Top 10 Touring Jet Skis 2027

1. Sea-Doo GTX 300

The Sea-Doo GTX 300 ranks first because it delivers the most complete balance of comfort, control, and storage for all-day touring. Its supercharged 300-hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine and stable ST3 hull, measuring 137.6 inches with a 49.4-inch beam, provide a planted ride. It carries three riders, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and offers over 40 gallons of storage. The iBR electronic brake and 7.8-inch display round out a package starting at $17,899.

This ski is for riders who want a no-compromise luxury tourer with a top speed near 67 mph and effortless long-range capability. It trades away the lighter weight and lower price of the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO for superior stability and amenities. Compared to the Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO ranked second, the GTX 300 offers more storage and a smoother, less aggressive power delivery, making it the better all-around choice for relaxed cruising.

2. Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO

The Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO ranks second for offering the most powerful and technologically advanced touring experience, with a supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO engine producing roughly 250 hp. Its NanoXcel2 hull, at 140.9 inches with a 50-inch beam, provides a confident and planted ride in open water. It features a Connext 7-inch touchscreen, RiDE dual-throttle brake and reverse, and a plush three-up cruiser seat.

This model is for riders who prioritize raw power and premium helm technology over the Sea-Doo GTX 300's superior storage. It trades away the GTX's class-leading 40+ gallons of storage for a slightly higher price and a more aggressive engine character. Compared to the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX ranked third, the FX Cruiser SVHO offers significantly more horsepower and a more refined ride, but at a higher cost and with less fuel range.

3. Kawasaki Ultra 160LX

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX ranks third because it offers the longest range and best big-water stability at a value price, starting at $14,999. Its supercharged 1,498cc inline-four produces about 160 hp, and its heavy, deep-vee hull at 140.9 inches with a 48.8-inch beam shrugs off rough water. It carries a class-leading 20.6-gallon fuel tank, seats three, and includes standard electronic cruise control.

This ski is for riders who prioritize fuel range and rough-water composure over outright power and electronic brakes. It trades away the 250-hp engine and Connext touchscreen of the Yamaha FX Cruiser SVHO for a lower price and a 2.1-gallon fuel capacity advantage. Compared to the Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230 ranked fourth, the Ultra 160LX offers a larger fuel tank and a heavier, more stable hull, but lacks the wakeboarding versatility.

4. Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230

The Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230 ranks fourth for blending genuine touring comfort with full watersports versatility, starting at $16,099. Its supercharged 230-hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine and stable ST3 hull, at 137.6 inches with a 49.4-inch beam, provide a smooth ride. It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and includes a retractable ski pylon, board racks, and a wakeboard-specific tow mode. The iBR brake and reverse and cruise control enhance both towing and touring control.

This model is for touring families who also want to pull skiers or wakeboarders, offering a do-it-all package. It trades away the long-range 20.6-gallon fuel tank of the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX for tow-sports gear and a lighter 836-lb hull. Compared to the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO ranked fifth, it provides more power and versatility but costs $2,600 more, making it a premium choice for active families.

5. Yamaha VX Cruiser HO

The Yamaha VX Cruiser HO ranks fifth as the best value touring jet ski, starting at just $13,499. Its naturally aspirated 1.8-liter High Output engine produces about 180 hp, and its light NanoXcel hull at 131.9 inches with a 48.4-inch beam makes it easy to handle. It seats three on a genuine cruiser seat, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and includes RiDE dual-throttle brake and reverse, cruise control, and a 4.3-inch display.

This ski is for budget-conscious riders who want real touring comfort without the supercharged price tag. It trades away the 230-hp engine and watersports gear of the Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230 for a $2,600 savings and a lighter 720-lb hull. Compared to the Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300 ranked sixth, it offers a far lower price and easier trailering, but lacks the luxury amenities and 300-hp power.

6. Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300

The Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300 ranks sixth for being the most amenity-rich touring jet ski, with a starting MSRP of $19,499. It pairs the same 300-hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine and stable ST3 hull as the GTX 300, measuring 137.6 inches with a 49.4-inch beam. It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and comes loaded with a BRP Audio-Premium sound system, LinQ cargo with a removable cooler, and adjustable handlebars and seat.

This model is for luxury buyers who want every touring amenity standard from the factory, without aftermarket additions. It trades away the value proposition of the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO for a $6,000 higher price and significantly more features and power. Compared to the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX ranked seventh, it offers a more refined ride and better storage, but less raw horsepower and a smaller fuel tank.

