Sealver Wave Boats started in France over 10 years ago, and continue today selling overseas. However, when they came to the United States their design was not Coast Guard approved. So they formed an alliance with Sealver Canada to manufacture boats for the North American market. Then we came in at the very end of last year and secured the rights from Sealver Canada to be the distributor for the US market.
The Watercraft Journal spoke with Sealver’s David Mitchell, who stated, “We are based out of Stuart, Florida, and just recently secured new dealers for Palm Beach, Broward, and Dade County. Also we have a new dealer in Mt. Dora, Florida, and Mclean, Virginia. We are working on our website and will soon have them on our dealer page with their information. We hope to have between 10-20 dealers set up by the end of the year, and by the end of 2021, 50 dealers.
“We have just struck an agreement to join the P1 AquaX USA Tour as a partner and sponsor for 2021. Still working on the details but we are excited to be a part of this organization. We know working with them will help our brand and our dealers to grow. If you’re interested in becoming a dealer, please email me at [email protected]“
The Sealver Wave Boat has 3 series:
The 444 series is 14’5″, will accommodate 5 passengers and weighs only 683lbs. To run properly, your jet ski needs to have 150hp minimum
The 525 series is 17’2″, will accommodate 6 passengers and weighs only 772lbs. Needed horsepower 200
The 656 series is 21’6″, will accommodate 7 passengers and weighs only 1322lbs. Needed horsepower 250
*All weights do not included the jet ski
**All boats are USGA, and AYBC approved.
The boats offer a great platform for the PWC user, to bring friends and family out on the water. Then the ski can detach in about 1 minute and the user can play on the water with the ski while the others can enjoy the boat as their personal raft. One are that we will soon explore with this is the yachting community. The Wave Boat will offer the yacht owner the ability to get rid of the tender boat. We now can act as the tender with the ski, offer more versatility and use a lot less space on a yacht.
Let’s just get right to it: Personal watercraft sales are the highest they’ve been since 2007. Just last year, the total number of new vehicle sales excelled 87,000 units. (That’s literally double the total sales a decade earlier.) To meet this wave of newfound demand, Yamaha Motor Corp. USA is rolling out an unprecedented eleven new WaveRunners for 2021, making this the single largest new product launch in the brand’s 35 years of personal watercraft production.
Additionally, this last year marked the first time in decades that the percentage of first-time buyer sales (52%) eclipsed return buyers (48%). Yamaha’s WaterCraft Group general manager, Bryan Seti explained, “Coming off [of] a record sales year that saw us sell out of most models, these new products elevate our line even further. […] This is proving to be a very special year for Yamaha WaterCraft and we think our customers will find these new products to exceed their expectations of what they can do on the water.”
Above left:The 2021 GP1800R SVHO shows a bit of retro styling with its redesigned hood, looking a bit like the GP1300R from years back. Above right: The entire FX line returns unchanged for 2021, save for new colors and decals – as well as many new accessory options.
Above: In addition to an entirely new deck design, Yamaha unveils two fully-loaded Limited models, the 100HP TR-1 powered VX Limited and the 180HP VX Limited High Output.
Particular focus was placed on Yamaha’s most popular segment – the VX Series – by including a swathe of top tier features and accessory options previously unavailable on models other than higher-end FX Series runabouts – as well as some design features learned on the Rec-Lite EX Series. This manifested as a redesigned deck which shares many of the aforementioned FX’s attributes. Deeper, wider, self-draining footwells, a wider rear swim platform and even a reshaped seat that radically improves rider comfort and ergonomics.
The reshaped saddle is 1.5-inches narrower and slightly tapered at the knees, allowing the driver better lower-body grip in cornering and comfort while cruising. To accomplish this new seat arrangement, the redesigned VX uses a black plastic secondary deck panel – similar to those first used on the EX WaveRunners – that also allow for greater engine access when removed. Passengers are also entreated with a resculpted rear seat and handrail as well.
Above: Yamaha is rolling out a huge catalog of redesigned and returning accessories, including several soft-sided cargo bags and coolers.
Above left: The VX Limited comes with a new “wet storage” rope storage bag that tucks up nicely below the redesigned rear passenger handle rail. Above right: The Limited models also come standard with Yamaha’s all-new factory-installed sound system pumping out 100-watts of sound!
Drivers now enjoy the industry’s first full-color LCD “Helm Control” as well. The 4.3-inch screen operates Yamaha’s Connext software displaying fuel mileage and consumption rates, a PIN security code and even pre-setting a maximum speed – all controlled by a touchpad located beneath the steering on the right hand side.
For those VX models equipped with either the 1,049cc TR-1 3-cylinder four-stroke (VX-C, MSRP $9,149) or the TR-1 High Output (VX, MSRP $10,049; VX Deluxe, MSRP $10,849; VX Cruiser, MSRP $11,149; VX Limited, MSRP $12,449) horsepower production is set at 100 and 110, respectively. For the two VX models equipped with the naturally-aspirated 180-horsepower, 1,812cc High Output Marine Engine – specifically the world’s best selling PWC 3-years running, the VX Cruiser HO (MSRP $12,049), or the new-for-2021 VX Limited HO (MSRP $13,549) – Connext can also adjust acceleration speeds from “normal” to “slow”.
