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2025 Yamaha JetBlaster LTD

Boat Reviews

Boat Review by: Rick Layzell

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Yamaha enters the 2025 model year with an all-new series of WaveRunner models aimed at an emerging market segment. The JetBlaster lineup offers a total of four unique models (six if you count 2-up or 3-up variations) each with its own set of standard inclusions targeted at a younger demographic.

Welcome to the JetBlaster, JetBlaster DLX, JetBlaster PRO and JetBlaster. Yamaha positions these models as the ‘All New Rec-Lite Platform’ and other than the use of their proven SMC hull construction and reliable TR-1 engine, pretty much everything about the JetBlaster is indeed all new.

The JetBlaster LTD comes standard as a 3-seater configuration lending market appeal to the towing oriented crowd while still offering plenty of playful characteristics like her other siblings in the series. Out of the box benefits include the Connext gauge system, RiDE technology, the pumped up TR-1 HO engine platform, and slick styling trim and stern mats. An easy reboarding step flips down from the transom, while notched-in hand grips on the deck provide the assistance for any rider who goes in for a dip. You’ll also appreciate the bow storage locker, side mirrors, and handlebar-mounted tie hooks on the LTD model.

The reliable TR-1 engine gets a HP bump in the LTD model to 110 HP and is re-badged as the TR-1 HO. There’s an all new jet pump throughout the JetBlaster series lineup and this too has been designed and purpose built for this series. Featuring a new transom plate, new impeller and impeller housing, new nozzle and new aluminum deflector and trim ring, the new design adds exceptional playfulness to the JetBlaster series. The LTD model impeller design provides improved acceleration and the trim angle extends to 20.5 degrees supporting that playful feel to the JetBlaster series.

Yamaha chose to utilize their proven SMC hull design which gives the confidence and durability of fiberglass construction to all JetBlaster models. SMC is also readily repaired by most fiberglass shops if there’s ever a need – a definite owner benefit. It’s up on the deck where Yamaha has changed the game with the use of their first-ever Polypropylene 3-part deck. This significant manufacturing shift adds the benefits of reliability and durability of in-mould colour that’s user friendly, and easy to clean and maintain.

An important feature is Yamaha’s RiDE technology – Reverse Intuitive Deceleration Electronics which has been included on many of their larger WaveRunner models for several years. RiDE is simply activated from any speed by grabbing the lever on the left side of the handle bar. This drops a bucket over the jet nozzle and decelerates your forward motion with a sense of total control. I had the opportunity to test RiDE from a variety of speeds and it works exceptionally well. Need to back the machine up or use reverse while docking? No sweat, just grab a handful of that lever and you’re in reverse. I would encourage any owner to take a few moments to learn the benefits and applications of RiDE.

The Connext gauge package is user friendly and the 4.3” gauge is easy to see at all speeds. When you first hit the start button on your JetBlaster LTD, the system comes to life with the Yamaha logo and moves to the default home screen which displays speed, RPM, trim, fuel, and voltage readings. The Connext tab below the handlebars guides you to the next display which offers up trip and fuel info, hours, distance traveled, fuel burn, miles per gallon (MPG), and gallons per hour. Next tab takes you to a very clever drive control screen which allows owners to control the amount of horsepower available to guest riders. Factory default setting is full power and there’s a middle and low setting for less experienced riders available. One of my favorite Connext features is the engine lock screen – just add your own secret passcode to lockout the machine. Awesome security.

Riding experiences on the JetBlaster LTD will be as far reaching as your minds imagination. Looking for an afternoon cruise with your favourite partner? Done. Got a mid-morning desire for some solo adrenaline on a machine capable of 83 km/h (51 mph) at the top end? Certainly. Take the kids for a tube? Of course.

Expect Yamaha to come to market with a selection of accessories for you to personalize your JetBlaster. At the time of this writing we heard rumours of side and stern storage bag options, Bluetooth speakers, custom covers and more.

Yamaha’s global reputation for delivering exceptional quality products is undeniable. Their foresight in looking at their ‘next customer’ by creating products designed for a younger audience will enhance the brands future for years to come. Meanwhile, we get to be the benefactors of their planning by experiencing this awesome product today. Get into a Yamaha dealer or over to a local boat show soon, I suspect the JetBlaster models will not last long on showroom floors.