3 Great Cruising PWCs
When it comes to long-haul comfort, on-water stability, fuel efficiency, and features built for exploring rather than racing, a select group of personal watercraft (PWCs) stands out. Cruising PWCs.
The market features a slew of PWC makes and models for various on-the-water activities. A number of distinct features, however, make a PWC better for cruising. So if you want to spend more time on the water with fewer technical demands, what should you prioritize in cruising PWCs?
Foremost is fuel capacity and range. Bigger tanks mean longer runs between fillups. If you want to put on the miles, don’t splurge on a racer designed for short sprints. The hull itself is critical, too, as a deeper-V bottom or a multi-chine hull provides the best open-water stability.
Beyond the comfort of the ride itself, everything else that improves PWC cruising stems from the luxury bells and whistles. Features such as cruise control, braking systems, and trim adjustment make a big difference over time. Multi-compartment setups are best for long days on the water.
Seating design, handlebar adjustability, and passenger comfort all make a world of difference. And of course, technology (which only continues to improve) is important. Touchscreens, GPS, Bluetooth audio, and mobile integration all enhance the ride experience in their own way.
Only a handful of major manufacturers build PWCs—namely, Yamaha, Sea-Doo, and Kawasaki—so the options for cruising PWCs are finite. But you should know the differences between other models, such as for fishing, and cruisers. Let’s look at three of the best cruising PWCs and find out what makes each one uniquely suited for open-water adventure, extended comfort, and all-day performance.
Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO
Yamaha’s flagship FX Cruiser blends touring-grade comfort with Super Vortex High Output power. The Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO is built on Yamaha’s longest hull (11 feet, 9 inches), and made from lightweight NanoXcel2, which improves fuel efficiency and agility without compromising open-water stability. The FX Cruiser SVHO also includes Yamaha’s RiDE system for intuitive deceleration and reverse control. That’s a big plus when navigating in marinas and other no-wake zones.
The FX Cruiser SVHO is built for long hauls, and it shows in every detail. Its cruiser-style seat is tiered for added back support and comfortably fits up to three people. That seat is great for bringing a passenger or two along. Yamaha’s 7-inch Connext touchscreen is a central hub for onboard systems. Use it to navigate, play music via Bluetooth, and toggle between drive control modes.
When you’re covering serious distance, features such as Cruise Assist and No Wake Mode help manage the throttle, giving your wrist a break. And if you’re the type to bring extra gear and snacks—you just like being prepared—the 44.5-gallon storage system offers more than enough room.
Tech Specs:
- Engine: 1812cc, 4-cylinder, 4-stroke Yamaha SVHO
- Horsepower: 250
- Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
- Hull material: NanoXcel2
- Weight: 875 pounds
- Storage: 44.5 gallons
- MSRP: $20,599
X-Factor: Yamaha’s proprietary RiDE system and electronic trim give this model precise handling for longer hauls, even in choppy waters. It’s a favorite among PWC touring clubs.
Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300
The Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300 is arguably the most feature-rich luxury cruiser on the market. Built on Sea-Doo’s ST3 hull, it offers unmatched stability at rest and in motion, which is ideal for riders who like to anchor and lounge. Sea-Doo’s iBR (Intelligent Brake and Reverse) system allows for ultra-smooth docking and control. The PWC’s ergonomic Ergolock seating system reduces fatigue on longer rides.
Comfort and convenience are the name of the game. Its Ergolock seat isn’t just plush. It’s designed to reduce leg fatigue on longer rides. How? It allows your knees to grip the seat, giving you more stability and control. Sea-Doo built-in a 100W Bluetooth audio system, so you can cruise to your favorite playlist.
At the helm, a 7.8-inch panoramic digital display puts all the key info in one place, and it pairs easily with a smartphone. Multiple riding modes—Touring, Sport, and ECO—allow you to dial in the throttle response to suit your style or the conditions.
Tech Specs:
- Engine: Rotax 1630 ACE
- Horsepower: 300
- Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
- Hull material: ST3 (fiberglass)
- Weight: 849 pounds
- Storage: 26.1 gallons (including waterproof phone box and front cargo access)
- MSRP: $19,699
X-Factor: The GTX Limited’s ST3 hull and powerful Rotax engine make it one of the most stable and comfortable PWCs. Add a LinQ accessory system for modular storage, and you have a long-distance touring machine.
Kawasaki Ultra 310LX
The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX is a luxury Jet Ski with serious muscle. It pairs a supercharged 1,498cc inline-four engine with an aggressive hull design for ocean-capable cruising. Unlike many cruisers, it includes Jetsound audio integrated into the fairing. As such, it is the only factory-installed audio system in the Kawasaki lineup. Riders and passengers appreciate its high-backed, bolstered seat for three and its class-leading storage.
Kawasaki packed the Ultra 310LX with smart features to make long rides smoother and more enjoyable. Electronic cruise control takes the strain out of holding pace, while Kawasaki Smart Steering helps maintain control during deceleration. Riders also appreciate the heat-resistant kneepads and adjustable handlebars. They make a surprising difference in all-day comfort.
And if you’re the type to pack for every possibility, the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX has a massive front storage compartment to stash everything from dry bags to snorkel gear.
Tech Specs:
- Engine: Supercharged 1,498cc DOHC inline-four
- Horsepower: 310
- Fuel Capacity: 21.1 gallons (largest in class)
- Hull Material: Deep-V fiberglass hull
- Weight: 1,089.3 pounds
- Storage: 44.5 gallons
- MSRP: $21,199
X-Factor: The Ultra 310LX is the heaviest and most ocean-ready cruiser on this list, designed for comfort at high speeds in rough chop. Its large fuel tank and premium seat give it an unquestionable edge in distance touring.
Don’t Overthink Your Choice of Cruising PWCs
Ultimately, choosing the right cruising PWC depends on your priorities. Are you all about top-end features and plush ergonomics? Do you place more emphasis on sporty handling and innovative tech? Is sheer cargo capacity you top need?
The good news is these models have all of that. You just pick the degree to which you need each. Modern PWCs are blurring the line between thrill rides and touring machines, offering something for every rider. If you’re still unsure which model is right for you, you can likely rent one or more of them before you buy.
David Schlake
You might also like
