Jet Boat Battle: Which Brand Is Best?

Jet boats are full-size family runabouts with a bounty of features and amenities. They are propelled by a stream of high-intensity water directed through a nozzle instead of a propeller, which makes them safer for families with young children. They are also ideal for watersports enthusiasts as they offer sporty handling, a shallow draft, and are less likely to get damaged if you run aground.

When it comes to the best brand of jet boat, there are a few top contenders. Yamaha is one of the biggest builders of jet boats and offers a wide range of models and styles, including the SX240 High Output and the AR195. Scarab, another well-known name in jet boats, offers a range of affordable options like the Scarab 165 ID, which is both the least expensive and the smallest jet-powered runabout on the market. Chaparral, while not as well-known for jet boats, also offers a line of excellent and capable jet craft, including the 243 Vortex VR.

Other brands worth considering include Duckworth Boats, Sea-Doo Switch, Weldcraft Marine, and Rogue Jet Boatworks. Ultimately, the best brand of jet boat will depend on your specific needs and preferences, but with these top brands, you're sure to find one that fits the bill.

Best Fishing Jet Boats

If you're looking for a fishing jet boat, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best fishing jet boats available:

Yamaha FSH Line

The Yamaha FSH line is perfect for anglers, with its centre console design and T-top with four rocket launchers at the back. The 222 FSH Sport E, in particular, stands out as one of the most attractive offerings. This 22-footer has vertical rod racks on the console sides, an 18-gallon livewell in the transom, an insulated fish box in the bow, and a removable cooler underneath the leaning post. The "E" model also includes premium features such as a Simrad touchscreen MFD, Yamaha Drive Control, throttle by wire, and underwater lighting.

G3 Gator Tough Tunnel Jon Models

If you need a fishing boat that can handle rocky rivers and shallow waters, the G3 Gator Tough Tunnel Jon models are an excellent choice. These boats have all-welded aluminium hulls with tunnels to feed water to the jet, allowing them to sit higher than usual. They come with a range of fishing features, including livewells, locking rod storage, and options for factory-installed fish finders and electric trolling motors. They are also available in camo pattern finishes, making them ideal for hunters as well.

StealthCraft Power Drifter Sled Boats

The StealthCraft line of Power Drifter Sled boats offers a unique combination of power and the traditional drift boat experience. Their honeycomb-cored hulls are reinforced with laminated aluminium and are available in centre console and flat or modified-V hull bottoms. At the same time, they can also be rowed like traditional drift boats, giving anglers the option to fish in their preferred style.

Thunder Jet Chinook Pro

The Thunder Jet Chinook Pro is designed with the serious fisherman in mind. It features extra-deep sides, extra rod trays, and a progressive deep "V" hull. Thunder Jet boats are known for their heavy-gauge aluminium construction, providing durability and ease of maintenance. They also offer a lifetime transferable warranty on the hull for added peace of mind.

Yamaha 210 FSH

The Yamaha 210 FSH is another excellent option for a fishing jet boat. With twin TR-1 high-output Yamaha marine engines and jet drives, it has plenty of power for a 21-foot boat. The centre console design gives anglers more room to move around the deck, and it also has vertical rod racks, a dedicated bucket stowage, a livewell, integrated fish boxes, and a cooler. Additionally, the lack of dangling props or drives makes it ideal for skimming through shallow waters.

Best Aluminum Jet Boats

Aluminum jet boats are reliable boats that use a jet propulsion system. They are highly manoeuvrable and can operate smoothly and efficiently in just inches of water. This makes them excellent vessels for recreation and commercial use.

Rogue Jet Boatworks

Rogue boats are unusual in that they offer some of the best river jet boats for all-around boating use and for special purposes. They even make a "landing craft" series with a huge cargo deck and a drop-down bow. Rogue approaches each vessel as an individual project rather than building them on an assembly line, with 0.250” thick aluminium in impact zones and high-grade 5086 marine alloys in the hull and transom. These boats are so well built that Rogue offers a lifetime hull warranty.

Sea Ark

Sea Ark has one of the widest ranges of aluminium offerings, including a line called the MVJT Jon series, which is a tunnel-drive boat designed for jet outboards. Sizes range from the 1652 to the 2472 MVJT (16’ to 24’), and they also have some fishing-specific tunnel models. Like all SeaArk aluminium boats, these are built with extruded ribs, caprails, and keels, are wood-free with heavy-gauge aluminium decks, and are NMMA certified.

Thunder Jet

Thunder Jet builds a lineup of heavy-gauge aluminium jet boats, including both inboards and outboards, that run the gamut from river boats to ocean-going offshore fishing machines. The 185 Luxor, for example, has a 0.190” thick hull bottom and 0.125” sides. The lineup includes models ranging from 18’6” to 32’3” long, with dual console, cuddy cabin, and full cabin options. Each boat is highly customizable, with fishing packages, ski pylons, and multiple hard-top configurations available.

