Kawasaki started making jet skis in 1972. The first model introduced was the Kawasaki Jet Ski WSAA, which was a stand-up personal watercraft. This marked the beginning of the commercial production of personal watercraft and led to the popularization of “Jet Ski,” which has since become a generic term for all personal watercraft.

Here is a brief timeline of Kawasaki’s history with Jet Skis…

• 1972 – Kawasaki introduces the Jet Ski WSAA, the first commercially successful stand-up personal watercraft. This innovative model laid the groundwork for future developments in the industry.
• 1976 – Kawasaki releases the Jet Ski JS400, the first mass-produced stand-up personal watercraft. This model helped establish Jet Skis as a popular recreational vehicle.
• 1980s – Throughout the 1980s, Kawasaki continued to innovate and expand its Jet Ski lineup, introducing new models with improved performance and features. The company introduced the first sit-down jet ski, which made the sport more accessible to a broader audience.
• From the 1990s to the present, Kawasaki has continued to evolve its Jet Ski models, incorporating advanced technology, higher-performance engines, and various features to enhance user experience and safety. Today, Kawasaki remains one of the leading manufacturers of personal watercraft.

Kawasaki’s pioneering efforts in the 1970s significantly shaped the personal watercraft industry, and its Jet Ski brand continues to be synonymous with quality and performance in the world of water sports.