5 Best Jet Skis for Tow Sports (Tubes, Water Skiing & Wakeboarding)

Towing People With Jet Ski

A jet ski can be a great way to experience our local waterways, but buying one that can tow others behind opens up an entirely new world of possibilities.

Personally, I love the notion of being able to use a jet ski for more than one purpose. And considering that most jet skis today have a tow hook at the rear, it’s only more reason to make the most of things.

Jet Ski Tow Sports
5 best jet skis for tow sports (tubes, water skiing & wakeboarding) 4

Then again, not all of them are properly set up for towing effective. The Sea-Doo Spark, for instance, can tow tubers but doesn’t make for the most enjoyable experience and the engine itself does struggle.

So in this guide, I’ll show you 5 jet skis to consider if towing tubes, wakeboarders and waterskiers is your thing. I have no bias in my recommendations and it’s based on my own research since I too was looking for the right model for my family.

The most popular jet skis for tow sports are:

1. 2022 Sea-Doo Wake Pro

Did you know that Sea-Doo actually made a model EXACTLY for tow sports? Similar to their fishing model, they listened to the needs of the PWC community and created the Wake Pro 230 and previously it came in a 155 and 170 HP variances.

What’s need about this jet ski isn’t just the wakeboard rack or the massive space at the rear for passengers to get themselves ready, nor is it the massive amount of storage. It’s actually the hull designed matched with the engine technology allowing for a stable ride for those standing. It’s not really designed as such for total recreational riding solo, so you wouldn’t go reaching 60-knots with this but as for entertaining others, you’ve got the perfect machine.

2. 2022 Yamaha FX LTD SVHO

Yamaha hasn’t really got a jet ski that’s created from the ground up for tow sports, but they do have the FX LTD SVHO which is close enough. Its performance specs means that you’ll have no problem in having yourself, your spotter and two people at the rear on a large tube. Better yet, you can still ride this on your own and have an awesome time.

3. 2022 Sea-Doo GTI/GTR

I really love the GTR and it’s my choice of jet ski here in Australia. In the United States, it’s known as the GTI which pumps our 230 horsepower which is more than enough to tow 2 adults on a tube. Better yet, it’s more affordable than the Wake Pro while also being more than capable of being ridden in the ocean.

When I head down to my local waterways here, it doesn’t take me too long to see this model out there either cruising around or towing others with a smile on everyone’s face. If you’re aiming to ride solo 70% of the time and tow others 30% of the time, then this is a great option as the perfect middle ground.

4. 2021 Yamaha FX Cruiser HO

A good alternative to Sea-Doo’s GTR230 is the FX Cruiser HO. It sits in the performance category while also being reasonably affordable and easy to handle. Its super-charged engine can give a bit of a boost to those needing to stand up quickly, while the deep seats provide something for the riders to brace on to, together with a good-sized swim deck for getting set up.

5. 2022 Yamaha VX Limited HO

The last on my list is the Yamaha VX Limited HO. This is in Yamaha’s recreation category and it wouldn’t be my first choice when it comes to a jet ski for tow sports because the naturally aspirated engine can struggle to get water skiers up on plane. You see – it’s not just about engine capacity but acceleration capacity too. If you’re simply towing your kids around on tubes or even a banana boat, then this is no problem at all. Best of all, it’s roughly half the price of all the other models on this list!

Getting Started

Now that you’ve got some fair idea of what jet ski you’ll want to buy, now it’s time to head into the dealerships. Both Yamaha and Sea-Doo have competitive financing options so you can ride away without spending a fortune. I’d budget around $2,000 for the extras such as a trailer, registration, insurance, life jackets and tubes for some fun future weekends on the waterways!

Happy hunting and I’ll see you out there real soon!

4 Best Jet Skis for Ocean and Saltwater Riding in 2022

Salt Water Jet Ski

A lot of newer jet ski owners stick to riding in lakes and rivers, but they’re completely missing out on some serious fun. In some cases, they just don’t have the right jet ski.