Jetstream

As one of the first mini jet boat manufacturers in North America, Jetstream is a leader in the aluminium mini jet boat industry. Jetstream mini jet boat kits provide everything you need to build your own aluminium mini jet boat at home, eliminating the cost and hassle of expensive plans and machinery. Their boats combine advanced impact resistance with low planing speed in a nimble, lightweight package.

ARMOR Marine

ARMOR Marine offers a wide range of custom low-maintenance aluminium jet boats, including patrol boat models, commercial fishing models, and recreational models. Their boats are designed in-house by an expert engineer using the latest in naval design technology. They use commercial-grade 5086 aluminium, which allows for extremely strong welds and a durable boat. ARMOR Marine is dedicated to creating beautiful, high-quality, and safe boats.

Best Jet Boat Tender Brands

Inboard jet boats are excellent choices as yacht or luxury vessel tenders. They are more compact than regular outboard tenders and can be beached without worrying about damaging the propeller. Here are some of the best jet boat tender brands:

AB Inflatables

The Diesel, XP, and S series RIBs by AB Inflatables are designed as dedicated yacht tenders, with a focus on carrying the maximum number of passengers. Even their smallest boat can carry four people and is under 10 feet long. The boats are powered by Rotax ACE and 4-TEC jet engines or a turbocharged Yanmar 4JH110 diesel engine. The tubes are made from 820 Orca CSM fabric, which is weatherproof, chemical-resistant, and abrasion-resistant.

Castoldi

Italian brand Castoldi crafts a range of 14- to 28-foot RIB jet tenders, as well as a 34-foot Limo model. Their unique designs integrate the tubes into the gunwales and bow for a sleeker look. Several of their models are SOLAS-approved rescue boats with a self-righting system. Castoldi also manufactures its own waterjet drives, which are used on many commercial, military, and recreational vessels.

Williams Jet Tenders

Williams Jet Tenders offers a wide range of inflatable RIB jet boat tenders, from a 9-foot Mini Jet that seats three people to a 23-foot model that can accommodate up to 13 passengers. They offer both gasoline and diesel-fueled options, and their designs include features like quick-deflating bows and lifting points for easy storage and handling. Williams even designs some of their tenders to match specific yacht models for optimal storage and performance.

These brands stand out for their focus on jet boat tenders, offering a range of options to suit different needs, from compact and portable boats to larger, feature-rich models.

Best Affordable Jet Boats

Jet boats are a great option for family fun on the water, with their sporty handling, shallow draft, and safety features. While there are only a couple of major builders in the market, there are still plenty of affordable options to choose from. Here are some of the best affordable jet boats you can consider:

Lowe Boats

Lowe Boats is a popular choice for those seeking an affordable jet boat option. They offer a wide range of models, including tunnel jet boats and standard aluminium boats that can be fitted with jet outboards. As a large manufacturer, Lowe benefits from economies of scale, allowing them to offer competitive pricing without compromising on features. Their boats cater to fishing, watersports, and even include some luxury touches.

Sea-Doo

While Sea-Doo is known mostly for personal watercraft, they also offer the Switch models, which are tri-toons with rotomolded polyethylene hulls and jet drives. These smaller boats come at a relatively affordable price point, making them a great option for those on a budget. Sea-Doo's personal watercraft provide a fun and exciting experience on the water, perfect for those new to boating or looking for a more compact option.

Scarab

Scarab Boats offers a range of jet boats, including the 165 ID, which is one of the most affordable and compact options on the market. Starting at $27,452, the 165 ID can accommodate up to five people and has enough power to tow wakeboards or water toys. It comes with a custom-matched trailer and a lightweight package, making it easy to transport. The boat also includes features like aft-facing seats, a ski tow bar, cruise control, and a Bluetooth stereo system, providing a well-rounded experience.

If you're looking for a larger option, Scarab also offers the 195 ID, starting at $40,382, which can carry up to eight passengers and includes additional features such as a trailer with brakes, a Bluetooth stereo system, and a ski tow eye.

For an even bigger boat, the 215 ID, starting at $52,675, can accommodate up to 10 people and offers enhanced features for watersports enthusiasts, including a ballast system, a hinged tower with board racks, and a Bimini top.

Yamaha

Yamaha is one of the biggest builders of jet boats, offering a wide range of models and styles. One of their affordable options is the SX190, starting at $30,649. This 19'5" long boat can carry up to eight passengers and comes packed with features like snap-in marine carpet, tilt steering, a removable cooler, courtesy lighting, a touchscreen monitor, a Bluetooth stereo system, a tow hook, a Bimini top, and a single-axle trailer. The SX190 is powered by Yamaha's TR-1 HO engine, providing excellent performance on the water.