Above: The new 4.3-inch Helm Control dashboard is a full color, glare-resistant LCD screen operated via a key pad fixed to the deck directly below the handlebars. Notice the 3-button sound system controls below the left-hand side of the handle bars.
Above left: The redesigned deck for the VX and GP models feature deeper, wider and self-draining footwells. Above right: 2021 marks the first year of factory-installed, hard-mounted speakers. The cases are either black or white, and color-matched to the deck of each unit.
With the deck’s redesign also comes an all-new glovebox. Not only is it the largest glovebox ever offered for the VX Series, it’s also watertight and lit with blue LED lighting coming from a USB and a 12v power outlet as standard equipment (except for the base model VX and VX-C). Base storage is also up with a wider bow compartment for easier access; a more durable, high strength hinge and dampener; and a snap-top, water-resistant box found beneath the rear seat.
Further features on the redesigned VX Series include the addition of the multi-mount accessory system; simply screw in a RAM ball-mount and you can attach any number of items, like a GPS, action camera, etc. Yet, one unique option for the VX Series (except for the base model VX and VX-C) is the availability of a factory-installed marine audio system (an $800 option); comprised of twin 4.5-inch waterproof marine speakers, an integrated 2-channel (50 watts per channel) amplifier, and a low-voltage regulator to protect the battery; all of which is operated by an easy access control pad below the handle bars on the left hand side.
Above left: The redesigned deck also includes the largest (and widest) glovebox offered for the VX. Look inside and you’ll see both a USB port and a 12v socket that glow blue with LED lighting. Above right: All VX models also include ports for RAM ball-mounts.
Above: Here’s a better look at the Connext control pad (below the handlebars) as well as the accessory RAM mount ports. These allow for a wide variety of accessorizing.
Now, if you’re looking to have it all, the new VX Limited HO comes with the factory-installed integrated speaker system, as well as the rest of the now-famous Limited package, including a single-rider tube, tube inflator, tube holder, tow rope, tow rope bag, custom cover with glove box access and two fenders. Of course, if you’re wanting all of that without the extra 70-horsepower, the TR-1 powered VX Limited WaveRunner returns for 2021, as well as the VX Cruiser, VX Deluxe, VX, and VX-C.
To those unacquainted, the VX models share the same hull and deck molds as the performance-bred GP series, meaning the two series share similar handling and cornering characteristics. The differences between the two are in their material construction. The base model VX-C and VX are cast in traditional SMC fiberglass, as the remainder of the VX Series are molded in Yamaha’s proprietary NanoXcel clay, providing a thinner, yet equally as durable molecular bond, which dramatically shaves weight.
Above left: The front storage of the new VX models is equally huge, as well as stepped to allow for Yamaha’s soft-sided cooler (similar to the FX models). Above right: The VX retains its same hull, which is the same used on the race-course dominating GP1800R models.
Above: The Watercraft Journal was invited to test ride the new GP1800R SVHO before any other PWC magazine in the world. The acceleration, mid-range pull and mid-corner throttle of the new GP has been greatly improved thanks to several changes made to the craft’s hookup and cavitation mitigation.
For the race-ready GP1800R SVHO (MSRP $14,749) and HO (MSRP $12,549) models, Yamaha employs its NanoXcel2 material. Shaving off an impressive 18-percent more weight from its NanoXcel predecessor, NanoXcel2 is also 100-percent repairable without the use of special tools or materials too, and results in an automotive-grade Class A smooth, high-quality paintable surface. This lends itself to Yamaha’s excellent power-to-weight ratio, and is directly attributable to the GP1800R being the weapon-of-choice of more racers and professional athletes than any other personal watercraft today.
For 2021, Yamaha’s engineers have remastered its almost superhuman GP1800R musclecraft by improving on weight distribution, acceleration and cornering. Beginning with the redesigned deck, Yamaha’s GP Series WaveRunners benefit greatly from improved ergonomics. A narrow, racy seat profile and deeper, wider self-draining footwells add towards superior rider posture and knee-placement. Add to that an all-new pistol grip-mounted, tilt-adjustable handlebars, and racers and performance enthusiasts alike are going to flip.
Above left: The naturally-aspirated GP1800R HO returns as well, gaining the redesigned intake grate and improved mid-ship balance via the retracted fuel tank.
Above left: Those intimately familiar with the prior GP1800R SVHO models will immediately recognize the dramatic performance gains in the 2021 model. Initial cavitation is almost nonexistent, and the GP’s balanced inside lean through a hairpin is all-the-more predictable. Above right: Yamaha has also introduced an industry-first, “Cornering Control” which automatically trims the nose down to “load” the hull’s surface tension prior to accelerating out of the apex of a corner.
More impressive is the introduction of Launch Control and the industry’s first Auto Trim system, exclusive to the GP’s. Known as “Cornering Control,” the Auto Trim feature operates separately from the electric trim system on the handlebars. It automatically trims the bow down when decelerating for a tight corner, and trims back up to plane when accelerating out of the apex. Similarly, Launch Control toggles the trim down and gradually rises back up to the preset when accelerating quickly from a stop or idle speed.
