Many watercraft owners are apprehensive about operating their personal watercraft in the ocean because of the damage salt water can cause. While it is true that salt is extremely corrosive and can do a great deal of damage to your watercraft, there are some steps you can perform to reduce, if not completely eliminate the risk. After operating your PWC in salt water, you should:

1. Flush out the engine using the fresh water flush attachment, which is typically installed as standard equipment on most personal watercraft. Since the procedures for flushing out the engine can vary from watercraft to watercraft, it is important to reference your owner's manual for additional help. For example, some watercraft may require you to have the engine running when flushing it out.
2. Completely wash down both the inside and outside of the watercraft with soapy water. A car wash soap should be fine. It is not a good idea to use dish washing soap as they are typically designed to break down grease and may remove grease from parts you want to keep well lubricated. Make sure to remove all salt deposits and then rinse thoroughly.
3. Let the watercraft drain completely.
4. Apply spray silicone lubricant to all exposed metal surfaces especially around the engine area and control cables, re-grease all factory installed grease zerk fittings.
5. Dry and wax outer hull surface with a good grade wax.

If all of these steps are followed there is little to no chances any damage will occur due to you riding in salt water.