Five cool new jet skis at the 2024 Melbourne Boat Show

The newest PWC at the Melbourne Boat Show was the Yamaha JetBlaster which presents a strong rival for the popular Sea-Doo Spark range.

Yamaha has completely redesigned the 90s-inspired JetBlaster for 2025, bringing it closer to the Spark (some critics believe it to be too close).

New for 2025 is a reinforced polypropylene top deck for reduced weight and maximum performance and stability at speed. It’s powered by the TR-1 1049cc marine engine and sits on a compact and stable hull.

There are four variants in the JetBlaster range including a base model, the JetBlaster Deluxe, the JetBlaster Pro 2-Up, and the JetBlaster Pro 3-Up.

Yamaha also had its legendary SuperJet stand-up PWC on display. The current four-stroke version was introduced a few years ago to replace the classic two-stroke original and is powered by the same three-cylinder 1049cc motor as the JetBlaster.

While the engine is bigger and more powerful than the old model, Yamaha claims only a 31kg weight increase. This is made even more impressive by the fact that the hull and deck of the modern SuperJet are wider and longer. This helps make the new ski accessible to riders of all skill levels.

Notable features include a fuel gauge, a ‘learner’ power mode, an adjustable hand pole, a grab handle for reboarding in deep water, and an open loop cooling system.

Despite the recent announcement of its 2025 range, the Sea-Doo stand was populated with 2024 models (though the updates for the new model-year are minimal).

Perhaps the star of the show was the FishPro Trophy, which Sea-Doo says is primed for “tournament-level fishing”.

Sea-Doo has just announced a higher-spec FishPro Apex model, but the Trophy (at $30,599) is still an incredibly well-equipped fishing ski.

The Trophy is powered by Sea-Doo’s 170hp Rotax 1630 ACE engine and sits on the ST3 hull which allows for a spacious and easy-to-access deck.

Features include the iDF debris-removal system, a full-colour 7.8-inch display with connectivity and integrated audio system; dual batteries and a 650-watt charging system; an anchoring system; LinQ attachments on the rear deck, and a 96L waterproof front storage area with integrated USB port.

It also comes with five fishing rod holders; a fish finder and GPS unit; a swivel seat; bench seat; trolling mode; gunwhale footrests and quick connect livewell.

The Spark was the pioneer of the modern lite recreation segment, with a focus on lightweight agility and manoeuvrability for beginners and freestyle riders.

Sitting at the top of the range is the Trixx variant which starts from $13,699 and comes in single and triple seat configurations.

The clever Trixx Mode feature allows for more thrust in reverse, giving riders more options for creative freestyle manoeuvres. The ski is powered by the Rotax 900 ACE engine which is capable of 90hp.   

There is also a variable trim system, adjustable handlebar riser, integrated footwell wedges, and an optional detachable and portable audio system.

The performance king of the Sea-Doo range is the three-seat RXT-X RS (or two-seat RXP-X RS depending on your preference).

With a whopping 325hp supercharged Rotax 1630 powerplant, the RXT-X RS is one of the fastest production PWCs on the market.

It starts at $33,799 and comes with a hydraulic steering damper system, X sponsons, a polished impeller, and extended variable trim system with launch mode, all making for a high-performance ski.

Other features include a 7.8-inch full colour display with connectivity, a 100W waterproof audio system, and an ergolock system with modular seat. All of this sits on the proven ST3 hull.