If you’re out there shopping for a new performance-orientated jet ski that can handle the punishment of the open ocean, then you’re in the right place! I’ve done the research to show you what’s worth looking into.

Ocean Jet Ski
4 best jet skis for ocean and saltwater riding in 2022 10

Best Jet Ski for Salt & Rough Water

The lighter jet skis in the recreational-lite range just aren’t really capable to handle the rough waters of the ocean. Even the recreational models like the GTI and the VX often can struggle to get up on plane and knock over those rogue waves.

Best Jet Ski For The Ocean
4 best jet skis for ocean and saltwater riding in 2022 11

These are the most powerful jet skis for the ocean:

1. 2022 Sea-Doo RXT-X / RXP-X

If you want a beast of a jet ski that can handle even 2 to 3-foot swell, then you’re going to be spending quite a few dollars. The most expensive jet skis of 2021 are the Sea-Doo RXT-X at $26,599 as well as the RXP-X at $24,799 which is approximately 3 times more expensive than jet skis typically cost. For that outlay, you can certainly expect not just massive power on tap (a 300-hp Rotax engine is standard) but the weight of the PWC helps it to power through the surf. Either would certainly be my first choice personally, but not every one’s first choice either which brings us on to the next model.

2. 2022 Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO

The biggest contender to Sea-Doo’s powerhouse models is the FX Cruiser SVHO and let me tell you, this one is a beast! Expect your arms to be real sore after just a couple of hours on this weapon of a machine. I do find the Sea-Doo range to be better equipped to really tackle the hard stuff but there isn’t much that the FX Cruiser couldn’t knock off. A 30-mile ride between islands or heading to the Bahamas should be no problem at all for this weapon.

3. 2022 Sea-Doo GTX Limited

Another Sea-Doo to consider is the GTX which is a more toned-down version of the RXT-X and RXP-X models. If you’ll fear that the power would be too excessive but you still want to plow down through the tough ocean swell, then I can recommend the GTX especially as it’s more budget-friendly. You’ll also find some luxury features such as a swim platform and Bluetooth speakers.

4. 2022 Yamaha FX HO

Much like the GTX, Yamaha’s FX HO is a tuned-down version of its big brother rival. If you’re the type that will struggle with so much power on tap, or you simply want performance in a lighter hull, then this one is for you. More than enough power to ride between islands yet easy enough to load back on the trailer after a heavy day of riding. Plus it’s more affordable too!

In Summary

There you have it! You’ll need some serious dollars in the bank account to move towards purchasing one of these big machines and some muscle power too. It takes a certain type of individual who is committed to handling all the power on tap.

In most cases, it’s best to hit the open ocean solo though tandem is acceptable in calm conditions. As always, check the weather forecast and tide tables. Also, given the power that these machines have, the dealers can provide a solid orientation and there will always be a learner mode if you need the power to be tuned down.

Stay safe and I’ll catch you out there!

5 Best Jet Ski Choices for Rental Business Fleet

Jet Skis For Rental Business

So you’re looking to start your very own rental business. That’s the dream of many individuals looking to combine their passion with their daily work.

Now – your biggest expenditure is the purchase of your fleet. You might be looking to buy 4 to 10 jet skis in bulk from one of the main manufacturers. For that reason, I created this very simple guide to steer you in the right direction.

Pwc Models For Hire Company
5 best jet ski choices for rental business fleet 15

After looking at the purchase choices and preferences of numerous hire companies across the world, I’ve come to these conclusions. None of these is based on brand preferences or allegiances since I’m not a fanboy of either brand and would easily own both.

Kawasaki, given they are performance-orientated, doesn’t have any jet skis suitable for the rental industry and so you’re left with only Yamaha and Sea-Doo to work with. It’s generally the rec-lite series that works best to reduce upfront expenditure and ongoing maintenance costs.

