supplied a pair of SeaDoos – a Wake and Spark – for myself and Justin Quinton, to ride.

Our perfect day just kept getting better once all the ’skis were launched and ready for the day’s adventure. We were soon underway in a loose convoy of jetskis of varying brands and models, following Reg as he led us off for a tour of the lake’s picturesque shoreline, much of it semi-wilderness area.

All Jetskitas rides include a lead rider out front, who has experience in the particular area being explored, plus a sweep rider at the rear to ensure everyone is present and accounted for at the start and end of each ride and that anyone who has issues is looked after. All riders are briefed on the area being explored before heading off, including any hazards along the way, and new riders are checked to ensure they feel comfortable with the conditions and that their jetski is properly equipped and in good working order.

Given the perfect mirror-like conditions on the lake and its tributaries, it was a relatively unchallenging ride, leaving everyone free to enjoy the wild scenic wonderland that surrounded us.

Tributaries and coastal features were explored as we spent the day enjoying the freedom of being on the water in the great outdoors.

With the sun heading for its rendezvous with the western horizon, we eventually loaded up the ’skis for the next port of call, an overnight stay at the historic township of Strahan, on Macquarie Harbour on the west coast, a little over an hour’s drive away.

The Jetskitas crew enjoy their off-water activities as much as on, judging by a great dinner and raffle draw we attended on the Saturday night at Bushmans Bar & Café, overlooking the waterfront at Strahan. The raffle was in aid of Lifeline Tas, a suicide prevention service, that the club raised more than $1500 for on the weekend.

The main prize was a $500 insurance voucher donated by Club Marine and won by Club Marine members Ian Macleod and Anne Flint.

Sunday was going to be the ‘glamour’ ride of the weekend, circumnavigating Macquarie Harbour – a body of water six times the size of Sydney Harbour – and taking in some of the scenic and historic features of the area.

It proved to be a day of varied riding conditions covering nearly 190km and meandering up a wilderness river – although not the planned one. More on that later.

First port of call was the often hostile and aptly named Hell’s Gates, a narrow opening where the harbour meets the Southern Ocean.

Sandwiched between the Cape Sorell lighthouse o the south and the wide expanse of Ocean Beach to the north, the entrance can be an unpredictable and hazardous place at times. The ocean was fortunately in a benign mood when we arrived, encouraging the more adventurous riders to venture a couple of kilometres beyond the entrance out into the ocean.

It was here that another important aspect of the Jetskitas rides became apparent. One of the rider’s ’skis developed an electrical issue that shut the engine down, which could have developed into a dangerous situation given the currents running through the area.

Fortunately, there was a mechanic amongst the riders, who was

WWW.BOATMAGS.COM 149

Western Tasmania.

ADVENTURE-BOUND …

JETSKITAS MEMBERS PREPARE TO MOUNT UP FOR A DAY ON BEAUTIFUL LAKE BURBURY.

THE MORE, THE MERRIER … JETSKITAS WELCOMES NEW MEMBERS AND IS HOPING TO HOST VISITORS ON GROUP RIDES IN THE FUTURE. able to diagnose the problem and provide a quick fix, allowing the rider to continue with confidence.

Similarly, on a couple of occasions ’skis were brought to a halt when they ingested floating debris into their impellers, a not uncommon issue with jetskis. Generally, it requires that the ‘ski be towed to shore where it can be turned on its side, with the errant twig or piece of seaweed removed. It can be a difficult process at best for a lone jetskier, but with experienced club members on the ride the ’skis were quickly attended to and up and running again.

We continued south, exploring the western coastline of the harbour, including the large – and controversial – salmon pens that now occupy the southern reaches. Our destination was the

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mouth of the Gordon River, where it was planned that we would regroup for a ride up through the pristine World Heritage-listed river and wilderness area. Except we couldn’t.

SKIS NOT WELCOME Between the club’s last ride up the river and this one, the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service had erected a sign at the mouth of the river that declared that “Jet Ski’s” (sic) were banned from entering.

One wag suggested that given the literal wording, the ban might only apply to Kawasaki Jet Skis, since the Japanese brand had, until recently, claimed a copyright on the two-word term.

Meanwhile, Dave Gray attempted to contact the officials

responsible to see if we could be granted a temporary exemption while we waited at the mouth, but it was to no avail and it was eventually decided we would instead head for the King River further up the harbour.

Along the way, we dropped in on historic Sarah Island, which was a penal settlement from 1822 to 1833. Only the most incorrigible convicts ended up at Sarah Island, which was intended to break their spirits due to its extreme isolation and harsh climate. Today, the ruins are still evident all over the small rock, with plenty of fascinating and informative signposts describing the island’s history and the forbidding lives of its inhabitants.

At each stop throughout the day, ride leader, Dave Gray and his sweep, Carolyn Pillans, made the rounds of the riders to check that everyone was comfortable with their ’skis and the pace of the ride.

By early afternoon, the wind had whipped the waves on the shallow harbour to a half-metre chop, which made for a lumpy passage as we attempted to keep to our schedule and take in the ride up the King River on the harbour’s north-eastern corner.

After a half-hour or so of carving through the chop and spray, it was a relief to enter the calm of the river and enjoy a relaxed run of around 20km as the river meandered its way through the dense forest. The ride was made more interesting by the unannounced entrance of the West Coast Wilderness Railway’s historic steam train as it crossed a bridge over the river on its regular run from Queenstown down to Strahan.

FREEDOM AND MOBILITY The King River stretch reinforced the freedom, mobility and accessibility that jetskis offer over more conventional craft. The ’skis were completely unfussed over the minor rapids that we

encountered and riders were able to explore little inlets and other geographic features that would have been out of bounds to even small boats.

We eventually ended the day with another evening’s gathering at Strahan, sharing observations of the day’s adventure over a few beverages.

Having ridden jetskis in a variety of ocean and inland waterways over many years, I found the day on Macquarie Harbour and the stretch up King River to be particularly fascinating. Being in the company of other riders made the ride all the more enjoyable as we compared observations and marvelled at the breathtaking scenery of the rugged west coast.

Jetskitas is a great model for ’ski enthusiasts who want to exploit the advantages of jetskis to access otherwise difficult or inaccessible waterways.

With rider behaviour being an ongoing issue in some areas, Dave Gray says the club is keen to dispel the hoon image that is all-toooften portrayed in the media.

“It’s really annoying to us when we see publicity about ’ski riders doing the wrong thing and annoying people,” he says. “As a club, we always emphasise that the water is there to be shared and we promote good behaviour to build the credibility of the club and jetskiing in general.”

Dave says the club is always on the lookout for new members and is currently looking at the possibility of hosting groups from the mainland on week-long adventure rides that would offer the full range of destinations and experiences, including river runs, lakes, and coastal and offshore islands for the more adventurous.

www. jetskitas.com

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