For those seeking a watersports machine, Yamaha offers the AR195, starting at $38,849. This boat is built on the same hull as the SX190 but includes upgrades such as a larger high-pressure pump, aluminium handles, pop-up cleats, a windshield mirror, and a folding aluminium wakeboard tower. The AR195 is equipped with a supercharged engine, delivering 20% more power for watersports enthusiasts.

Chaparral

Chaparral, known for its elegant and conservative styling, offers the 243 Vortex VR, starting at $55,995 with a trailer. This boat can accommodate up to 12 people and provides a versatile experience, catering to both those who want a comfortable cruising experience and those seeking wake-surfing adventures. The 243 Vortex VR is equipped with twin Rotax 200-horsepower engines, delivering a top speed of around 52 MPH. With its elegant design and powerful performance, the Chaparral 243 Vortex VR is a great choice for those seeking a blend of style and functionality.

Top Jet Boat Brands

Jet boats are a popular choice for small runabouts, offering sporty handling, a shallow draft, and peace of mind for families with young children due to the absence of a spinning propeller. While there are only a few major builders in the market today, there is a diverse range of jet boat models available to suit different needs and budgets. Here are some of the top jet boat brands to consider:

Scarab

Scarab is synonymous with jet boats, known for their high-performance, well-crafted boats with a focus on performance, handling, and comfort. Their boats offer ample storage for wet gear and modular seating arrangements. The Scarab 255 HO, with its integral swim platform and opposing hatches, is ideal for watersports enthusiasts. The Scarab 165 ID, starting at $27,452, is the most affordable and smallest jet-powered boat in its class, accommodating up to five people. For a larger option, the Scarab 215 ID offers a capacity of 10 people and enhanced watersports features, starting at $52,675.

Yamaha

Yamaha is one of the biggest builders of jet boats, offering a diverse lineup to suit various needs and budgets. Their models are well-equipped and offer excellent performance and handling. The Yamaha SX190 is a great "starter" boat, measuring 19'5" long and 8'2" wide, with a passenger capacity of eight and a base price of $30,649. For watersports enthusiasts, the Yamaha AR195 enhances performance and includes a watersports tower. If wake surfing is your passion, the Yamaha 212XE, starting at $64,849, offers a ballast system and a premium sound system.

Chaparral

Chaparral offers a range of excellent jet craft, including the 243 Vortex VR, which blends elegance and performance. With a capacity of up to 12 people, it offers versatile seating arrangements and twin Rotax 200-horsepower engines, delivering a top speed of around 52 MPH. The Chaparral 243 Vortex VR starts at $55,995 with a trailer.

Rogue

Rogue Jet Boatworks offers a unique approach to jet boats, building each vessel as an individual project. Their boats are exceptionally well-built, featuring thick aluminum in impact zones and high-grade marine alloys in the hull and transom. They offer a lifetime hull warranty, which speaks to the quality of their construction.

AB Inflatables

AB Inflatables specializes in jet boat tenders, ideal for larger yachts and luxury vessels. Their inflatable RIBs are designed for easy storage and maximum passenger capacity. The Diesel, XP, and S series are powered by Rotax ACE and 4-TEC jet engines or turbocharged Yanmar diesel engines. The tubes are made from durable 820 Orca CSM fabric, providing resistance to weather, chemicals, and abrasion.

Castoldi

Castoldi is an Italian builder of jet tenders, offering models ranging from 14' to 28', as well as a 34' Limo. Their boats feature sleek styling, with tubes integrated into the gunwales and bow for a distinctive look. Castoldi designs their hulls specifically for jet propulsion, and some models are even SOLAS-approved rescue boats with a self-righting system. They also manufacture their own waterjet drives, which are used in various commercial, military, and recreational vessels.

Williams Jet Tenders

Williams Jet Tenders provides a range of inflatable RIB jet boats, from a 9'2" Mini Jet for three people to a 23'3" model that seats up to 13. Their boats are designed as tenders, with features like quick-deflating bows and lifting points for easy storage and handling. They offer both gasoline and diesel-fueled options to suit different needs.

Lowe Boats

Lowe Boats is a popular choice for jet boats, offering a wide range of models, including tunnel jet and standard aluminum boats that can be rigged with jet outboards. As a large builder, Lowe benefits from economies of scale, providing well-equipped boats at competitive prices.

Sea-Doo

While known primarily for personal watercraft, Sea-Doo also offers jet boats, including the Switch models, which are tri-toons with rotomolded polyethylene hulls and Rotax jet drives. Sea-Doo provides a more affordable option for those seeking the thrill of a jet boat without breaking the bank.

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