Finding Small Aluminum Jet Boats: Where To Look?

Aluminum jet boats are highly versatile vessels that can be used for recreational activities, commercial purposes, and emergency response missions. They are characterized by their use of jet propulsion systems, which provide exceptional speed, maneuverability, and the ability to operate in shallow waters. If you're looking for a small aluminum jet boat, there are several options available in the market, including custom-built boats from companies like RiverRat Jet Boats, ARMOR Marine, and MotoJet. You can also explore the option of purchasing a used boat through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or buying a kit to build your own.

Mini jet boat manufacturers

If you're looking for a small aluminum jet boat, you're in luck! There are several manufacturers that specialize in these types of boats, offering a range of options to suit your needs. Here is an overview of some of the top mini jet boat manufacturers:

Jetstream Boats:

Jetstream is one of the pioneering mini jet boat manufacturers in North America. They offer a range of aluminum mini jet boat kits that provide everything you need for a home-built boat. Their boats are designed with advanced impact resistance and low planing speed, resulting in a nimble and lightweight package. Jetstream's experienced team has welded hundreds of hulls, ensuring the quality and durability of their products.

RiverRat Jet Boats:

RiverRat Jet Boats is the only USA manufacturer of MiniJet Inc. jet boats. Their hand-built aluminum mini jet boats are designed for shallow-water adventures. With a thick aluminum bottom and UHMW Poly lining, RiverRat boats can operate in less than 3 inches of water and withstand impacts from obstacles like rocks and trees. They offer customizable welded hulls, boat kits, intakes, parts, and services, making them a versatile choice for your mini jet boat needs.

ARMOR Marine:

ARMOR Marine is a well-known manufacturer of custom aluminum jet boats. While they don't specifically mention "mini" jet boats, they offer a range of recreational, commercial fishing, and patrol boat models. Their boats utilize jet propulsion technology, providing exceptional maneuverability and speed. ARMOR Marine is committed to safety and durability, using high-quality materials to create unsinkable boats that offer peace of mind on the water.

River Raptor Jet Boats:

River Raptor Jet Boats focuses on high-performance aluminum jet boats for rescue, patrol, and recreational applications. They offer a range of models, including the Talon, which is designed for mini jet boating adventures and adrenaline-pumping experiences. The Talon can handle swift water, high volume flow, and heavy loads, making it a versatile choice for thrill-seekers.

Indmar Marine Engines:

Indmar Marine Engines specializes in providing powerful and efficient propulsion systems for mini jet boats. Their MOTOJET mini jet boats, powered by the 2.3L EcoBoost and EcoJet Package, showcase their expertise in customer satisfaction and performance. While they may not be a dedicated boat manufacturer, their engines are sought-after by those looking for reliable and satisfying mini jet boating experiences.

These manufacturers offer a range of options for those seeking small aluminum jet boats. Whether you're an adventurer, a recreational user, or someone who values customization and performance, you can find a mini jet boat manufacturer that aligns with your specific needs and requirements.

Jet boat kits

If you're looking for a small aluminum jet boat, there are several manufacturers offering kits that can be assembled at home. These kits provide all the necessary parts to build your own mini jet boat, eliminating the cost and hassle of expensive plans and machinery. Here's a look at some of the options available for jet boat kits:

Jetstream Boats:

Jetstream is one of the leading manufacturers in the mini jet boat industry, offering kits for home-built aluminum mini jet boats. They provide all the required parts, including welded hulls, and offer advanced impact resistance with low planing speed in a lightweight package. Jetstream boats are known for their ease of assembly and high-quality materials. Their kits are available in various sizes, including 7', 10', and 12' options, and are designed for universal compatibility with most PWC engines. Additionally, they offer multi-kit discounts and direct shipping across North America.

RiverRat Jet Boats:

RiverRat Jet Boats specializes in hand-built aluminum mini jet boats, perfect for shallow-water adventures. Their boats are designed with a thick aluminum bottom lined with UHMW Poly, enabling them to run in less than 3" of water and withstand impacts from rocks or trees. RiverRat offers fully customizable jet boat welded hulls, boat kits, intakes, parts, and services. As the only USA manufacturer of MiniJet Inc. jet boats, they provide a unique boating experience for exploring creeks and streams.

Mini Jet Boats:

Mini Jet Boats offers high-grade aluminum jet boat kits in various sizes, including welded hull-only options. Their smallest kit, the 22 Caliber - 10' Hull, is designed for day trip adventures and can accommodate 2-stroke or 4-stroke motors from 85HP and up. They also offer larger options, such as the 45 Caliber 12' Classic Hull and the 50 Caliber 12' Wide Body Sport Hull, which provide more room and are suitable for families or hunters. These kits are perfect for those seeking agility and performance on river or lake excursions.

Wattscraft:

Wattscraft offers a range of hull kit sets in different sizes, including the 3m Jet Boat Hull Kit, 3.3m Jet Boat Hull Kit, and the larger 4.6m V8 adventure boat. Their kits provide a foundation for building your own jet boat, allowing for customization and adaptability to suit your specific needs.

