Yamaha Boats

By Jeff Hemmel | March 2023

Learn more about Yamaha boats by viewing our extensive collection of boat tests, reviews and other related content. Boating-exclusive content is produced by expert, longtime boating enthusiasts with extensive knowledge of the boating industry. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or just research the brand, our content is here to help.

Yamaha Wake Series

Yamaha traces its roots back to the company’s success in the personal watercraft market. It was there Yamaha produced its first jet propulsion engines, engines that quickly gained a reputation for both power and reliability. The company’s first boat, the 1995 Exciter, was a nimble, open-bow performer that showcased the advantages of jet propulsion. Today, the Yamaha Boats product line has matured into a collection of family-friendly, jet-powered runabouts. These include open-bow runabouts in the 19’-27’ range divided into all-around, watersports and luxury trim levels; five models from 22’-25’ aimed specifically at the fast-growing wake-surfing market; and seven fishing-focused, center-console models from 19’-25’. All use Yamaha Marine Engines in single or twin-engine pairings.

Quick Overview

Yamaha currently produces a diverse collection of jet-powered sport boats, all powered by Yamaha marine engines. Craft come in 19’, 22’, 25’ and 27’ lengths and are divided into recreational, watersports, luxury, and center-console models.

Boat Types Sport Boats, Wake Surf Boats, Center-Console Fish Boats
Hull Types Fiberglass V-hulls
Average Length/Size Sport Boats from 19’-27’; Wake Boats from 22’-24’6”; Center Consoles from 19’-24’6”
Fuel Types Gasoline
Cost of New Boats Priced comparably to similar personal watercraft/boats on the market
Cost of Used Boats Priced comparably to similar personal watercraft/boats on the market
Activity/Usage Types Recreational cruising; wakeboarding, waterskiing, tubing; wake surfing; coving/sandbar; fishing; diving

Types of Yamaha Boats

Yamaha builds a wide-ranging fleet of open-bow sport boats, including family-oriented models from 19’ – 25’, watersports-oriented models from 19’-25’, luxury models from 19’ – 27’, wakesurf models from 22’ – 25’ and center-consoles from 19’ – 25’. Depending on size, power is provided by single or dual Yamaha Marine Engines transferring their power to the water via enclosed jet pumps.

Yamaha Personal Watercraft Models

Yamaha builds and markets a wide range of Waverunner personal watercraft. There are lower-cost models and top-end models. Yamaha Waverunners can carry one, two to three people depending upon the specific model. A wide range of engines ensures that the Waverunner’s power can mate to the boat buyers’ desires. Whether for cruising, fishing, touring, or high-performance, Yamaha Waverunners suit many on-water activities.

Boat Tests & Reviews

As the most trusted source of boating information on the internet, Boating Magazine has produced in-depth reviews of over 15 Yamaha boats. These tests are conducted by an expert staff made up of true boating enthusiasts. Tests and reviews include not only performance testing and passenger amenities, but also dig deep into a boat’s construction, handling, and overall safety.

Yamaha 255 FSH Sport H cruising
2024 Yamaha 255 FSH Sport H
The 255 FSH Sport H is packed with fish-friendly standard amenities.
Yamaha 252SD running
2024 Yamaha 252SD
The 252SD combines powerful engines with a comfortable ride.
Yamaha 222XD wakeboarding
Boat Test: 2023 Yamaha 222XD
The 222XD is a fun wake-sports boat that's easy to operate and maintain.
Yamaha 222 FSH Sport E running
2023 Yamaha 222 FSH Sport E
The 222 FSH Sport E is built to fish and entertain.
Yamaha 222 FSH Sport E running on the water
2022 Yamaha 222 FSH Sport E
Jet-powered and packed to the max.
Yamaha 255XD pulling a wakesurfer
2021 Yamaha 255XD
The 255XD is Yamaha’s most surf-capable boat yet and comes stacked with unique features to make it a...

Yamaha Waverunner Boat Tests & Reviews

As the most trusted source of boating information in the world, Boating Magazine has produced in-depth reviews of over 18 Yamaha Waverunner PWC models. These tests are conducted by our expert staff made of true boating enthusiasts. Tests and reviews include not only performance testing and passenger and rider amenities, but also dig deep into a boat’s construction, handling, propulsion technology and overall safety.

