If it were possible to package a splishing, splashing good time into a box, that box would have to be big enough to hold a Yamaha AR190. For sheer unadulterated fun on the water the AR190 is going to be exceptionally tough to beat, thanks to traits like sporty jet boat handling, watersports-ready regalia, and eyebrow-raising value.
Yamaha is the number one jet boat brand in the world and taking a look at this model it’s easy to see why. Start with the fact that it comes rigged and ready with a comprehensive list of features plus a trailer, at a price that’s significantly lower than most outboard boats of the same size. Then consider that it boasts a supercharged 1.9L HO engine. While Yamaha doesn’t publish horsepower ratings for these jet powerplants, most estimates place it at a whopping 200 horses. And then add in the fact that the AR190 is designed stem-to-stern to be comfortable and ergonomic, from the bow lounger-style seats to the two-level swim platform with cushioned backrests for aft-facing seating.
The AR190 is intended for families that enjoy watersports, and it’s rigged accordingly. It has a ski locker in the deck, a multilevel integrated swim platform with a telescopic boarding ladder, a folding aluminum wakeboard tower with tow hook and Bimini top as part of the package, and there’s a rear-view windshield mirror. All you need is a full tank of gas, a rope, and a board, and you’re ready to dive right into tow sports. But on top of that it also boasts a healthy list of comfort features like snap-in carpet, integrated drink holders, courtesy lighting, a 12-V outlet, a removable dinette table, foam padding on the swim platform, and a four-speaker stereo system.
Watersports fun and comfort are great, but if you’re considering getting a jet boat, performance is undoubtedly a big consideration. We’ve blasted across lakes and bays on the AR190, topping the 40-mph mark and enjoying the absolutely radical handling that only a jet boat with an articulating keel can provide. And slow speed handling gets a boost with Yamaha’s “No Wake Mode” control, which takes the guesswork out of throttling. A button sets the engine at one of three stages so you can select an rpm appropriate for the slow speed zone, while still producing enough thrust to maintain good steering control. You get a break from throttling at cruising speeds, too, thanks to the Cruise Assist cruise control. Another trademark Yamaha touch that can’t go unmentioned is the five-inch Connext screen at the helm. This touchscreen interface serves as a comprehensive digital gauge displaying everything from fuel level to speed and has the internal brain power to calculate things like fuel economy data and No Wake/Cruise assist status.
Seating is another highlight, with a whopping-big eight-person capacity and a layout in basic bowrider form. L-shaped seating runs across the transom and up the port side, and there’s a single pedestal captain’s chair at the helm. Forward of the swing-open windshield the bow cockpit is arranged for a pair of passengers to enjoy comfortable forward-facing seating, and there’s also room for a third to sit facing aft in the center. The swim platform seating is for use when the boat’s at rest, perfect for keeping an eye on the kids as they take a dip in the creek. And if you want to add some submerged seating for hanging out at the beach or on the hook, there’s a “Swim Up” seat bracket already installed.
You want everyone in the family to be happy? A very, very big box jam-packed full of fun should do the trick. Maybe add a red ribbon on top, since it is after all the holiday season. Just don’t plan on putting it under the tree unless you have a very, very big living room.
By Lenny Rudow
Yamaha AR190 Specifications:
LOA: 19’5”
Beam: 8’2”
Draft (min.): 1’3”
Displacement (approx.): 2434 lbs.
Transom Deadrise: 18 degrees
Fuel Capacity: 40 gal.
Max HP: NA (Single 1.9L Yamaha HO)
Local Dealer: Beacon Light Marina in Middle River, MD. (410) 335-6200 or beaconlightmarina.com