PERSONAL WATERCRAFT HAVING OFF-POWER STEERING SYSTEM

摘要

A watercraft is disclosed that includes a hull having port and starboard sid es and a propulsion system that generates a stream of pressurized water that exits through a nozzle. A helm operatively connects to the nozzle, whereby turning the helm turns the nozzle. A vane is connected to either or both of the port or starboard sides and is operatively connected to the nozzle. The vane is capable of pivoting inwardly and outwardly in response to steering signals. The vane can also mo ve between an operative position and an inoperative position based on pressure in the propulsion system. The vanes are designed to provide steering assistance whe n insufficient thrust is generated by the propulsion system to effectively ste er the watercraft.