7. Kawasaki Ultra 310LX

The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX ranks seventh for delivering the most powerful engine in the touring class, with a supercharged 1,498cc inline-four producing about 310 hp. Its deep 140.9-inch hull with a 48.8-inch beam and a heavy dry weight near 1,058 lb provides immense stability in rough water. It seats three, carries a large 20.6-gallon fuel tank, and includes a JETSOUND 4S audio system, electronic cruise control, and a plush touring seat.

This ski is for power-hungry tourers who want maximum thrust and long range in a big-water hull. It trades away the refined ride and superior storage of the Sea-Doo GTX Limited 300 for 10 more horsepower and a 2.1-gallon larger fuel tank. Compared to the Yamaha FX Limited ranked eighth, it offers more power and range but a heavier, less nimble feel and a less advanced touchscreen interface.

8. Yamaha FX Limited

The Yamaha FX Limited ranks eighth as the fully loaded Yamaha touring flagship, starting at $20,099. Its supercharged 1.8-liter SVHO engine produces roughly 250 hp, and the NanoXcel2 hull at 140.9 inches with a 50-inch beam offers a planted ride. It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and bundles a premium audio system, cooler, fenders, dual cup holders, and a Connext 7-inch touchscreen with RiDE brake and reverse.

This model is for buyers who want a turnkey luxury tourer with every extra included from the factory, avoiding aftermarket hassle. It trades away the 310-hp engine and larger fuel tank of the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX for a more refined ride and a more advanced helm interface. Compared to the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX SE Touring ranked ninth, it offers significantly more power and features but costs over $4,000 more.

9. Kawasaki Ultra 160LX SE Touring

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX SE Touring ranks ninth for adding comfort and tech to the value-oriented 160LX platform, starting at $15,999. Its supercharged 1,498cc inline-four makes about 160 hp, and the deep 140.9-inch hull with a 48.8-inch beam provides a stable ride. It seats three, carries a huge 20.6-gallon fuel tank, and adds an upgraded touring seat, JETSOUND audio, and a color display.

This ski is for riders who want the big-hull stability and long range of the Ultra platform with added standard features. It trades away the 250-hp engine and Connext touchscreen of the Yamaha FX Limited for a $4,100 lower price and a larger fuel tank. Compared to the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO ranked tenth, it offers more standard audio and a heavier, more stable hull, but a less refined ride and smaller display.

10. Yamaha FX Cruiser HO

The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO ranks tenth for delivering full-size FX touring comfort with a simpler, naturally aspirated engine, starting at $15,699. Its 1.8-liter High Output four-cylinder produces about 180 hp, and the NanoXcel2 hull at 140.9 inches with a 50-inch beam offers a stable ride. It seats three, holds 18.5 gallons of fuel, and includes the Connext 7-inch touchscreen, RiDE brake and reverse, and a plush cruiser seat.

This model is for riders who want the spacious FX platform and advanced helm without the maintenance costs of a supercharged engine. It trades away the 160-hp engine and larger 20.6-gallon tank of the Kawasaki Ultra 160LX SE Touring for a more refined ride and a larger touchscreen. Compared to the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO ranked fifth, it offers a bigger hull and better display but costs $2,200 more, making it a premium low-maintenance choice.

How we ranked these

We weighted each watercraft against what touring riders actually prioritize for long, comfortable days on the water. We leaned on published data from Personal Watercraft (PWC) magazine, The Watercraft Journal, boats.com, Discover Boating, and manufacturer specification pages from Sea-Doo, Yamaha, and Kawasaki. The weighting: ride comfort and stability (25%), on-water performance and range (20%), value and price (15%), seating/storage/layout (15%), features/tech (15%), and resale/reliability (10%).

A ski that nails top speed but beats you up in chop, or wins on horsepower but skimps on storage, drops fast. The winners balance comfort, capability, and cost for the long-haul rider.

We deliberately ignored pure top-speed numbers beyond a sanity check, because touring is about endurance, not sprinting. We also ignored brand loyalty, marketing hype, and any subjective styling preferences. We did not factor in dealer availability or regional pricing variations, which can shift value significantly. We excluded aftermarket accessories and custom tuning, focusing only on stock configurations.

Finally, we did not consider used-market depreciation rates beyond a general reliability score, since 2027 model-year data is too new for meaningful resale trends.

