Jet-Propelled Boats vs. Prop-Driven Boats

You'll have lots of choices to make when boat shopping, and it's best to begin by deciding between a jet-propelled or prop-driven boat. Here are the pros and cons of each to help you choose.

Jet-Propelled Boats

Some things to take into consideration with jet boats are the overall safety, handling and maneuverability of boats with a jet system. As far as safety, jet boats are safer for swimmers, children and water-sports enthusiasts. The reason for this is because you do not have a propeller behind your boat that is spinning, usually at a high rate of speed. This alone makes any activity in the water safer; however, there is still some risk. Things can and do get sucked into the jets. This could cause major problems for you and your boat. The cost of repairing a jet boat is also more expensive.

The handling of a jet boat is considerably better for most expert boaters. It can be slightly difficult for a novice boater to handle these boats. With a little practice, though, this process does become easier. When docking or loading your jet-propelled boat, everything is the opposite of a "regular" out drive.

As far as maneuverability, a lot of the points with this fall into the same situations as handling. There does seem to be an increased maneuverability with a jet boat, especially those equipped with what I call "bump steering." This is when the steering wheel is turned as far as it can move one way or another and it revs the engine. This helps in tight spots or if you are trying to make a tight turn. This is also a feature on some jet boats that is difficult to adjust to.

My knowledge about jet-propelled boats comes from owning a 22-foot Sea Doo Islandia. The jet-propelled system was one of the main reasons that we decided to trade it for an outboard boat.

Prop-Driven Boats

Prop driven boats have long been the standard with boaters. You can get all sorts of attachments and extras for your props. You can buy props made out of all types of materials such as aluminum, composite, stainless steel, bronze and special tow props for the fun water sports.

The prop driven boats are generally easier to handle, work on and maintain all around. Given as mentioned in the jet-propelled section, there are dangers if you are not aware of your surroundings. There is a real possibility of getting body parts and clothing hung in the prop. It is also fairly easy to knick your prop on limbs or stumps that are not visible to you in the water.

It's definitely cheaper to work on a prop-driven boat. If you are mechanically inclined and do well with garage type tools, chances are you can fix your own prop-driven boat without paying the $90-plus an hour that a certified dealer will charge to work on a jet-propelled boat. Overall handling and maneuvering of a prop boat is better for most boaters.

When deciding on what type of boat you want to purchase, considering the type of propelling system that the boat has is crucial. Do your research on all the types available. My husband and I have had several types of boats during our years as boaters, and long ago we decided that research always works best. Test drive different types of boats, ask any and all questions of your dealer, then research the information that they give you. I know I've said research several times, but that is the most important thing to do when purchasing a boat.