The term ‘Jet Ski’ was originally a trademark of Kawasaki. These compact vehicles impress with their responsive throttle, excellent manoeuvrability and powerful acceleration – making them great fun to ride.
Second-hand models are certainly a viable alternative to buying new. Important for prospective buyers in Germany: certain local regulations apply to PWCs. On some inland waterways, riding is only permitted on designated routes or may even be prohibited altogether. You should therefore check driving licence and regional regulations before making a purchase.
The second-hand models shown here are from the stock of Boote Pfister in Schwebheim. The editorial assessment is carried out independently.
Yamaha WaveRunner JetBlaster
Ergonomics & Features
The JetBlaster is based on a motocross design: a raised handlebar position, side footrests at the rear and a narrow hull made from Yamaha’s lightweight Nano-Xcel2 composite material all require active body control. Riders often stand, shift their weight and carve through bends. Yamaha’s RiDE system enables electronic braking and reversing via the left handlebar grip, making it noticeably easier to manoeuvre. With 29 litres of storage space, there’s enough room for day trips; waterproof pack bags are advisable. When inspecting the boat, check the underside of the hull for scuff marks and check the impeller and intake grille for damage caused by foreign objects.
Drive & Performance
Power is provided by a Yamaha TR-1 High Output, a three-cylinder, four-stroke engine with a displacement of 1,049 ccm and 115 PS, transmitted via a 144-mm axial jet pump. Weighing 249 kg, the PWC has a lively power-to-weight ratio. Four operating hours for a 2023 model indicate a long period of inactivity. The age of the fuel, the condition of the battery and the seals should be checked before purchase.
Riding dynamics & rough water
In its weight class and measuring 3.14 metres in length, the JetBlaster is one of the most compact WaveRunners. The narrow hull responds directly to shifts in weight. The design is well-suited to sporty rides and short trips, but less so for long tours with several passengers or a lot of luggage. The 50-litre fuel tank is sufficient for a day on the water when travelling at a moderate pace.
Conclusion & Target Audience
The JetBlaster is aimed at active riders who are looking for dynamic riding performance and easy handling, even on land. At 11,500 euros for four hours’ running time, this is a fair deal; the original price was just under 14,000 euros. Anyone needing a trailer should budget for an additional €1,200 to €1,500. Provided the service history matches the long period of inactivity, this is a sports vehicle in almost new condition.
Technical Specifications
- Year of manufacture: 2023
- Price: 11,500 euros
- Length: 3.14 m
- Width: 1.13 m
- Weight: approx. 249 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 50 litres
- Engine: Yamaha TR-1 High Output, 3-cylinder
- Performance: 115 PS/unleaded
- Operating hours: 4
Sea-Doo RXP X 300 Audio
Ergonomics & Features
The Ergolock-R system, featuring a narrow single seat, deep knee pockets and an adjustable rear seat, creates a close connection between the rider and the PWC, taking the strain off the arms and shoulders during hard acceleration and when negotiating tight bends. Features include a 7.8-inch full-colour display with BRP Connect and a 100-watt Bluetooth audio system.
Music, navigation and smartphone functions can be controlled directly via the handlebar controls. A third-generation iBR system for braking and reversing makes manoeuvring the 300-PS vessel in the harbour noticeably easier. The dark ‘Premium Triple Black’ paintwork shows scratches more quickly than light-coloured gelcoat: check all surfaces in daylight, and also test the iBR-Gate, display pairing and trim system to ensure they are working properly.
Drive & Performance
The Rotax 1630 ACE-300 is a three-cylinder, four-stroke engine with a supercharger and an external intercooler. According to BRP’s factory specifications, it produces 300 PS with an electronically limited top speed of approximately 108 km/h.
Read more on this topic:
Sport, Eco and Slow modes, as well as Launch Control, allow power delivery to be tailored to the situation. The 26 operating hours for the 2023 model year is a reasonable figure. A fresh service should be arranged before handover to change or service the engine oil and filter, spark plugs, jet pump, impeller and wear ring. During a viewing, a cold start and test drive should be carried out.
Riding dynamics & rough water
The deep-v T3-R hull is designed for precise line choice and direct steering response at high speeds. The PWC responds immediately to weight transfer and provides direct feedback in tight bends. The hull performs at its best on calm waters, rivers and sheltered coastal stretches. During high-speed runs in rough water, the direct handling requires more physical effort than with wider touring models. The 70-litre fuel tank offers a comfortable range when ridden at a moderate pace. The towing vehicle and trailer must be rated for a dry weight of 354 kg.
Conclusion & Target Audience
The 2023 Sea-Doo RXP-X RS 300 Audio is currently on offer for 23,900 euros. For a vehicle that has hardly been used and comes with the full tech package, this is a reasonable price, provided that its service history and paintwork prove satisfactory upon inspection.
The target audience comprises sporty riders who, as well as 300 PS, appreciate the audio system and smartphone connectivity in the cockpit, and who enjoy riding their vehicle alone. The PWC does not have a hydraulic steering damper. At high speeds in choppy water, the handlebars transmit the impact of the waves somewhat more directly to the rider, which requires more arm strength. On rivers, lakes and in sheltered waters, however, this is not a major issue.