On top of this, Yamaha has developed an all-new top loader intake grate to reduce cavitation, as well as upgraded the jet pump transom that stabilizes the water flow through the jet pump. Gone is the abrupt 155mm step in the aluminum transom; instead, it’s a true 160mm that flows into the two-piece pump with a 160mm liner and impeller, and a tapered stator with a 155mm inlet and larger 160mm exit.
Above left: With the redesign comes some niceties as well. All GPs are equipped with a wide folding swim step that butts up to a far wider swim platform. The upper deck includes a molded-in reboarding handle as well. Above right: The new dashboard is easy to read – even at speed – and is easily navigated through the Helm Control pad.
Yet, one of the biggest changes to the GP1800R is one that will likely go the least noticed by the masses: Yamaha’s engineers redesigned the inner hull liner, moving the 18.5-gallon fuel tank 80mm (3.15-inches) aft, and half-an-inch lower in the hull. This move strategically optimizes the GP’s center of gravity, dramatically increasing the craft’s handling prowess and overall agility.
No literally, guys. The difference between the 2021 and previous GP’s is night and day. Top speed hasn’t changed, but getting there is a whole different experience. Out of the hole acceleration, the mid-range pull into the boost and continual hookup has made the 2021 GP1800R a whole new machine.
Above:Although not advertised, two changes were made to the GP’s powertrain; a redesigned supercharger clutch that includes more teeth (27 vs. 24) and a larger diameter. This means greater engagement at all revolutions. Additionally, the transom plate has been machined wider, from 155mm to 160mm, permitting a more stable flow of water into the pump.
Above left: Although the exact same size inside, the opening for the GP’s glove box is a little tighter. And you’re going to have to check the option box for the USB port and 12v socket that comes standard on the VX models. Above right: And no, your eyes don’t deceive you. The GP models come with tilt steering.
Above the bondline, the new GP’s enjoy the same 15-percent increase in overall storage, with a bigger glovebox, multi-mount accessory system and the full-color Connext Helm Control (with the control pad below the handle bars on the right) as the other VX models. Equally, both the SVHO and HO can be set to limit the top speed and acceleration from normal to slow. Lastly, the GP’s can also be ordered with the factory-installed, custom integrated marine audio system.
Minor changes to the EX Series come in 2021 in the form of a new, fully-optioned EX Limited (MSRP $9,599). The Limited comes with a king’s ransom of accessories, including two waterproof wireless EcoXgear Bluetooth Speakers, a single-rider tube, tube inflator, tube holder, tow rope, tow rope bag, fixed bow-mounted dry storage, 12V outlet, custom cover with glove box access and two fenders. Additionally, only the EX Limited employs new redesigned sponsons for increased dynamic stability.
Above: The 110-horsepower EXR returns in an eye-scorching red-and-yellow livery, and remains as fun as ever. (Seriously, it’s so stinkin’ fun to ride.)
Above left: The EX Series of Rec-Lite runabouts feature some of the most vibrant colors and retro-styled graphics we’ve seen Yamaha ever use. Above right: The EX Series adds another entry: the EX Limited. In addition to the towable, rope, bumpers, chrome emblems, and a 12v port; the Limited also includes a very cool hard-mounted dry bag in the bow.
The remainder of the EX Series, including the EX (MSRP $6,999), EX Sport (MSRP $7,999) and EX Deluxe (MSRP 8,999) return, as well as the funnest PWC in Yamaha’s roster (at least in our view), the 110-horsepower EXR (MSRP $9,499). All other EX models, including the EX Limited, are equipped with the standard 1049cc TR-1 producing 100-horsepower. Likewise, all EX models are made using traditional fiberglass, while the EXR shaves off 70-pounds by using Yamaha’s featherweight NanoXcel2 material mentioned earlier.
And, in what might be the industry’s most anticipated reveal, is the introduction of the 2021 TR-1 powered SuperJet (MSRP 9,499). Rolling out 30 years since the first SuperJet, the 2021 4-stroke was designed specifically to retain the exhilarating experience of riding a lightweight, nimble standup, while being 50-state legal and not requiring a racing license to purchase.
Above: What could be the most anticipated WaveRunner to come from Yamaha in recent years, the entirely redesigned, 4-stroke SuperJet is powered by the same 100-horsepower TR-1 3-cylinder and 2-piece 144mm jet pump found in the EX Series. And yes, you can truly leg drag it.
Above left: While 69-pounds heavier than the outgoing 2-stroke, the 2021 SuperJet dips the scales at 409-pounds (375lbs. dry weight) – a staggering 142-pounds less than it’s closest competition. Above right: While certainly no Scott Watkins or Clay Cullen, The Watercraft Journal was able to spend a day riding the new SuperJet and was wowed with its immediate throttle response and light, nimble feel.
Yamaha’s new SuperJet is 142-pounds lighter (409-pounds) and 8.8-inches shorter (81-inches, or 6 feet, 9-inches long) than is competition. This also means that the new SuperJet is 69-pounds heavier, 7.5-inches longer, 3.2-inches wider, and 5.1-inches taller than the outgoing 2-stroke SuperJet for comparison’s sake.
