New potential jet boater from PacNW

[Slipstream]

Hi all! I live and boat in the Seattle area. I currently own a 19' Four Winns I/O runabout, and it's time to move up. While we weren't looking for jetboats at all, my wife and I were really impressed by Yahama's lineup. In fact, we're going for a test drive next week!

A couple of questions: How do these motors hold up to salt water usage in the real world? Yes, I've read how they're "designed" against corrosion.. How do they really do? I always flush my motor with fresh water when I pull the boat, but understand it may be moored in salt water for weeks at a time. We had to replace our current boat's motor at 8 years, due to corrosion. Our next boat was planned to be a fresh-water cooled system, so the fact that this is unavailable for Yamaha causes a bit of concern.

How's the noise level? I've been reading how Yamaha has made some serious effort into reducing noise. How effective have these measures been?

Finally: Any rumors on the E-class stuff (like push-button start) coming to the 21' line? There are worse things than having to turn two keys, but as a design feature, that just seems kind of silly.

Thanks, all! Looking forward to my test drive!

 

[captras]

I came from a 21 foot Four Winns (great boat) last year to my 2016 Yamaha 242. There is NO comparison! I love this boat...the room and storage are very impressive. Noise level, it is about the same as my IO was. I cant tell you much about salt water because I am exclusively fresh water. Good luck in your hunt...I guarantee you will NOT be disappointed by the transition!

 

[Slipstream]

Beautiful boat! Thanks for the advice.

 

[Franced123]

@Slipstream . Check out the chaparral vortex line, they have closed loop cooling and are better suited for salt water. I haven't used mine in saltwater yet but when I researched it seemed much better for longevity. I have 223 vrx. Yamaha is a good boat as well I used to have one years ago just not close looped cooling.