Yamaha Introduces New WaveBlaster PWC Two Sport Boat Models for 2027
- BoatBlurb Contributor
- 14 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Yamaha Motor Canada has announced three new products for 2027, including the return of the iconic WaveBlaster name and two sport boat models.
WaveBlaster Returns to Yamaha's WaveRunner Lineup
More than 30 years after the original WaveBlaster established a following among PWC riders, Yamaha is bringing the name back for 2027 with an all-new model.
The original early '90s WaveBlaster built a cult following with a playful, aggressive ride that rewarded skill and body input. The new WaveBlaster draws from that spirit, but is not a reissue. It is an all-new WaveRunner built on a modern hull.
"The return of this name is something enthusiasts have anticipated for years," said Jamie Barnes, Yamaha Motor Canada WaveRunner Product Line Manager, in a press release. "But this launch is about more than bringing back a familiar name. It's about introducing a new generation of riders to the performance, excitement, and legacy that made it iconic in the first place."
According to the company, the new 2027 WaveBlaster is designed around what it calls "inside-lean handling." Rather than remaining relatively flat through a turn, the hull rolls inward as the rider turns, allowing body position to influence the craft's trajectory. The hull has no sponsons, while a centered rider position and molded-in foot chocks are intended to keep the rider positioned through turns.
The WaveBlaster's hull also uses Yamaha's VARTM, or Vacuum-Assisted Resin Transfer Molding, composite construction process, which is also used on the SuperJet. The PWC uses a 144 mm jet pump and SuperJet intake grate, along with a ride plate developed specifically for the WaveBlaster.
Power will come from Yamaha's 1,049 cc TR-1 HO three-cylinder, four-stroke marine engine, pushing 110 horsepower. The WaveBlaster specs come in at 99" long, 38.6" wide, and 42" tall, a dry weight of 425 pounds, and a top speed in the mid-50 mph (80 km/h) range. The new model will also carry Yamaha's L Mode, which can reduce engine output for newer riders or for controlled riding environments.
The new WaveBlaster will also establish Yamaha's new Sport class of WaveRunners, which includes the single-rider WaveBlaster and the stand-up SuperJet.
The 2027 WaveBlaster is scheduled to arrive at authorized dealers in Canada in Q1 2027.
New 18-Foot Sport Boat Platform
Yamaha is also introducing an all-new 18-foot sport boat platform for 2027. The new models will be the AR182, with a tower and full windshield, and the SX180, with a Bimini top and windscreen.
Both models carry an LOA of 17'6" with a 7'6" beam. The hull will feature an 18.5-degree transom deadrise and is designed around a combination of trailerability, garage storage capability, and a six-passenger capacity. The SX180 will carry dry weight of 2,783 pounds, while the AR182 is listed at 2,893 pounds.
"The new 18-foot platform is an important addition to the Yamaha sport boat lineup, creating an accessible pathway for more customers to enter the brand," said Barnes. "It provides PWC owners and first-time boat buyers with a premium upgrade at an attractive entry point, while giving dealers a versatile, easy-to manage model that delivers the signature fun and handling Yamaha is known for. We believe this platform opens the door to a whole new generation of Yamaha boaters."
The boats will be powered by Yamaha's naturally aspirated 1.9-liter High Output (HO) 200 hp engine paired with its jet propulsion system. Estimated top speeds are expected to be in the mid-50 mph (80 km/h) range, depending on conditions and load.
The new platform will also feature Yamaha's patented clean-out port, Connext helm control system, and articulating keel. The clean-out port is located above the waterline at the stern and provides access for removing debris from the jet pump. The articulating keel works with the jet pump nozzles to provide directional stability and steering response.
The cockpit includes marine vinyl upholstery, a 5" Connext display, and four speakers.
Both models will carry seating for up to six passengers and a 30-gallon (113 liter) fuel tank.Yamaha describes the new 18-foot platform as an entry point for first-time boat buyers and PWC owners moving into a sport boat. The company says its size is intended to retain some of the maneuverability and compact storage characteristics associated with smaller watercraft.
The 18-foot models are scheduled to be available at Yamaha boat dealerships in Q1 2027.
Four New 20-Foot Models to Replace Yamaha's 19-Foot Series
Yamaha is replacing its long-running 19-foot sport boat series for 2027 with four new 20-foot models: the 205XD, 205SD, AR205 and AR200.
The new models will carry a 20' LOA with an 8'6" beam. With the new design, each model will feature increased bow sheer and cockpit depth compared with the outgoing 19-foot platform. The boats also feature a new portside convertible backrest that can face forward while cruising or aft during watersports and at-anchor activities. A molded-in cooler and new tower are standard across the lineup.
"Our all-new 20-foot models broaden the Yamaha lineup with more premium offerings while staying true to the compact, easy-to-own design our customers appreciate," said Barnes. "These boats build on growing demand for elevated features and capabilities, introduce new possibilities in wake performance with the 205XD, and create exciting opportunities for both our dealers and the next wave of Yamaha boaters."
The 205XD, 205SD and AR205 will be powered by Yamaha's supercharged 1.8-liter Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) engine. The AR200 will use the 1.9-liter High Output (HO) engine.
The 205XD and 205SD will also introduce Yamaha's single-engine DRiVE system. The system uses a new "remocon" design, throttle-by-wire and Drive Control paddle shifters. The system provides improved low-speed handling and maneuverability during docking and close quarters operations.
The 205XD will be the watersports-focused model, combining the 1.8-liter SVHO engine with integrated ballast, a manual folding wake scoop, and port- and starboard-side ballast bags. The 205XD will also receive an upgraded Hertz stereo system with a subwoofer and will come pre-wired for Yamaha's Siren 3 connected-boat device. The Siren system has features including geofencing, real-time tracking, battery-voltage monitoring, engine-hours and RPM logging, and engine-on/off and temperature alerts through the Siren Connected Boat mobile app.
The four-model range is divided as follows:
205XD: 1.8L SVHO, single-engine DRiVE, integrated ballast, manual folding wake scoop, ballast bags, upgraded Hertz audio and Siren 3 pre-wiring.
205SD: 1.8L SVHO and single-engine DRiVE.
AR205: 1.8L SVHO and single engine.
AR200: 1.9L HO and single engine.
The new 20-foot lineup is scheduled to reach Yamaha dealerships in Q1 2027.
The 2027 announcements come after two consecutive years of significant new-product introductions from Yamaha.
For 2025, Yamaha expanded its compact WaveRunner offerings with four new JetBlaster models, including the freestyle-oriented JetBlaster PRO. The lineup combined Yamaha's TR-1 engine family with a compact hull and polypropylene composite deck construction.
For 2026, Yamaha moved in the opposite direction with the much-publicized CrossWave, a nearly 13-foot PWC platform with an open bow, removable seating for up to four passengers, and 311 litres of storage. 2026 also saw the company introduce the 295 Series, its largest jet boat platform.
Canadian availability for the new 2027 lineup through Yamaha dealers is expected in Q1 2027.
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