Product review:
Steady and Versatile

If you are searching for a solid, versatile and powerful jet ski for cruising and intended for family use as well, the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO might just be the PWC that you are looking for. This larger Waverunner seats 1-3 people and comes loaded with storage, technology, and a fully controllable driving experience.

This personal watercraft has the 3rd largest storage capacity of all jet skis, making it a great option for those who like to escape out on the water for hours at a time. 44.5 gallons of storage spanning four areas across this PWC gives easy access for all riders from every angle.

If you appreciate touchscreen technology, the FX Cruiser HO comes with an easily accessible 5” touchscreen display with a Connext button pad located just below the handlebars for even more display navigation options. With music, a GPS, full driving metrics, and security system features you are always in full control of your watercraft even when you aren’t riding.

When you’re ready to go for a ride, drivability options are all found within your reach on the handlebars. Cruise assist, no wake mode, TDE, and RiDE will make docking easier and get you wherever you wish to go comfortably.

What feels like the Cadillac of wave runners, the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO is a comfortable watercraft that offers everyone opportunities for unique customization and the perfect watercraft ride.

Let’s dive into why the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO is an all-around winner.

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.8

Things we like:

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    RiDE reverse/brake system
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    TDE mode for easy docking
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    Large accessible storage
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    Touchscreen Display with GPS
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    Very stable watercraft at 50+ mph
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    Tank stretches seemingly forever at 40-50 mph
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    Comfortable ride
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    Good boarding step at the rear
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    Passengers will experience a comfy ride too
Click to see more

Things we don't like:

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    Not supercharged
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    Not as nimble as smaller PWCs
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    Smaller display
Click to see more
Click to see more
Yamaha Fx Cruiser Ho Product Image

Where to buy:

Yamaha FX Cruiser HO

Specs & Features

  • Top Speed: 62.6 mph
  • Fuel Capacity: 18.5 gallon
  • Range: 77-100+ mph
  • Load Capacity: N/A
  • Storage Capacity: 44.5 gallon
  • Length: 140.9”
  • Width: 50”
  • Height: 48.4”
  • Dry Weight: 844 lbs
  • Seating Capacity: 1-3 persons

Yamaha FX Cruiser HO, A Luxury PWC at a Perfect Price Point

If you are new to jet skiing or if you are a veteran who has ridden multiple varieties, this Waverunner offers a complete water recreation experience. The HO model is the same as the more expensive SVHO, without the supercharge (180 hp vs 250 hp respectively). The SVHO will cost another 3-grand.

For riders who like to play behind the craft, the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO has the most convenient tow rope storage located just below the rear seat grab handle, which allows you to keep the rope hooked up and stowed at the same time. So if the water conditions look perfect for water skiing or tubing, you can quickly hop into the water and zoom around in no time.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-overview

The FX Cruiser HO also comes equipped with one of the widest and deepest fold-down steps we’ve seen on a factory Waverunner, giving everyone an easy way to get back on the jet ski.

A Recdeck module will run about $1200, but provides a larger platform for swimming and fishing. As one of the most stable PWCs on the market, this added versatility will be worth it for some.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-recdeck

Another great feature the FX Cruiser HO has is its adjustable handlebars. With a conveniently located latch labeled TILT, you can quickly make the handlebars stand more upright for taller riders or make it easier to stand while riding.

To easily read your water crafts’ trip hours, gas usage, and speed, the 5” Connext touchscreen display provides the most detailed read-outs. You can easily switch between screens to change the music, check the adjustable trim, or find your way back to shore with the integrated GPS.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-handlebars

From cruising the lake to towing tubers, the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO is a great option for anyone trying to find some fun on the water. It is a storage-packed adventure craft that can also offer a thrill for those with a need for speed. And with seating for up to three people, there is plenty of room for the whole crew to dive into the fun.

High Output Performance

The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO comes standard with a 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, 1.8 Liter High Output Yamaha Marine Engine that can breach the 60 mph mark. That’s plenty, but for more experienced riders, the SVHO will add another 15+ mph.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-engine

Drivability behind the handlebars is comparable to driving a BMW or Cadillac on land. With most controls within a finger’s reach, you are always in complete control of this PWC. Unlike a GP1800r or the Sea Doo RXP-X, the FX Cruiser HO eases into turns. That also means it won’t carve as nimbly those racing boats.

Yamaha’s RiDE reverse/ brake system is conveniently located on the left handle, a nice and useful tool for safer maneuvering.

The FX Cruiser HO also comes with TDE (Thrust Directional Enhancer) for slow-motion maneuverability to effortlessly move in and out of tight docking situations with no need to pull the throttle.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-drivability

Also, this watercraft has a Cruise Assist, so you can set your desired speed, pull the throttle wide open, and sit back while you cruise to your destination or just around the lake. For areas where no wake is enforced, the FX Cruiser HO offers a No Wake Mode at the touch of a button so you can easily make your way through without needing to think about your speed.

We can’t forget about this watercraft’s adjustable trim settings that give you multiple driving options. Three different modes, comfort, off, and performance allow you to customize your water recreation experience to whatever mood you find yourself in.

This PWC offers a wide range of driving experiences for everyone to enjoy, and with its 18.5-gallon fuel tank and fuel efficient motor, there’s great range. At 40 mph, it’ll cruise for several hours. Let loose at top speed and that obviously cuts down the range. But there’s a nice balance between performance and efficiency on this stable model.