These are the best choices for a jet ski rental fleet:

1. 2022 Sea-Doo GTI 90

I did the research and found the GTI 90 is ideal for the rental industry as its upfront cost is quite reasonable and the non-supercharged model is great for reducing your fuel overheads. Not only this, but it’s quite safe as a jet ski and won’t cause concern for the individual since the power is quite tame.

Some companies I researched also went for the GTI 130 but this is really best for those who are running open ocean tours. If you’re only running a lake-side rental business, then the GTI 90 makes the perfect model.

2. 2022 Yamaha EX and EX Deluxe

The EX really does mirror the GTI 90 quite well and if you’re a Yamaha fan, then this model will suit your business very well. I did see slightly more business owners choosing the GTI 90 but the EX is actually slightly cheaper although its mid-2000’s aesthetics don’t look quite that good for Instagram

Yamaha has their own in-house finance and could help you set up the entire business with remarkably low-interest rates. The EX Sport and Delux models are also excellent if you don’t like the aqua-look of the 2021 EX.

3. 2021 Sea-Doo Spark

Now some people would wonder why I didn’t list the Spark as the first on this list, and there are several reasons for this. It’s a great model and excellent for a rental business fleet, but it may struggle to attract hirers.

You see, some people really know their jet skis well and the Spark is largely considered to be quite slow and doesn’t quite perform that well. Some individuals may choose one of your competitors if they have the EX and GTI 90 as their slightly more powerful. I would opt for the 2021 model for price savings in the used market if you choose this for your rental fleet.

4. 2022 Yamaha VX-C

Sometimes the recreational-lite series just isn’t enough for riding in some areas. If you’re planning to head out into the ocean and expect the entire party to be hauling at 40-knots, then the Spark and other models will struggle with their lighter hull design.

The VC-C is a recreational jet ski that starts to verge into the performance spectrum. If riders have a passenger then this ski will better cut through the waves leaning to a smoother ride without feeling like being thrashed around.

5. 2022 Sea-Doo GTX

The last on our list is actually one of my favorite jet skis for first-time riders! It also happens to be ideal for the hire industry as an ocean-going contender. The GTI SE is also a great model to consider in this spectrum.

While some would say that the GTX is an overkill for first-time riders and in some sense I would agree, but sometimes you need the right jet ski for the owner or tour leader. Then this is the model I would choose as it’s possible to tow a broken down jet ski if it happens (and it does happen, but it’s rare). The cost of the GTX (almost 2.5x the cost of a Spark) obviously puts off many who have a hard budget for the entire fleet.

Getting Started

There we have it! 5 top choices for fitting out your rental fleet with personal watercraft. You’ll have some budget options as well as those better suited for when conditions aren’t so glassy.

I’ve also created a guide on How to Start A Jet Ski Rental Business which is a worthwhile read. It really does give you the lowdown on what one should expect.

Also, don’t forget about the importance of locations, marketing and reliability. It’s not just about the actual fleet at the end of the day. You could get a discount on some used models but the dealers often provide a volume discount on the new models as you effectively become a marketing channel for them. In other words, the riders become excited and decide to buy a PWC themselves.

If one dealer says no to a volume-based discount and letting you effectively advertise for them…then go to the next one! It’s that easy.

Catch you out there!

2022 Sea-Doo Spark vs Yamaha Ex: Which One is Better?

Seadoo Spark Vs Yamaha

The 2022 model Yamaha Ex and Sea-Doo Spark are perfectly suited to those entering the world of personal watercraft. Let’s see which one is better.

In earlier days the fun and excitement of jet skis were far out of reach. Today that has really changed with the introduction of the rec-lite category.

Through this guide, I’ll unpack the 2022 Sea-Doo Spark and compare it to the Yamaha Ex by the numbers including price and power capacity.

Sea-Doo Spark Vs Yamaha Ex

With this new breed of cheaper personal watercraft, it makes the thrill much more accessible. While performance is largely tame, let’s have a look at what each model delivers.

