Considering a Jet Boat

[Scoop]

Hello all!

I am considering a Jet Boat purchase. I am really looking for an all around boat and these are my concerns after owning a Glastron Jet boat back in the 80's:

How much control over wake size do todays boats give you? I would like to ski occasionally and am concerned the wake is never flat enough for serious slaloming. I would consider a ballast option to increase wake size for boarding and surfing but my question is how flat can the wake get? I am not looking for a dedicated ski boat but rather an all purpose type of boat?

How is the noise level at idle or a low cruise speed?

How do these boats hold up in salt water? It would be on a boat lift out of the water when not in use.

I am considering a Yamaha 24' boat.

Any other considers that I should know about?

Thanks in advance.

 

[Julian]

I would like to ski occasionally and am concerned the wake is never flat enough for serious slaloming.

I'm an intermediate skier and the wake isn't an issue for me. Is it flat...no. But if you are also thinking about wakeboarding/surfing, then you are going to have to find a boat in the middle of those ranges. A 24' Yamaha makes a great all round boat. It isn't a dedicated wake boat...so you are going to have to add ballast to any model if you want a big wave, and it is going to take some effort. The stern swim platform is the primary attraction most families have with these boats! No props to worry about, and a majorly attractive party platform that can ski, wakeboard, and in a stretch wake surf if you are into it.

 

[buckbuck]

I don't know if it will be flat enough for serious slaloming but they work well for just having fun.

 

[Scoop]

Thanks. What about the noise levels in the Yamaha? Are they really a lot quieter than other jet boats?

Anyone keep their boat on a lift in a salt water environment?

 

[elcue]

I have a 2012 242 and its noisier than any I/O ive owned or been on. Not sure about any other jet drives or new models haven't been on them. I keep mine on a lift in saltwater. Holds up fine just flush and spray it down as you should any boat in salt water. I don't ski or board so cant help you there. These boats are light compared to others in same class I have choppy waters I wish it was a little heavier. This tends to bounce and drift when it gets choppy. Im sure the new keel has helped on the new boats but like I said previously nothing first hand.