Powered by the same 100-horsepower TR-1 engine propelling most of the EX Series and many of the VX runabouts, the new SuperJet enjoys immediate throttle response, plenty of torque and even a new L-Mode that de-tunes the TR-1 to 80-percent of its acceleration curve, dropping the top speed to 40mph; ideal for beginner riders. Otherwise, more daring riders can push the SuperJet to a blistering sustained top speed of 54mph.
Above left: The SuperJet retains its sporty, athletic feel; without any of the expected bloat of other 4-stroke standups. Putting the SuperJet on its rail is done effortlessly, and can power out of a corner with ease. Above right: The SuperJet’s centralized weight encourages rides to tuck down low and forward. A 3-piece composite hood is watertight and serves as a preliminary air box for the 4-stroke.
Above: One key feature to the new SuperJet are its adjustable bars – capable of moving 2-inches in length via a set of Allen bolts. The SuperJet also returns with its adjustable turning angle steering, letting the rider set their turn angle from 16º to 19º.
Wanting to give the SuperJet the widest access to a variety of riders, some cool features were added: first, a three-position adjustable handle pole (capable of extending 50mm, or 2-inches in length) and race-inspired handlebars come standard. Second, Yamaha carried over its adjustable steering cable system that can be set at either 16- or 19-degrees to increase the ski’s turn angle. Lastly, a small digital gauge is fixed near the base of the handlepole showing the fuel level and L-mode (when activated).
With a wide padded foot tray featuring a small relief in the center – what Yamaha calls an integrated reboarding holder. And with a 5-gallon fuel cell, the SuperJet promises hours of fun on the water. Lastly, the hull was designed for greater static and dynamic stability. The new SuperJet commits to deliver on the promise of a true “physically-challenging, athletic riding experience” while being fuel-efficient and environmentally superior to its predecessor – and at a staggering $9,499 MSRP.
Above: Not to be overshadowed by all of the news above, the “murdered-out” all-black livery of last year’s FX SVHO returns, but on the FX Cruiser SVHO.
Above left: The stellar EcoXgear speakers return for 2021, connecting to your smartphone via Bluetooth to play your favorite tunes. Oh yeah, and they float too! Above right: Not to be outdone, Yamaha’s accessory division is now offering a monster Garmin GPS chart plotter package for the FX as well. Make sure to ask your local dealer all about it!
And yes, we mustn’t forget about Yamaha’s full-sized WaveRunner, the FX. The FX Series carries over mainly unchanged for 2021, save for some color variations and adjusted pricing, and all models – the FX HO (MSRP $13,799), FX Cruiser HO (MSRP $14,299), FX SVHO (MSRP 15,799), FX Cruiser SVHO (MSRP $16,499) and FX Limited SVHO (MSRP $17,699) – return as well. Interestingly, with so much of the FX DNA found in the VX Series, we wager it’ll be even harder for customers to pick between the two.
With that, eleven new Yamaha machines are being introduced this model year – and new units are being shipped and uncrated by dealerships as this article is published. But be warned, demand hasn’t let up, and deposits on all of these new WaveRunners have already been accepted, so next year might be a race to grab a new Yamaha before they sell out again. You better act quick, bud. These are gonna disappear fast.
Above left: As mentioned earlier, Yamaha’s selection of stern accessories include a new (very useful) soft-sided cooler that mounts to the back of all FX models. Above right: No matter where you plan to ride, Yamaha’s new accessory division has something to fit your needs.
Above: New rigid gunwale bumpers will protect your FX’s automotive-grade paint even at a busy dock.
[Editor’s note: This article is expressly an overview of the 2021 lineup. Prior to this release, The Watercraft Journal was exclusively invited to test ride four of these new models, the SuperJet, GP1800R SVHO, VX Limited HO and EX Limited. Each of these units will receive a full length review and video in the coming weeks.]
We can all remember that time of intense pressure and scrutiny to get our watercraft launched at the crowded boat ramp. Maybe you didn’t have quite enough practice or the ramp location was just jam packed with summer weekenders.
Whatever the case may be, we could all use a few tips or reminders here and there from some experts. That’s why Sea-Doo wants you to ‘Doo It Right’ and is offering a few pointers to make sure your next trip to the boat ramp goes smoothly.
First and foremost, you want to be familiar with the ramp location, its launch/land area, and surrounding waterways. You might want to view a google maps satellite image of the area, view posted pictures of the ramp, or simply swing by and check it out prior to arriving with your watercraft especially if it will be your first visit to the ramp.
Next you want to make sure you are prepared prior to leaving your home. This includes performing necessary checklist items to ensure your watercraft is performing according to your owner’s manual. Make sure it is in good running order and ensure you have enough fuel for your ride.
Ensure you have your PFD and other safety gear. Check your drain plugs and ensure your intake grate and prop area are free of obstructions. Also be sure to pack personal essentials such as sunscreen and water bottles.
