If you’ve ever dreamed of a personal watercraft that feels more like a floating adventure platform than just a fast toy, Yamaha has just made that dream real. Meet the Yamaha CrossWave WaveRunner, a brand-new kind of watercraft designed not only for speed and thrills but also for exploring, relaxing, fishing, and even just hanging out with friends on the water.
This is not just another model in Yamaha’s lineup—it’s the most versatile and lifestyle-focused WaveRunner the company has ever created. Instead of only thinking about how fast you can go or how sharp you can turn, the CrossWave is all about how much more you can do once you’re out there.
Bryan Seti, General Manager of Yamaha WaterCraft, summed it up perfectly when he said, “The CrossWave is about going farther and doing more—with the space, flexibility, and purpose that a growing segment of the PWC industry has been waiting for.” So, let’s take a closer look at what makes the Yamaha CrossWave such a game-changer.
Redefining What a Personal Watercraft Can Be
When most of us picture a WaveRunner, we think of a sleek machine that holds one or two riders, built for speed and playful maneuvering. The CrossWave takes that familiar idea and stretches it into something much bigger – literally and figuratively.
At almost 13 feet long and over 5 and a half feet wide, it’s much larger than Yamaha’s already roomy FX Series. This extra space doesn’t just make it more stable; it also changes the way you move around on it.
Instead of being locked into one seating arrangement, you get a flat, walkaround deck from front to back. The bow is open, the stern can be reconfigured, and the whole thing feels like you’re standing on a mini boat rather than straddling a jet ski. You can climb on from any side, walk freely, or just stretch out.
And here’s something no other personal watercraft offers right now—a true walkaround layout with room for up to four people. The rear seats can be removed to open up even more deck space. That means it can transform from a people mover into a fishing platform, a gear hauler, or even a floating picnic spot.
Storage That Actually Works for Adventures
One of the biggest frustrations with most PWCs is storage. Sure, you can tuck away a few essentials, but not much more. The CrossWave blows that limitation away with a massive 82 gallons of storage—the most ever on a personal watercraft.
It’s not just about size, though. Yamaha designed it with real-world use in mind. There’s a dedicated spot for your anchor, room for fishing rods, and two stern compartments built right into the hull. Whether you’re hauling a cooler, fishing gear, snorkeling equipment, or just extra snacks for the family, you’ll actually have space for it.
Plus, Yamaha’s clever T-Track system runs throughout the deck. This track is like a built-in mounting rail that lets you add and adjust accessories wherever you want. Think rod holders, washdown kits, shallow water anchors, or even a trolling motor. It means your CrossWave can be customized for each trip, whether that’s a fishing expedition or a relaxing day at anchor.
Technology That Keeps Up With You
The CrossWave doesn’t just give you space—it gives you smart tools to use it well. At the helm, you’ll find something brand new to the PWC world: a floating console with dual touchscreen displays.
One is Yamaha’s own 7-inch Connext screen, which controls the craft’s main systems, and the other is a 7-inch Simrad chartplotter and fishfinder. Together, they make navigating, fishing, and monitoring your ride simpler than ever. Everything is designed to feel intuitive, even for those who aren’t tech experts.
And since music is part of any good day on the water, Yamaha added integrated 8-inch footwell speakers that play your favorite tunes via Bluetooth. If that’s not enough, the system is expandable so you can build a full onboard entertainment setup.
Behind the scenes, Yamaha thought about power, too. Unlike traditional PWCs, the CrossWave is wired for a Group 24 deep cycle marine battery. Translation? You can run more electronics, more reliably, without worrying about draining your main system. There’s even a built-in battery switch so you can cut power completely when it’s parked, saving battery life.
And just in case you end up in weedy or shallow waters, Yamaha included its patented cleanout port. It lets you clear debris from the jet pump without getting wet—a small feature that makes a big difference when you’re out in the middle of nowhere.
Performance Backed by Yamaha’s Largest Engine
All the extra features in the world wouldn’t mean much if the CrossWave couldn’t perform. Thankfully, Yamaha gave it the biggest engine in the personal watercraft industry, a 1.9-liter High Output Marine Engine.
This engine isn’t just about raw power, though it definitely delivers that. It’s about dependable performance, fuel efficiency, and smooth handling. Whether you’re cruising across a wide lake, exploring shallow back bays, or relaxing at anchor, the CrossWave has the muscle to get you there comfortably.
One Model That Fits Every Lifestyle
Instead of offering a bunch of trim levels, Yamaha is selling the CrossWave in one premium package. But don’t worry—this isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Because of the modular accessory system, every CrossWave can be customized.
Want to fish? Add a casting deck and rod holders. Planning family outings? Set up extra seating and storage. More of a relax-and-play type? Stick with the cooler and Bluetooth speakers.
Every unit comes with a Yamaha marine trailer and a custom 55-quart cooler included. That means you’re ready to hit the water the same day you pick it up, no extra purchases required.
Availability and What’s Next
The Yamaha CrossWave WaveRunner will officially hit dealerships across the U.S. in spring 2026. Pricing hasn’t been revealed yet, but Yamaha promises it will be announced closer to launch.
What’s certain is that this isn’t just another PWC release—it’s a whole new category. By blending utility, comfort, and fun into one platform, Yamaha has created a machine that appeals to thrill-seekers, explorers, and families alike.
Why the CrossWave Stands Out
When you step back and look at the CrossWave, it’s clear why it’s generating buzz. It’s not trying to replace traditional jet skis or luxury boats. Instead, it’s carving out its own space somewhere in between.
It’s a boat when you need it to be. It’s a floating dock when you want to hang out. It’s a fishing vessel when the mood strikes. And yes, it’s still a Yamaha WaveRunner, which means it’s reliable, safe, and fun.
For anyone who’s ever wished their watercraft could do more, the CrossWave is the answer. It’s built for today’s lifestyle-driven rider, the kind of person who doesn’t just want a ride but wants an experience on the water.
Final Thoughts
The Yamaha CrossWave WaveRunner is proof that personal watercraft are evolving. No longer just for speed runs or joyrides, they’re becoming true adventure machines.
With its walkaround deck, massive storage, modular accessories, dual touchscreen technology, and powerful engine, the CrossWave sets a new benchmark. It’s big, it’s versatile, and it’s ready to take on any kind of water adventure you can imagine.
Come spring 2026, riders across the country will get their first chance to see and experience it for themselves. And once they do, it’s safe to say the definition of a personal watercraft will never be the same again.
Source: Yamaha