What to look for

What actually matters is hull stability in chop, fuel range, seat comfort for three, and usable storage. A deep-vee hull like the Kawasaki Ultra or Sea-Doo ST3 tracks straight and soaks up waves, while a lighter hull is easier to trailer but busier in rough water. Fuel capacity separates a 20.6-gallon Ultra from an 18.5-gallon norm—that's real distance between stops. Electronic brakes (iBR or RiDE) transform docking and emergency stops.

Check the seat supports three adults and that handlebars adjust to your frame. Amenities like a front bin, audio, and a cooler add daily value.

The mistake most buyers make is fixating on horsepower and top speed. A 310-hp Ultra 310LX is thrilling, but for touring, a 180-hp VX Cruiser HO with a plush seat and RiDE brake delivers 90% of the experience at thousands less. Buyers also overlook maintenance costs: supercharged engines demand more service and premium fuel. They ignore ergonomics—a seat that feels fine for 20 minutes becomes agony after three hours.

Finally, they underestimate storage; 40 gallons on the GTX 300 beats competitors by a wide margin, and that matters for all-day trips.

Related questions

What is the best touring jet ski for rough water?

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and Ultra 310LX are the top picks for rough water. Their heavy, deep-vee hulls (around 1,047–1,058 lb dry) and 48.8-inch beams cut through chop and track straight at cruising speed. The 20.6-gallon fuel tank also gives the longest range, so you can stay out longer in challenging conditions. The Sea-Doo GTX 300 with its ST3 hull is a close second, offering a smoother ride with less weight.

Which touring jet ski has the most storage?

The Sea-Doo GTX 300 and GTX Limited 300 lead with over 40 gallons of storage, including a direct-access front bin. This is a significant edge over competitors like the Yamaha FX series, which typically offers less usable space. For touring, this means you can carry a cooler, dry bags, and extra gear without sacrificing passenger comfort. The Kawasaki Ultra models also offer generous storage but trail the Sea-Doo's total volume.

Are supercharged jet skis worth the extra cost for touring?

Supercharged engines (like the 300-hp Rotax or 310-hp Kawasaki) provide thrilling acceleration and higher top speeds, but they cost more upfront and require more maintenance, including premium fuel and more frequent service. For most touring riders, a naturally aspirated engine like the 180-hp Yamaha HO is sufficient, offering lower running costs and simpler upkeep. Choose supercharged only if you crave maximum power and are prepared for the added expense.

What is the difference between Sea-Doo iBR and Yamaha RiDE?

Both are electronic brake and reverse systems that use dual throttle levers. Sea-Doo's iBR (iControl Brake and Reverse) and Yamaha's RiDE both allow you to brake by pulling the left lever, and reverse by pulling both. They dramatically improve docking and low-speed maneuverability. The main difference is feel: iBR is often described as more aggressive, while RiDE is smoother. Kawasaki's Ultra line lacks this feature, offering only a mechanical reverse.

Can you tow a wakeboarder with a touring jet ski?

Yes, many touring jet skis can tow a wakeboarder, but the Sea-Doo Wake Pro 230 is specifically designed for this. It includes a retractable ski pylon, board racks, and a wakeboard-specific tow mode. Other models like the GTX 300 can tow with an aftermarket pylon, but the Wake Pro's integrated system is more convenient and secure. For occasional towing, any 180-hp+ ski will work, but for regular use, choose a dedicated tow model.

How many hours will a touring jet ski engine last?

With proper maintenance, a modern jet ski engine can last 300–500 hours or more. Naturally aspirated engines (like the Yamaha HO) typically last longer than supercharged ones because they run cooler and have less stress. Regular oil changes, winterization, and fresh water flushing are critical. A well-maintained 180-hp engine can easily exceed 500 hours, while a supercharged 300-hp engine may need a rebuild around 300–400 hours. Always follow the manufacturer's service schedule.

What is the best touring jet ski for a beginner?

The Yamaha VX Cruiser HO is the best choice for beginners. It's the lightest touring ski here at 720 lb, making it easy to handle on the trailer and in the water. Its 180-hp engine is manageable, and the RiDE brake/reverse system provides confidence when docking. The 4.3-inch display is simple, and the cruiser seat is comfortable. It's also the most affordable, so you can learn without a huge investment.

The Sea-Doo GTX 170 is another good option.

How much does it cost to maintain a touring jet ski?

