Strangely enough, Apple CarPlay could hit the water in the coming years. Sea-Doo confirms it’s looking at technology for future high-end personal watercraft-like jet ski models, according to a new report.
CarPlay could come to jet skis
But don’t expect to be whizzing by with CarPlay anytime soon. Sea-Doo faces several hurdles before the familiar iPhone interface with apps can become a reality Vessel Zone.
Current imaging technology
Seven of the 15 models in Sea-Doo’s 2026 lineup now come standard with a 10.25-inch touchscreen. This is the largest screen currently available on the jet ski market.
The same display sits on Can-Am three-wheeled motorcycles made by BRP Powersports, Sea-Doo’s parent company. Notably, Can-Am motorcycles equipped with this screen already support CarPlay.
Technical challenges ahead
Christian Comtois, Sea-Doo’s global product strategy manager, outlined the obstacles facing CarPlay integration. He emphasized that CarPlay is designed for road vehicles and faces limitations in marine environments. Navigation apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps would provide minimal benefits over Sea-Doo’s current imaging capabilities. They are not optimized for water navigation.
The primary benefit would be access to music streaming apps. But Comtois acknowledged that this would require significant development work. Technical requirements include adding a microphone to the vessel and other modifications to ensure compatibility with the instrument panel.
Approval process
In addition to the technical challenges, Sea-Doo must get approval from Apple for this unconventional application. Comtois noted that getting the green light from Apple for “powersports and off-road applications” is particularly difficult.
When asked about the company’s confidence that it would eventually receive approval, he said it was possible, but it would depend on customer demand and market developments.
Comtois’ consumers find CarPlay appealing because of their knowledge of the automotive industry. However, the company needs to evaluate whether this feature is really necessary for shipboard applications before proceeding with development.
The timeline remains uncertain
So Sea-Doo didn’t provide a specific time frame for when Apple CarPlay might start on its watercraft. The company takes a deliberate approach, balancing customer wishes with technical feasibility and development costs. As Comtois stated, the feature would emerge if customer needs justify the investment needed to overcome technical and approval issues.
For Apple users who love their iPhones and water sports, there remains the option of seamlessly integrating their favorite apps and music services while driving. But it may take a few years.