Jet boat models

Aluminum jet boats are known for their reliability and use of a jet propulsion system. They are highly manoeuvrable, with powerful pump jets that draw water from under the boat and shoot it through a nozzle to create thrust. This allows them to operate in shallow waters, making them ideal for both recreational and commercial use.

ARMOR Marine offers a range of custom aluminum jet boats, including:

• Sentinel Cabin 25
• 24′ River Jet RHIB
• Bristol Bay 32 SP Twin Jet

RiverRat Jet Boats specializes in shallow-water boats with a 1/4" thick aluminum bottom lined with 1/2" thick UHMW Poly, allowing their boats to run in less than 3" of water. They offer:

• Fully customizable jetboat welded hulls
• Boat kits
• Intakes
• Parts
• Service

River Raptor Jetboats offers several models designed for rescue, patrol, and recreational applications. Their models include:

• SR-XR-8: 22' hull for water rescue and scene command, capable of transitioning between heavy river flow and lake operations.
• SR-XD: 20' hull for water rescue and scene command, featuring an exceptionally shallow draft for low water conditions.
• RECON: 20' hull for law enforcement and rescue operations on smaller, shallow waterways.
• XTR Series: Combines the attributes of a UHMW coated heavy-duty aluminum bottom boat and an inflatable boat with inboard jet propulsion, available in 18' and 15' versions.
• FTX: Western-style jet boat platform with a full walk-through windshield and open cockpit design, customizable for hunting, fishing, or utility load hauling.
• XR-8: 22', 8-degree hull, open bow style shallow water fishing boat with spacious decks and storage.
• XD: 20' hull, extreme-duty open bow-style shallow water fishing boat with higher sides and a raised intake, suitable for smaller lakes and bays.
• XR: 20', 6-degree hull, open bow, low-profile fishing boat available in various configurations.
• Raptor: High-performance, lightweight bass boat-style fishing boat.
• Talon: Mini jet boat for adventure boating and adrenaline-fueled fun.

MotoJet is another manufacturer that creates custom-built aluminum jet boats designed to explore smaller rivers and streams.

Jet boat applications

Aluminum jet boats are highly versatile, serving a wide range of applications across industries. They are renowned for their exceptional performance in shallow waters, with powerful pump jets that draw water from underneath the boat and forcefully shoot it through a nozzle, creating thrust and enabling smooth, efficient, and quick maneuverability. Here are some common applications for small aluminum jet boats:

Government Agencies

Government agencies frequently utilize jet boats for various operations, including emergency response missions, patrol operations, search and rescue missions, and marine research. The maneuverability and speed of jet boats make them well-suited for these diverse tasks.

Commercial Operations

In the commercial sector, jet boats are prized for their ability to quickly transport personnel, equipment, and supplies. Their speed and agility make them ideal for commercial operators who need to move goods and people efficiently, especially in shallow waters or areas with obstacles.

Recreation

Recreational users are drawn to aluminum jet boats for the thrill of high-speed boating and watersports. The quick maneuverability and speed offered by jet boats enhance the overall experience for enthusiasts exploring rivers or other shallow areas.

Law Enforcement and Rescue Operations

Aluminum jet boats are increasingly becoming the preferred choice for law enforcement and rescue operations. Their agility, speed, and shallow-water capabilities make them well-suited for swiftwater search and rescue missions, incident command, and law enforcement patrols in shallow waterways.

Fishing and Hunting

The versatility of aluminum jet boats extends to fishing and hunting expeditions. Their ability to navigate shallow waters and handle heavy loads makes them ideal for anglers and hunters looking to access remote areas. The spacious decks and storage capacity of some models further enhance their appeal for these activities.

Adventure Tourism

Adventure tourism is another growing application for jet boats. Their speed, maneuverability, and ability to operate in shallow waters make them perfect for thrilling experiences in diverse locations, from rivers to coastal areas.

Jet boat features

Aluminum jet boats are unique in that they use a jet propulsion system, which sets them apart from traditional propeller-driven boats. This system involves powerful pump jets that draw water from under the boat and forcefully shoot it through a nozzle, creating thrust and allowing the boat to move forward. This design gives jet boats the ability to operate in just a few inches of water while maintaining smooth, efficient, and quick maneuverability.

The versatility of jet boats makes them ideal for a wide range of applications, from government agencies to commercial operators to recreational users. They are commonly used for emergency response, patrol operations, search and rescue missions, marine research, transportation, and watersports.

One standout feature of jet boats is their speed and agility, with quick acceleration, remarkable top speeds, and the ability to come to a full stop in a short distance. This, combined with their shallow water capabilities, makes them perfect for navigating rivers and other shallow areas. The hull design of jet boats also contributes to their performance, with some models featuring a shallow vee, delta pad, and extra-wide bottom, allowing them to navigate tough riverbed terrain.

In terms of safety, aluminum jet boats are a good choice for situations with swimmers in the water, as they do not have external propellers. Additionally, some jet boat models are designed with safety features such as unsinkable designs and advanced marine security.

Overall, aluminum jet boats offer a combination of power, precision, and versatility, making them a popular choice for both professionals and boating enthusiasts.

Frequently asked questions