Yamaha FX Cruiser HO’s 5” touchscreen display, cupholders, rearview mirrors, and multi-function driving controls on the handlebars.
Yamaha FX Cruiser HO’s 5” touchscreen display, cupholders, rearview mirrors, and multi-function driving controls on the handlebars.

Safety

Are you all about safety on the water? This PWC gives you peace of mind for many reasons.

The FX Cruiser HO has a great security system built into the display setting to prevent theft. It works with the remote control transmitter that is included with the jet ski.

To safely dock and depart, the FX Cruiser HO will do most of the work for you with its TDE (Thrust Directional Enhancer) that, when turned on, sets the perfect speed for approaching the shore, dock, or trailer.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-safety

Yamaha’s RiDE brake/reverse system gives you even more control of your PWC. So you can safely navigate the water.

A more physical way the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO ensures a safe experience is by being a much more stable PWC. Weighing 844 lbs, you are able to stand on one side of the watercraft without the hull of the watercraft feeling like it will tip over.

The FX Cruiser HO’s large storage capacity also allows you to always have the essentials like extra lifejackets, marine flares, or if you’re like my Dad, a marine air horn to make sure everyone on the lake knows you’re there.

Unique Characteristics

Luxury Boating Experience

From the cup holders, touchscreen digital display, and boat-like stability, this Waverunner is built with everything in mind. You’ll also get an even more comfortable driving experience with the ability to adjust the handlebars to fit everyone’s style of driving.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-luxury

High Output Engine Performance

The 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, 1.8 Liter high output engine with RiDE equipped lets you experience high speeds with the added safety of stopping when needed. The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO also has a large fuel capacity, 18.5 gallons, so you don’t have to worry about keeping extra fuel on hand.

Endless Storage

You can pack a day’s worth of gear in the 44.5-gallon storage available on this jet ski. For additional safety, a waterproof canister is included for secure storage of any valuables you don’t want to see wet. As well as a spacious glove box that can safely house your smartphone with a USB and 12V power outlet to keep your devices charged.

Extras/Add-ons

The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO offers even more comfort and convenience with its array of add-ons available to make your watercraft even more luxurious.

An additional rear platform called the FX RecDeck gives ample space to walk and attach items like a cooler. And comes with a three-step ladder to easily reboard from the water.

In addition to the FX RecDeck, Yamaha offers packages like the FX JetFish Package that gives fishers the RecDeck, a cooler, two cup holders, and two-rod holders. The premium package provides a secure storage area for the cooler or any other items, called the FX Multi-Use Rack that can be purchased separately.

Yamaha’s FX RecDeck package add-ons.
Yamaha’s FX RecDeck package add-ons.

Yamaha also has an FX RecDeck Lounge and Beach Package that includes a lounge chair with 2 attached saddlebags so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the water.

For families and friends who like to tube, Yamaha offers a RecDeck Towsports Package that includes a tube, 12V air pump, tow rope, and bungee hold-down to stow for trailering after a day of jumping the wake.

A variety of storage extras are available for purchase as well, like a glove box organizer, under hatch storage bag, and attachable stern storage bag.

yamaha-fx-cruiser-ho-chair

How Does The Yamaha FX Cruiser Compare?

When comparing the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO against other similar PWC like the Sea-Doo GTX 230, the FX Cruiser HO offers almost double the amount of storage and footwell drains to keep water out.

The GTX may provide a more “sporty” driving experience, being supercharged and 230 HP, next to the Cruiser HO engine’s 180 HP.

The Sea-Doo also lacks a GPS navigation system and has a smaller seating area compared to the FX Cruiser HO’s stadium-style scalloped seats.

Is It Worth It?

Ringing up at a starting price of $16.699, with its comfort, and convenient amenities, the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO lives up to the price sticker. It holds the third most storage across all jet skis and has added security and GPS already integrated into the display. And it offers a superiorly stable riding experience that everyone can feel safe driving. The Yamaha FX Cruiser HO is a truly customizable PWC that can satisfy everyone’s way of recreating in the water.

Related Reviews

Our Overall Review

We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:

4.8

Things we like:

  • check-mark
    RiDE reverse/brake system
  • check-mark
    TDE mode for easy docking
  • check-mark
    Large accessible storage
  • check-mark
    Touchscreen Display with GPS
  • check-mark
    Very stable watercraft at 50+ mph
  • check-mark
    Tank stretches seemingly forever at 40-50 mph
  • check-mark
    Comfortable ride
  • check-mark
    Good boarding step at the rear
  • check-mark
    Passengers will experience a comfy ride too
Click to see more

Things we don't like:

  • check-mark
    Not supercharged
  • check-mark
    Not as nimble as smaller PWCs
  • check-mark
    Smaller display
Click to see more
Click to see more
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

How much HP does the Yamaha FX Cruiser have?

The FX Cruiser HO–which stands for High Output–has an impressive 180 HP. The FX Cruiser SVHO–which stands for Super Vortex High Output–has 250 HP.

Does the FX Cruiser HO have rearview mirrors?

Yes, the Waverunner has one rearview mirror on each side that is positioned on either side of the display.

Does the Yamaha FX Cruiser HO have a brake?

Yes, it comes equipped with Yamaha’s RiDE brake and reverse system.

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