If you’re new to the world of personal watercraft, then Jet Ski enthusiasts are very much polarised. You’ve got the Yamaha fanboys and the Sea-Doo fanboys. No matter what – each will say theirs is best. We really need to get down to the numbers.

Yamaha Ex vs Sea-Doo Spark

By the numbers, we can see that each machine is relatively close in their specifications. I’ll compare this for both those in Australia and those in the United States.

2022 Sea-Doo Spark 2-UP2022 Sea-Doo Spark 3-UP2022 Yamaha Ex
Pricing in USD$5,699$6,990$7,199
Pricing in AUD$8,769NANA
Stock Horsepower60901049cc / 100hp
(Approximates)
Upgrade CapacityNoneNoneLimited
Maximum Passengers233
Towing TubesNoNoYes, but limited
Dry Weight410lbs / 186kg425lbs / 193kg577lbs / 261kgs
Wet Weight520lbs / 235kgs543lbs / 246kg601lbs / 272kgs
Weight Capacity352lbs / 160kg450lbs / 205kg529lbs / 240kgs
Measurements (L x W x H)110″ / 279cm
46.4″ / 118cm
41″ / 105cm
120″ / 305cm
46.4″ / 118cm
41″ / 105cm
120″ / 305cm
45″ / 111cm
43″ / 112cm
Fuel Capacity7.9 US gal / 30L7.9 gal / 30L13.2lbs / 50L
Front Storage Space7 US gal / 27L7 US gal / 27L8 US gal / 30L
Colors AvailableBlack + Orange
White + Blue
Lime + Blue
Black + Orange
White + Blue
Lime + Blue
Yellow + White
(US model)
Red + Black
(Australian model)
AssemblyImportedImportedUSA / Australia

So we can instantly see some clear distinctions, but also similarities too.

Australians get access to the red + black EX which in my opinion looks a lot better and more like a performance jet ski. It doesn’t do much justice to Yamaha with their dull yellow + white color scheme on the EX.

Sea-Doo Spark Vs Yamaha Ex
The seadoo spark is very basic but a great machine for total beginners.

The EX Advantage

While the Yamaha Ex does cost extra to purchase, it comes with a host of advantages:

  1. More power to have fun (Beyond the rec-lite category)
  2. Greater fuel capacity so you can get further away from the boat ramp.
  3. A heavier weight which equals a more enjoyable riding experience.
  4. The ability to tow tubes, though this is really limited to low speeds.
  5. It’s much easier to mount a jet ski and fishing rod holders.
Yamaha Ex
2022 sea-doo spark vs yamaha ex: which one is better? 25

I would say the EX certainly stretches beyond the recreational-lite segment average offerings.

Their higher spec models such as the Ex Sport, Ex Deluxe and EXR are certainly more powerful.

Now, let’s drill down a little further.

Power On Tap

The 2021 Sea-Doo Spark has 600 ACE engine producing 60hp, or for the additional outlay, you can choose the 900 HO ACE option which provides 90hp.

You’ll have a lot more fun with the 90hp output and will struggle to bring passengers with just 60hp on tap.

Can-Am isn’t really famous for their reliable engines.

The Spark models, however, often have fewer issues.

Jet Ski Fast
It’s a lot more fun on the ex!

The 2022 version of Yamaha’s Ex has a more reliable engine producing 1049cc or approximately 100hp.

It is a slightly heavier personal watercraft, so which there appears to be greater performance than the Sea-Doo Spark offerings, this is negligible.

Both provide a mild amount of power for the first-time person entering the PWC market.

Extra Features

The fuel tank capacity is greater with the EX, but also so is the storage capacity.

I like Yamaha’s choice of touring and sport mode.

Now, this performance is very tame in my opinion when comparing this today against their legendary performance machines.

The Spark comes with a well known closed loop cooling system.

I believe this is more superior in their technological offering.

At the same time, you’ll have more maintenance needed to keep it in top shape.