As you arrive to the ramp, there are some general etiquette guidelines that are standard. This includes doing all prep-work prior to arriving in the launch lane. For instance, you want to make sure to have covers removed, dock lines already tied to the watercraft, and coolers or other accessories already in place.
Now you are ready to pull into the launch lane. As soon as it’s your turn, back your watercraft into the water. Once unhooked from the trailer, you or a partner can safely tie it off on a designated staging dock. Then park your vehicle and return to your watercraft so that you can exit the area to make way for the next person.
Landing the watercraft is simply done in the reverse order. Not rushing under pressure is important to ensure everything is done correctly without injury or damages but also preparation work is key.
For more detailed steps, check out the Sea-Doo Blog with included video. Now you can be fully prepared and confident on your next outing.
To his fans and YouTube audience, he in known as The Fish Whisperer. To Sea-Doo, Kyle Naegeli is a brand ambassador promoting the #seadoolife and charting out fishing adventures aboard the Fish Pro.
Now you can follow along on this unique adventure on Lake Powell as Naegeli cranks up the fun. Want to take on this exact adventure for yourself and explore the unique scenery of this beautiful area? Continue reading the Sea-Doo Blog below to find out how and be sure to check out the video.
The Fish Whisperer Takes on Lake Powell
Ride along with Sea-Doo Ambassador Kyle Naegeli as he hits Lake Powell for a Sea-Doo Life fishing adventure you have to see to believe.
Joining with Up Lake Adventures aboard the Sea-Doo Fish PRO, Naegeli – AKA: The Fish Whisperer – dials up the fun in every aspect along the waters and surreal scenery of one of the world’s most unique bodies of water. And the ultimate versatile watercraft, he squeezes every ounce out of the adventure thanks to the Fish PRO
Naegeli’s out-of-this-world Lake Powell adventure is closer than one might think. Check out The Uncharted Society, which offers the adventure package you see here and many other custom adventures through a curated list of providers.
For the longest time, people were convinced that while a great offshore/rough water platform, the current Kawasaki Ultra JetSki platform was just too big and/or heavy to really make any substantial speed. That was disproven by some very successful racers with some major factory support (Dustin Farthing and Craig Warner, to name a few), the mainstream saw it as just outside the reach of most folks.
Thankfully, Jamie Eade from Brisbane Kawasaki and KSpeed Performance saw past the chatroom fluff and went to work eking out more and more speed from the big blown Kawasakis. A major factor towards achieving this goal was in changing the pitch of the hull, trimming the nose upward to release so much surface tension. To manually (and cheaply) do this, KSpeed developed a 2-degree pump wedge.
The pump wedge manually angles the pump’s jet nozzle upwards, pushing all of that thrust at an elevated angle. This, in turn, forces the bow upward and thusly, frees up the hull’s aggressive deadrise. Unbelievably, KSpeed’s pump wedge goes on in minutes, and below we’ve included a step-by-step tutorial of how to install the 2 degree pump wedge on your Kawasaki Ultra 300/310.
Today we bring you a story about three Sea-Doo’s and a shark. We came across a short clip of a few guys riding Sea-Doo’s in Florida, and just for fun; a shark showed up to mingle. Sharks generally don’t bother humans, they just don’t. This one was swimming in its natural habitat, probably a little curious as to what the commotion at the surface was about.
Sharks are solitary creatures and prefer to be left alone like a lot of humans. Moreover, they are sharks and as a rule most of us have a healthy respect for them and prefer to stay away and watch them from a distance. Bull sharks, on the other hand, don’t take any crap and this one appeared to be a juvenile bull.
The riders may have been young and dumb and thought it would be fun to antagonize a shark. They attempted to corral the shark and one rider got a little to close and clearly, the man in the gray suit had had enough nonsense from the riders. The irritated animal turned and bit the Sea-Doo, scaring the heck out the kid.
Fortunately, no one was harmed, and the shark swam free. This gives “Your Sea-Doo Life” a whole new meaning!
Last week, the world record for the fastest personal watercraft was set at 135 miles per hour aboard a GP1800R SVHO. Certainly, there wasn’t a whole lot left “factory stock” on that machine, but the hull and deck were more or less as Yamaha produced from its Newnan, Georgia manufacturing facility. Add to that an incredible record of GP1800R sweeping podiums since its introduction in 2017, and it’s clear that these WaveRunners are favorite of performance enthusiasts.
In 2019, Yamaha made some minor changes to the GP musclecraft; first, being the addition of the “R” and the inclusion of a top loader intake grate and an extended-surface, inverse-straked ride plate. Last year, the GP1800R was redesignated as the “GP1800R SVHO” as the VXR became the “GP1800R HO” – a mouthful to say the least. Additionally, the GP received a redesigned two-piece pump, with a 160mm liner and impeller, and a tapered stator measuring 155mm at the inlet and 160 at the exit.
Above left: This is what the factory stock GP1800 intake grate looked like in 2017 against the first iteration of the RIVA Racing top loader intake grate. In 2019, Yamaha “borrowed” RIVA’s design but found that while it was an improvement, more was left on the table. Above right: RIVA’s second edition top loader intake grate has a massive scoop grate and an even larger inlet, providing the GP1800R unmatched hook up, reduced cavitation and all without losing speed!