Yamaha VX Cruiser HO cruising
2024 Yamaha VX Cruiser HO
The VX Cruiser HO mixes performance with cruising amenities.
Yamaha FX Limited SVHO in a turn
2023 Yamaha FX Limited SVHO
The FX Limited SVHO mixes luxury, accessories and performance.
Yamaha JetBlaster carving turns
2022 Yamaha JetBlaster
The Yamaha JetBlaster serves up a nimble ride.
Yamaha GP1800R SVHO at a mountain lake
2021 Yamaha GP1800R SVHO
This PWC is certainly a speed and performance machine, but you’ll find it’s even more than that.
Yamaha VX Limited HO with three riders
2021 Yamaha VX Limited HO
As the flagship model of the VX series, the Yamaha VX Limited HO is top-of-the-line in performance, comfort,...
Yamaha SuperJet in a tight turn
2021 Yamaha SuperJet
Completely revamped for 2021, the SuperJet is an iconic stand-up PWC that’s built for a whole new generation...

Boating Magazine has produced a variety of reviews of Yamaha boats and personal watercraft. Video adds another element to any boat review, allowing viewers to see and experience a boat’s features firsthand. Video reviews are hosted by Boating’s same expert editorial staff, enthusiastic boaters themselves who know what to look for in a boat or PWC…and how it will improve a viewer’s boating experience.

FAQs About Yamaha

Find the answers to frequently asked questions about Yamaha boats, including the types of boats Yamaha makes, where they’re produced and how to find a Yamaha boat that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Yamaha currently produces 29 models, with their focus split between recreational, luxury, watersports, wake surf and fishing-oriented center-consoles.

  • The list of 19’ models include the SX 190, AR 190, SX 195, AR 195, and 195S
  • 22’ models include the SX 220, AR 220, 222S, 222SE, and 222SD
  • 25’ boats include the SX 250, AR 250, 252S, 252SE, and 252SD
  • 27’ boats include the 275 SE and 275SDX
  • Wake Series models include the 222XE, 222XD, 252XE, 255XE, and 255 XD
  • Center Consoles feature the 190 FSH Sport, 195 FSH Sport, 220 FSH Sport, 222 FSH Sport, 222 FSH Sport E, 252 FSH Sport, and 255 FSH Sport E.

Yamaha Motor Corporation is headquartered in Kennesaw, Georgia. Yamaha Boats are assembled in Vonore, Tennessee.

Yamaha Boats exclusively use Yamaha Marine Engines in either naturally aspirated or supercharged versions.

Yamaha warrants that 2019 and newer Yamaha Boats purchased from an authorized Yamaha Boat dealer in the 50 U.S. States and Canada and registered for use in the 50 U.S. states and Canada will be free from defects in material or workmanship for the following periods:

  • Hull and Deck – Duration of ownership of the first retail owner for pleasure use; one year commercial use.
  • Engines, engine-related components, jet pump and jet drive pump-related components – One year from date of purchase for both Pleasure and Commercial use.
  • Components, except for those covered under Structural and Engine warranties – Three years from date of original purchase for Pleasure use, ninety (90) days for commercial use.
  • Cosmetic Imperfections in exterior cosmetic gelcoat finish (cracks, crazing, mold marks, etc) and upholstery — one year from date of original purchase for both Personal and Commercial use.

Yes, Yamaha boats are considered easy to maintain. Basic maintenance, including washing and waxing the fiberglass hull, flushing the engine (especially after use in saltwater), keeping engine compartments clean and dry, and cleaning and using protectant on vinyl surfaces will keep a Yamaha boat looking like new for years to come. Always follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including oil and filter changes, to ensure reliable, safe operation. Yamaha has a large dealer network that can perform more complex maintenance and service that is recommended to be performed by the dealer.

All Yamaha Boats can be used for recreational watersports, including skiing, wakeboarding and inflatable tubing. Swim platforms, tow hooks and reboarding ladders provide the necessary features to make watersports both fun and safe. Wake Series models are specifically designed to enhance the wakes for the sport of wake surfing. Jet propulsion eliminates exposed propellers in close proximity to surf riders. Hulls are also designed to sit lower in the water and offer features including external, wake-boosting hardware off the transom, onboard ballast systems, and intuitive touchscreen control.

As jet propulsion uses an enclosed impeller, Yamaha jet boats can safely be used for wake surfing. The Wake Series models are best as they’re specifically designed for the sport. They include surf-enhancing extras such as onboard ballast systems, wake-enhancing transom hardware, speed control and intuitive touchscreen controls.

Any of Yamaha’s many boat models can be used for recreational fishing. Center console models, however, are designed specifically for the task with features including overhead T-tops with integrated rodholders, leaning post helm seating, live wells and third-party electronics like large Simrad touchscreen displays.

Yamaha has one of the largest dealer networks in North America, and representation in countries around the world. Find your local Yamaha Boats dealer here.

How to Care for a Yamaha Boat

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