Tow Sports

The Sea-Doo Spark models are terrible choices for tow sports.

The likelihood of towing a tube or waterskier is very limited as the power on tap is so minimal. That isn’t to say that you can’t tow someone – it’s just going to be more challenging.

On the flip side, you can tow tubes and skiers with the Yamaha EX. Given the power limitations, I wouldn’t recommend it. If you have the budget, I would purchase a slightly more powerful jet ski than either of these two if tow-sports are your main activity.

Affordability

It’s clear that the Yamaha EX is more expensive than the Sea-Doo Spark.

If you’re looking for the cheapest jet ski on the marketplace, then you simply can’t go past the Sea-Doo Spark rec-lite range.

It’s clear that Can-Am has addressed the affordability issues with jet skis.

But with a cheap jet ski comes the real downside of limited fun.

I mean – you’re out there to have a smile on your face without the restrictions!

After just a few months you’re likely to get bored and wish you had a more powerful jet ski.

I would actually recommend that you hire a jet ski first. See- most rental shops use the Yamaha EX or the Sea-Doo GTI 90/130.

This is because, while the Spark is cheaper, it has its slight limitations in performance.

Similarities

It’s great that I can compare both jet skis quite fairly. This is because they are alike in so many ways.

Let’s have a look at some key points:

  1. Each jet ski is addressing the customer who values affordability.
  2. Both provide warranties to their customers who purchased new.
  3. You can load both the Spark and EX on to a dual/tandem trailer.
  4. Yamaha and Sea-Doo both offer jet ski + trailer packages at dealers.
  5. Fuel consumption. Both are some of the most fuel-efficient PWCs.

While the EX does cost more, here in Australia you’ll see Yamaha Motor Finance often providing rates at just 1% to its customers to incentivize them to make a purchase.

You might also see the same type of deals in the United States.

Summary of Comparison

If you can afford it, I would get a Yamaha EX. That said, the Spark does pack a great value offering.

My opinion is that Yamaha EX is just slightly better than the Sea-Doo Spark models because often people just have much more fun with the EX. This is despite me being more of a preference towards Sea-Doo as a brand (though you wouldn’t consider me a fanboy by any means…)

With the EX you’ll have more power and enhanced personal watercraft stability, though the Spark is only marginally behind by 3%. Like really….that close!

For a 1st-time jet ski user, each both delivers a fantastically affordable way to enter the fun on the waterways. Either way you go, you’ll actually just have fun either way!

Catch you out there!

Sea-Doo Trixx vs Sea-Doo Spark: Which is Best? (2022 Update)

Seadoo Spark Vs Seadoo

Sea-Doo continues to reinvest the wheel with the launch of new jet ski models, and their current offering such as the Trixxx is no exception to that rule.

In this guide, I’ll show you the main differences between the 2022 Sea-Doo Spark vs the 2022 Sea-Doo Spark Trixx with a direct comparison.

Let’s have a good look at how they’re different.

Trixx vs Spark

I’ll launch this comparison report with the specifications of both models at a glance. The Spark actually comes in two variations, and to make this fair, I’ll use the 3UP model which is more powerful at 90hp instead of the relatively tame 60hp.

2022 Sea-Doo Spark Trixx2022 Sea-Doo Spark
Pricing in USA$7,899 2up
$8,499 3up
$5,699 2up
$6,990 3up
Pricing in Australia$8,769 2up
$10,999 3up IBR
$12,069 2up
$12,969 3up
Engine Power90hp only60hp or 90hp
Fuel Burn2 US Gal per hour
7.4 litres per hour
2.5 Gal per hour
9.1 litres per hour
Seating Capacity2 or 32 or 3
Colors availableLava Red / Deep Black
Dazzling Blue / Deep Black
Orange Crush / Lava Red
Reef Blue / Mantra Green
Dry weight422lbs / 192kgs425lbs / 193kg
Wet weight537lbs / 243kbs543lbs / 246kg
Top speed44 miles per hour
67 kilometres per hour
43 miles per hour
65 kilometres per hour
Tow sportsLimitedLimited
Dimensions (L x W x H)119″ / 203cm
46.1″ / 116cm
41″ / 105cm
120″ / 305cm
46.4″ / 118cm
41″ / 105cm

So from that table, there doesn’t seem to be much of a difference apart from the higher pricing. Many journalists know that these models share the same specs in many ways.