Yet, one of the biggest issues plaguing the GP1800R SVHO was initial cavitation at the onset. From a standstill, the GP1800R fought to bite and launch hard. And while the GP1800R could track straight even in rough water, staying hooked at throttle was still a chore – primarily due to the craft’s light weight. To directly combat these specific issues, RIVA Racing launched the second version of its performance top loader intake grate for all GP and VX Series Yamahas.
Dave Bamdas explained, “This grate was developed through our racing efforts and used by the RIVA Racing Team to win multiple championships over the past 18 months.” The most prominent feature is the radically increased oversized top-loader wing and optimized inlet ramp to reduce cavitation, as well as the giant opening at the “chip” permitting more water into the pump area for continued hookup with zero top speed loss. Cast from stainless steel, it won’t rust and it’s super durable too. Priced at $329.95 it’s the ultimate weapon to perfect launches and remain hooked all the way through your pull.
With less than two weeks away from the 2021 Yamaha WaveRunners official reveal, it would appear that Kawasaki’s European division jumped the starter’s pistol yet again, and rolled out the entirety of the international lineup of 2021 JetSkis. Although all of us are excited to see what each of the Big 3 have in store, it came as little surprise that much of the lineup remains entirely unchanged for the new model year, particularly as 2020 saw a rollercoaster of sales due to the COVID-19 panic.
Wanting to group its watercraft division into segments, Kawasaki has broken up the range into Ultra, STX and SX-R groups. Albeit a little on-the-nose, each category offers buyers a selection of pricing and performance to meet his or her particular budget and preferred riding style. Interestingly, all models share an ever-so-slightly modified variant of the same 1,493cc dual overhead cam 4-stroke, four-cylinder engine. This uniformity across the board allows Kawasaki to keep manufacturing costs down and retain a rather robust catalog of replacement parts sitting on shelves.
Those few models that received new paint schemes and decals have also otherwise gone unchanged (what many in the industry jokingly call “BNG” or Bold New Graphics, marketing speak for “new colors and graphics”). No newfangled technologies or whiz-bang features here, folks. And for some, that’s all they want – and it’s true. Kawasaki has experienced impressive growth numbers over the past couple of years, and hope to see this growth ratchet skyward in the coming months as these 2021 models roll out.
For the STX group, the base model STX 160 returns unchanged in its Gelcoat Crystal White and Sunbeam Red color scheme. Domestically, the mid-level STX – the 160X – came in a very fun Ebony and Riptide Turquoise in 2020; internationally, the STX 160X came only in Ebony and Lime Green, and includes Cruise Control and No Wake settings. The top-of-the-segment STX 160LX ups the ante with a heat-resistant 3-tiered seat and Bluetooth-controlled Jetsounds audio system and remains unfazed in last year’s Ebony and Candy Lime Green coloring.
Stepping up to the full-sized Ultra platform, the international market receives four variants, while those residing in the United States are offered a unique Ultra 310X Special Edition (SE). Nevertheless, the lowest-entry in this segment is the naturally-aspirated Ultra LX, which unlike the STX 160X sold internationally, comes in the Ebony and Riptide Turquoise that we so liked. We’re still waiting for the Ultra LX to receive the same luxury features found on the STX 160LX and supercharged Ultra 310LX, such as Jetsounds and plusher seating.
A new and somewhat exciting color comes on the Ultra 310X as it shines in Ebony and New Citrus Yellow. The aforementioned Ultra 310LX returns to the top of the fleet in Ebony and Metallic Carbon Gray, which shines brilliantly in the sun. Lastly, the Ultra 310R returns with its iridescent green sponsons coated in Ebony and Lime Green, which is expected since we can’t recall a year that it wasn’t black-and-green since its 2014 launch.
Lastly, comes the SX-R JetSki. Returning with its Ebony and Lime Green for 2021, the lone standup is rumored to face some competition in the near future. Either way, the SX-R has become a weapon-of-choice for many racers and performance standup enthusiasts in its 4 years. In all, Kawasaki enters the European market with a formidable 8 models for 2021, and seeing that Kawasaki’s Lincoln, Nebraska manufacturing facility didn’t experience any production shut-downs, it is expected for new units to be arriving at dealers as this article is published.
Check it out, you can now purchase a RIVA Racing Neoprene Men’s BioLite Life Vest from Greenhulk Performance Parts. The vests are available in solid black with sizes XS to XXXL and come at an affordable price point of $64.95. This is a quality no frills vest that has been designed for straight up function, safety, and comfort no matter what kind of on the water activity you’re participating. Also, the RIVA Racing Biolite vest is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
It features a PWC lanyard attachment ring and has both front chest and back shoulder RIVA print logo. The neoprene PFD is a versatile product that can be used for most any water sport. The vest has wide arm holes and its segmented panels keep hinderance of motion at a minimum and it will stay snug in order to help keep you safe on the water thanks to the two adjustable belt clips and front zipper.