Technical Specifications
- Year of manufacture: 2023
- Price: 23,900 euros
- Length: 3.31 m
- Width: 1.25 m
- Weight: approx. 354 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 70 litres
- Engine: Rotax 1630 ACE
- Performance: 300 PS/unleaded petrol
- Speed: 108 km/h
- Operating hours: 26
Sea-Doo RXP-X RS APEX
Ergonomics & Features
Deep knee pockets and the sporty-shaped seat provide support for the body during hard acceleration and when cornering. The Ergolock-R system in the Sea-Doo APEX range is exclusively supplemented by a hydraulic steering damper, which is designed to reduce the impact of waves on the handlebars in rough water.
The carbon-fibre fairing and mirrors, the racing livery, and special handles, mats and stitching set this limited-edition model apart from the standard version. In terms of technology, the jet ski is fitted with a 7.8-inch full-colour display including BRP Connect. Also on board: a 100-watt Bluetooth audio system.
A third-generation iBR (intelligent Brake and Reverse) system assists with braking and reversing. During the inspection, all carbon fibre parts should be checked for hairline cracks and all electronic functions should be tested.
Drive & Performance
As with the base model, the PWC is powered by a Rotax 1630 ACE-300 engine producing 300 PS. The top speed is electronically limited to around 108 km/h. Eleven operating hours for a vehicle built in 2023 indicate a long period of inactivity and low mileage. The vehicle should therefore be checked for storage damage.
Sailing Dynamics & Rough Water
The T3-R hull is designed for direct steering response and precise line choice at high speeds. X-sponsons – fins or wings mounted on the sides of the hull – and double-angled footwells support active driving through weight transfer and pressure application. However, this requires experience: anyone who has previously ridden less powerful PWCs should approach the 300 PS with caution. A trailer is not included in the offer.
Conclusion & Target Audience
The RXP-X RS APEX 300 is an uncompromising high-performance PWC for experienced riders who are specifically looking for acceleration, tight turns and exclusive features. Those who do not necessarily require carbon fibre details and a steering damper will find the RS 300 Audio to be a more affordable, technically almost identical alternative. You should definitely take advantage of the test ride and briefing on offer.
Technical Specifications
- Year of manufacture: 2023
- Price: 24,500 euros
- Length: 3.27 m
- Width: 1.23 m
- Weight: 354 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 70 litres
- Engine: Rotax 1630 ACE
- Performance: 300 PS/unleaded petrol
- Speed: 108 km/h
- Operating hours: 11
Sea Doo GTX
Ergonomics & Features
The GTX is designed as a touring PWC: the stepped seat bench accommodates up to three people, whilst the wide hull and upright seating position are ideal for leisurely trips at sea or on inland waters. An LCD display provides basic information; there are no driving modes or a braking and reverse system, which is why manoeuvring and mooring require physical effort. When inspecting the craft, pay attention to the condition of the upholstery, the storage compartment lids and the lid seals: these indicate how carefully the previous owner looked after the craft.
Drive & Performance
Power is provided by a Rotax 947, a two-cylinder two-stroke engine. As a two-stroke, it requires special attention to the RAVE valves (Rotax Adjustable Variable Exhaust) in addition to the usual maintenance: These adjustable exhaust valves become clogged over time; if neglected, they noticeably reduce performance and can lead to engine damage. After more than 20 years, the carburettor, oil injection system and fuel lines are also critical points to check.
The speed of 93 to 97 km/h stated by the manufacturer cannot be taken for granted in a second-hand vehicle of this generation. A cold start and a test run in the water are recommended. A personal watercraft with few hours on the clock but a long period of inactivity and an ageing fuel system may be riskier than a regularly serviced craft with a higher hour reading. A comprehensive service should be arranged prior to handover.
Riding dynamics & rough water
On calm water, the wide hull is ideal for beginners: stable handling, a relaxed seating position and space for passengers. In short, steep waves, however, the Sea-Doo GTX hits the water harder than narrower sports models. Weighing 301 kg and measuring 3.15 metres in length, the craft remains easy to tow. The 56.5-litre fuel tank is sufficient for a moderate day’s use; those who push the power to the limit should not be too optimistic when planning their range.
Conclusion & Target Audience
The GTX is a characterful touring personal watercraft for prospective buyers on a tighter budget who have a basic understanding of DIY. Spare parts for the Rotax 947 are currently still available. If you check the service records, carry out a thorough test ride and set aside a budget for maintenance costs, you can get a reliable first jet ski for €4,850. On the other hand, if you want to ride with as little hassle as possible, you should set aside a larger budget for a newer four-stroke model equipped with a braking and reverse system.
Technical Specifications
- Year of manufacture: 2002
- Price: 4,850 euros
- Length: 3.15 m
- Width: 1.22 m
- Weight: approx. 301 kg
- Fuel tank capacity: 56.5 litres
- Engine: Rotax 947, 2-stroke
- Performance: 135 PS / unleaded
- Speed: 93–97 km/h
- Operating hours: 215
Antonia von Lamezan
Volontärin