Let’s actually take a step back for a moment.

How the Trixx Differs

The base model is the Sea-Doo Spark. Consider the Trixx to be a reasonably good upgrade from the original.

Seadoo Spark Trixx Beached
Sea-doo trixx vs sea-doo spark: which is best? (2022 update) 37

The main differences (or rather, upgrades) are:

  1. Adjustable handlebars just like a motocross bike.
  2. Step wedges so you can do tricks like the promotional videos.
  3. Inclusion of a variable trim system so you can change the ride style.
Sea-Doo Spark Trixx Trailer
The lightweight nature of this jet ski lets you launch without a proper boat ramp!

Let’s go a little deeper with each of these features.

Adjustable handlebars

By far the most popular feature is the handlebars. For people who are quite tall, these bars are quite helpful obviously. The main reason why this feature is here is to help people do “wheelies” and other tricks on the water.

Sea Doo Trixx Handlebars
With the adjustable handlebars you can do tricks with the ‘trixx’ – hence the name.

The Sea-Doo Trixx handlebars provide almost 6 inches of additional height. That height gives you the ability to move around more freely so you can learn and play with your watercraft. Certainly for straight out riding and cruising around you’ll want to keep it in the lowered position.

If you watch the promotional videos about the Trixx, you’ll see that everyone has their handlebars up high. That leverage allows them to sit back further on their jet ski.

Wedges for your feet

Ever noticed how those cool riders in the hero photos are standing right back? On an ordinary jet ski they would simply fall straight off, but with wedges, it gives the riders a chance to stand right up.

The wedges can actually be bought right off Amazon and installed on your ordinary Spark. So if you have a case of missing out, don’t despair!

Some people have reported these as being unreliable, but in my opinion, they work just fine as they are factory-spec. They are also color-coded to the original Sea-Doo paintwork.

Variable Trim

With the Variable Trim System (also known as VTS) it’s a fancy way of saying that the front nose of your jet ski can change in its height. Essentially you can make it point higher or lower in the water, which in turn changes the way in which your jet ski handles.

Seadoo Spark
The ordinary spark pictured above has no variable trim

Why is this important? It really impacts the ability of the rider to do tricks. Remember – this is a fun machine. Some riding conditions aren’t too helpful (such as windy days with additional swell) so this feature is a MUST.

The more expensive Sea-Doo models also have this feature but it’s to ensure a more comfortable ride when cruising along at 60 miles per hour. In addition they do have cruise control and a range of other luxury features.

Upgrading Your Jet Ski

Is it worth the additional outlay? Most people would say yes! Certainly, I would.

The original Sea-Doo Spark has a name for itself as the poor man’s water toy, but the Trixx brings back the excitement without costing a fortune.

Seadoo Spark Trixx Fallen Off
Sea-doo trixx vs sea-doo spark: which is best? (2022 update) 38

The thing about these upgrades is that you can actually buy them separately. Say you were limited on what you can spend right now.

Well, you can purchase all 3 options aftermarket on Amazon or even directly from your dealer.

Also, in the past, the Trixx was limited to 2 passengers only. In 2022 you can buy this machine where you can take 3 passengers, but technically, there wouldn’t be enough space apart from 1 adult and 2 children.

Summary of the Trixx

The Trixx is a better jet ski than the Sea-Doo Spark for several reasons. Sea-Doo is always offering promotional pricing to help people go for the upgraded model.

If you can’t quite afford it yet, then the Spark is a good segway into the world of personal watercraft.