BioLite is an environmentally friendly material that breathes better, is lighter, and dries faster than traditional neoprene. Quick dry and light are a good combination! Whether you need to upgrade you current PFD lineup or want to try something different, check out the RIVA Racing Neoprene Men’s BioLite Life Vest on the Greenhulk store. Greenhulk offers worldwide shipping so don’t get discouraged if you’re across the pond and want one of these vests.
Several day’s worth of heavy rain threatened to cancel the 14th annual Mudbug PWC Rally in Morgan City, Louisiana. The downpour had flooded Lake Palourde and the canals surrounding Avoca Island, raising the waterline to dangerous levels. With threats of local police enforcing No Wake Zones through most of the area, many feared that this year’s event wasn’t going to happen. Thankfully, with just a few days left to the June 12th weekend, water levels began to recede as quickly as they rose, and any threat to the high-banked levees were removed. Mudbug was a “GO” and The Watercraft Journal would be arriving in top form.
This year would mark my 6th time attending the event, one which I shared exclusively with my oldest daughter up until this point. In light of the fact that the school year was prematurely ended, and that my other two children were finally old enough to enjoy rides on the water, it was decided that the whole family would join the fun. Thankfully, strong gusts from the Gulf had blown in, clarifying the water and dropping the normally brutal humidity to a very palatable percentile. In fact, our four days in Morgan City were some of the most pleasant to date – with temperatures in the low-to-mid 80s and clear blue skies.
Unlike previous years where the world’s fastest personal watercraft sought to size-off against each other in heads up drag racing and then precision radar runs, recent Mudbug Rallys have focused more on the group rides and winding scenery. Perusing the official event thread on Greenhulk.net teased several potential rides to join; the forum acting as the central hub for those visiting the gulf coastal meet. Although our estimated time of arrival would set us in town by mid-afternoon on Thursday, many adventure-seekers were on-site a day or two earlier, careening the trails that branched from the Atchafalaya River.
Wanting to keep kids and wife comfortable over two days of riding also meant carefully picking which watercraft to bring. For this trip, the trailer was loaded with two units completely redesigned for the model year; The Watercraft Journal‘s long-term loaner, a 2020 Sea-Doo GTI SE 170 in Ice Metal and Orange Crush; and a 2020 Kawasaki STX 160LX JetSki in Ebony and Candy Lime Green. Both units represented each brand’s highest-level entry in the Recreation segment of watercraft – the group most targeted towards family-friendly budgets.
Equally, both machines were equipped from the factory with each brand’s respective on-board sound system – Jetsounds for the Kawasaki and Sea-Doo’s BRP Premium Audio Package on the GTI. Curiously, we discovered early on that the Kawasaki’s Jetsounds system offers no “off” button [correction: the power button’s there, just tucked up high, underneath the handlebar pad – Ed.] and will automatically begin playing music synced through your Bluetooth-connected smart phone whether you want it to or not. So just be mindful of that.
Additional standard features found on both machines include Cruise Control and watertight storage cubbies for cell phones found in the glove box. As equipped, our Sea-Doo would fetch $12,199 on the showroom floor, while the Kawasaki would come in $500 less at $11,699. Of course, it’s important to note that the STX 160LX is lacking a functioning brake system – employing a left-hand reverse lever – versus the Sea-Doo’s Intelligent Brake & Reverse system.
Waking up to crystal blue skies, we journeyed up the isthmus between Flat Lake and Lake Palourde, to the gathering spot at Doiron’s Landing just over the levee. The Sea-Doo was fitted with the 4.5-gallon LinQ accessory cooler, as a small Igloo cooler was ratchet-strapped to the narrow swim platform on the Kawasaki – both packed with cold drinks and snacks for the day’s ride.
For our Friday excursion, we joined longtime Mudbug veteran and friend Billy Duplessis for a modified “Flat Lake Loop.” Lead by Louisiana native David Fountain, the path provided a wonderful variety of wide open channels, mirror-smooth water and plenty of twisting, narrow trails passing beneath the shade of overhanging cypress trees dripping with Spanish moss.
My wife and two daughters rode effortlessly aboard the Sea-Doo, it’s two-tier Ergolock seat comfortable for the three of them. From above, the GTI’s redesigned bench is somewhat Coke-bottle shaped, with pinches in the middle for rear passengers to sit more comfortably. Equipped with the newly re-engineered, naturally-aspirated 1630 ACE, our GTI fared well in regards to fuel mileage (averaging a little over 5 miles per gallon) but its limited 15.8-gallon fuel cell drained quickly, causing us to pack it in a little early. Conversely, our STX 160LX barely made a dent in its gargantuan 20-and-a-half gallon tank, tempting us to leave the rest of our party behind.
Nevertheless, the two units were loaded back up onto the trailer while the family cooled off inside of the car, it’s air conditioning blasting frigid air from all vents. It wasn’t until well past 6pm that evening that the rest of Duplessis’ party made it back to the launch ramp. The next morning promised a slightly more calm adventure, albeit a familiar one. PWCTrailfinder.com‘s own Billy Crews promised to take us for a personal tour of Bayou Cocodrie and Bayou Chevreuil, both just north of the previous day’s ride.
