Sea-Doo Considers Apple CarPlay for Jet Skis: A New Frontier for In-Water Entertainment

While Tesla may be the last automaker anyone expected to consider CarPlay, there's an even more unlikely vehicle maker that could adopt Apple's infotainment feature in the future. Sea-Doo, the renowned personal watercraft manufacturer, is exploring the possibility of bringing Apple CarPlay to jet skis, marking a potential new frontier for in-water entertainment and connectivity.

CarPlay Isn't Just for Cars Anymore

CarPlay has been around for more than a decade, appearing in a variety of forms: aftermarket head units; nearly all new cars, trucks, and SUVs; wireless CarPlay adapters; and even portable displays. Last year, I spent a few months testing motorcycle CarPlay on a pair of two-wheeled, electric Can-Am bikes. Having access to music, navigation, and notifications while riding is a treat.

The Watercraft Connection

It turns out Can-Am's sibling brand Sea-Doo is also considering CarPlay adoption in the future. It makes sense: both brands are under the BRP company umbrella and already share the same 10.25-inch touchscreen entertainment system. However, Sea-Doo wants to be sure there's customer interest before investing in CarPlay adoption.

The system would require the presence of a microphone to work, just like on Can-Am two- and three-wheeled motorcycles. Off-road navigation would also limit the utility of map apps. Still, being able to stow your iPhone away in a safe, dry location while having access to communication and entertainment apps does sound like a great solution.

The Challenges of Waterborne CarPlay

Should we expect Sea-Doo to adopt Apple CarPlay? This is what global product strategy manager of Sea-Doo, Christian Comtois, told the Watercraft Zone publication:

"The best advantages would be access to music apps… but it's a lot of development for us to get there. That said, people want Apple CarPlay, it's sexy, we know how to use it our car. But is it really needed? Let's see. If it's needed we're going to bring it, eventually. It's very difficult to get Apple to (accept) an off-road application… or a powersports application. You need their approval and then you need the engineering so it fits our (instrument) cluster. […] Depending on the customer needs and how things are going to evolve, we're going to evaluate this."

The challenges are significant. Apple has strict requirements for CarPlay integration, and adapting the system for marine environments presents unique technical hurdles. Waterproofing, vibration resistance, and the practicality of using apps while operating a watercraft all need to be addressed.

The Can-Am Precedent

Sea-Doo's relationship with Can-Am already shows what's possible on their 10.25-inch touchscreen. The motorcycle integration demonstrates that CarPlay can function in powersports applications, though the marine environment presents additional challenges. The shared technology platform between the brands could potentially accelerate development if Sea-Doo decides to move forward.

The Potential Benefits

For jet ski enthusiasts, CarPlay integration could offer several advantages:

• Music streaming: Access to Apple Music, Spotify, and other audio apps while on the water
• Hands-free communication: Siri integration for calls and messages without handling your phone
• Weather updates: Real-time weather information for safer boating decisions
• Entertainment for passengers: Music and audio content for those being towed or riding along

Looking Ahead

CarPlay on a jet ski? It certainly sounds possible. Is CarPlay on the water something that could improve your experience? It sounds like Sea-Doo wants to know, and their relationship with Can-Am already shows what's possible on their 10.25-inch touchscreen.

As Apple continues to expand CarPlay beyond traditional automotive applications, we may see more unexpected integrations in the future. The question remains whether the demand justifies the development costs for Sea-Doo and whether Apple will approve such an unconventional application of their technology.

For now, Sea-Doo is gauging customer interest, and the watersport community waits to see if CarPlay will make a splash in the personal watercraft market.