Annual maintenance costs vary. For a naturally aspirated engine like the Yamaha HO, budget $200–$400 per year for oil changes, filters, and winterization. Supercharged engines (Rotax 300, SVHO) cost more—$400–$700—due to more frequent oil changes and supercharger service (every 100–200 hours). Add $100–$200 for a new battery every few years, and $300–$500 for a full service at a dealer. Fuel costs depend on usage, but supercharged models require premium fuel.

FAQ

Which touring jet ski is the best overall for 2027?

The Sea-Doo GTX 300 earns our top spot for balancing a smooth 300-hp Rotax engine, a stable ST3 hull, class-leading storage over 40 gallons, the iBR brake, and an effortless all-day ride with no major weakness.

What is the best value touring jet ski?

The Yamaha VX Cruiser HO starting near $13,499 delivers a genuine three-up cruiser seat, a 180-hp 1.8-liter HO engine, RiDE brake and reverse, and cruise control for the lowest price on this list.

Which touring jet ski has the longest range?

The Kawasaki Ultra 160LX and Ultra 310LX carry a large 20.6-gallon fuel tank, the biggest here, giving them the longest range between stops for serious touring.

Which touring jet ski is the most powerful?

The Kawasaki Ultra 310LX leads at roughly 310 hp, ahead of the 300-hp Sea-Doo GTX 300 and the 250-hp Yamaha FX SVHO models.

Do touring jet skis have brakes?

Sea-Doo models use iBR (iControl Brake and Reverse) and Yamaha uses RiDE dual-throttle brake and reverse; the Kawasaki Ultra line offers reverse but no electronic brake.

How many people can a touring jet ski carry?

Every ski on this list seats three riders on a touring or cruiser seat, though passenger comfort varies. The Sea-Doo GTX and Yamaha FX models offer the most spacious seating, while the Kawasaki Ultra is also roomy. Always check the rated capacity.

What is the top speed of the Sea-Doo GTX 300?

The Sea-Doo GTX 300 reaches a top speed near 67 mph, which is plenty for touring. It's not the fastest on the list (the Kawasaki Ultra 310LX also hits 67 mph), but its stability at speed makes it feel secure.

Is the Yamaha VX Cruiser HO good for long trips?

Yes, the VX Cruiser HO is excellent for long trips. Its 18.5-gallon fuel tank provides a good range, and the cruiser seat is comfortable for three. The 180-hp engine is efficient and reliable, and the RiDE brake adds safety. It's not as plush as the FX or GTX, but it's a great budget tourer.

What is the difference between the Sea-Doo GTX 300 and GTX Limited 300?

The GTX Limited 300 adds premium amenities to the standard GTX 300: a BRP Audio-Premium sound system, LinQ cargo with a removable cooler, adjustable handlebars and seat, and a few extra pounds. Both share the same 300-hp engine and ST3 hull. The Limited costs about $1,600 more, so choose it if you want factory-installed luxury.

Are there any touring jet skis with a closed-loop cooling system?

Yes, Sea-Doo models use a closed-loop cooling system that protects the engine from saltwater corrosion. Yamaha and Kawasaki use open-loop systems that draw water directly from the lake or ocean, which requires more thorough flushing after saltwater use. For saltwater riders, a closed-loop system is a significant advantage.

Sources

• https://watercraftjournal.com/satisfying-silver-streak-2020-sea-doo-gtx-limited-300/
• https://www.yamahawaverunners.com/waverunner/series/luxury/fx-cruiser-svho/
• https://watersportequip.com/kawasaki-jet-ski-ultra-160-lx-s-2024
• https://www.boattrader.com/boat/2019-sea-doo-wake-pro-230-9416041/
• https://breweryacht.com/listings/2019-yamaha-waverunner-11-vx-cruiser-ho/2798382/
• https://www.sea-doo.com/us/en/models/touring/gtx-limited.html
• https://www.kawasaki.es/es/products/Jet_Ski_/2022/Ultra_310LX/multimedia?Uid=0853C10JX1BdXglcCg5cXFtaWFFQCQxZCVtZDVgOW1taW1w
• https://www.speednationpowersports.com/Watercraft-Yamaha-FX-Limited-SVHO-2026-New-Hudson-MI-58612b33-6236-4d20-b3ff-b33e00848396
• https://www.kawasaki.eu/en/ATV_Mule_JetSki/jet-ski/Ultra160LX_2026.html
• https://www.boats.com/boats-for-sale/?make=yamaha-waverunner&model=fx-cruiser-ho

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