Joined by Wade Robinsonand Becky Brown aboard his naturally-aspirated Ultra LX JetSki [correction, a naturally-aspirated Honda F-15 Aquatrax – Ed.], our four watercraft sped up the canal and into the marsh. Above Bayou Gunnie are a series of perpendicular lanes cut into the treeline. These man-made channels were cleared by oil companies, who pump out several thousand gallons of crude a week. While the pipelines rested well below the hulls of our watercraft, the ever-present signs and markers were constant reminders.
At one point, Billy stopped and noted at the remoteness of the swamp recalling a family friend who had become stuck on a shallow sand bar while venturing into the bayou for some quiet fishing had to wait overnight for the tide to come in. Traffic was so irregular that nobody had come by during the 12 hours that he was stuck – a fate we did not want to share.
Racking up several hours’ worth of ride time over two days aboard the redesigned STX revealed some quirks that hadn’t appeared during my initial introduction earlier this year. Although the 2020 redesign radically improves upon the deck of the outgoing STX, the hull itself remains unchanged. In doing so, the overall height of the STX was raised over 4-inches (from 41.3 to 45.4-inches), which is substantial.
This added height changes the Kawasaki’s center of gravity. I soon discovered that at speeds between 30-to-45mph, the STX will teeter on its keel from left to right; only when really ripping at top speed (a GPS-confirmed 58mph) does the Kawasaki feel fully planted and secure. Equally, when riding as a passenger, the rearward weight distribution causes the STX 160LX to porpoise, bobbing its nose up and down – even when skirting across mirror-flat water. The Sea-Doo has also done this at times, but toggling its standardized VTS electric trim quickly resolves it.
Concluding Saturday’s ride, the two skis were loaded up on the trailer and dropped off with Greenhulk‘s own Jerry Gaddis for safe keeping. The next morning, we drove an hour back east to New Orleans for a day in the French Quarter. Founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne, New Orleans’ French Quarter remains one of the continent’s oldest surviving settlements and has remained the nation’s most contested piece of territory – playing key roles in the Seven Years’ War between the French and Spanish; the American Revolution, the Battle of 1812 and of course, the American Civil War.
Lining the banks of the Mississippi River and facing Algiers Point, New Orleans’ French Quarter is one of the nation’s most treasured locations. Upon our arrival, we quickly joined the line for a bag of piping hot beignets from Cafe Du Monde, the renowned open-air coffee shop located on Decatur Street first opened in 1862. After loading up on these traditional French doughnuts doused in layers of powdered sugar, we decided to walk off the sugar rush by touring Decatur Street down to the Place de France displaying its gilded statue of Joan of Arc.
Doubling back towards Jackson Square, we passed by confectioneries selling candied pralines, restaurants preparing slow-cooked gumbo, and even a store arranging for jazz funeral marches. Prior to becoming the gated city park it is today, Jackson Square was once a military parade ground as well as the site for public executions. Even under the shadow of the peaked St. Louis Cathedral, the severed heads of convicted criminals and escaped slaves once hung on display (yikes!).
Next door to the whitewashed walls of the basilica is the Cabildo, the once Spanish colonial city hall. Today the edifice stands as the Louisiana State Museum and location where the final transfer papers for the Louisiana Purchase were signed. As we walked the cobblestone streets, ornate wrought iron balconies and galleries hung above our heads. Decorated with multi-colored strands of beads, flags and Mardi Gras novelties, the entirety of our circuit up and down Royal and Bourbon Streets was a sight to behold – even on a quiet Sunday morning.
Signs advertising ghost tours, voodoo rituals and even a haunted apartment for rent caught my eye. Landmarks like the historical New Orleans Pharmacy & Apothecary, Hotel St. Helene, and even the former home of playwright Tennessee Williams beckoned to my inner history-lover. Instead, we loaded up the family and do some first-hand ghost hunting ourselves at the famed above-ground tombs of the St. Louis Cemetery number 2.
Infamously known as New Orleans’ second Necropolis or “City of The Dead,” the second cemetery was open to the public while the older first above-ground cemetery was closed for renovations. Here early 19th century city planners began relocating their dead in order to stave off the spread of cholera. Here lies the remains of several noteworthy New Orleans Jazz musicians as well as famed French privateer Dominique You who joined General Jackson in his defense against the impending British invasion.
Seeking relief from the delta sun, we hurried over to Sal’s Sno-Ball Stand. A local favorite since 1960, Sal’s has been serving up dozens of different flavors of icy treats – and came to me as a “must go to” stop by Wade Robinson before leaving for home the next day. Doused in a multitude of colorful sugary syrups, we each enjoyed our sno-ball before heading back to Morgan City. That evening we hitched up the trailer yet again, stopped to take the obligatory photograph in front of the Morgan City sign, and readied for the long drive back to Tennessee.
The Mudbug PWC Rally might’ve changed over the years, but the quality of memories made here are no less valuable. Friendships are made and rekindled here. Newfound experiences and stories that can be shared for years always happen at the Mudbug and it’s an annual tradition I strive to never miss.
Additional photography provided by Billy Duplessis.
Today we bring you a story about three Sea-Doo’s and a shark. We came across a 
