The story of Jet Ski began when Clayton Jacobson II, the known inventor of the original personal water craft, sold the rights to his patent to Kawasaki.

The company began developing this personal water craft and in 1973, came the launch of their WSAA and WSAB models. These 2 are known to be the world's first Jet Skis. They were produced on a limited basis, powered by 2-stroke twin-cylinder engines. The WSAA was distinguished by a flat haul while the WSAB had a V-type hull.

The year 1976 brought Kawasaki to mass-produce their Jet Ski. This year gave birth to the JS400 (JS400-A) model. When the racers and water sport enthusiasts demanded for power, Kawasaki responded and gave them the JS440 (JS440-A). This model was one of the longest-selling Jet Skis made.

In the 80's, Jet Ski was more powerful with additional features. This era brought the JS550. It was the first Jet Ski model to come out with revised high-capacity mixed-flow pump that gave it more power for people who wanted to have more than the usual thrill. The JS550 had 531 cm3 2-stroke Twin. Feature included the automatic rpm control.

The 80's also gave birth to the JS300 (1986) that was hailed to be the beginner's Jet Ski, 650SX (1987) powered by a 635 cm3 2-stroke Twin, 300SX (1987) with 294 cm3 reed-valve Single with CD ignition, and the very first Kawasaki Jet Ski sit-down water craft, the two-seater Tandem Sport