The New Yamaha CrossWave
Yamaha is breaking new ground in the PWC world with the unveiling of the CrossWave, a bold departure from traditional jet skis that blurs the line between performance, utility, and adventure.
Set to hit dealerships in Spring 2026, the CrossWave introduces a fresh category — one that’s tailor-made for today’s lifestyle-driven boater who wants fishing, cruising, and exploring all in one platform.
At nearly 13 feet long and 67 inches wide, the CrossWave is significantly larger than typical WaveRunners.
Its size gives it a stable, boat-like feel, allowing for a completely flat, marine-matted deck that runs uninterrupted from bow to stern.
This walkaround layout enables 360-degree mobility — a first for a personal watercraft — letting you move freely around the deck whether you’re fishing, anchoring, lounging, or docking.
One of the most exciting features is the CrossWave’s split seating design for up to four people.
The third and fourth seats are removable, giving you the option to open up the stern into a spacious deck — ideal for fishing gear, coolers, or simply stretching out.
This isn’t just a roomy deck — the CrossWave packs serious storage. With roughly 310 liters (about 82 gallons) of onboard storage, it has one of the largest capacities in the PWC category.
It includes a dedicated anchor locker, plus twin hull compartments in the stern, and even a built-in space for a 55-quart cooler.
To further boost versatility, Yamaha has included a T-track system integrated into the deck.
These tracks make it easy to mount fishing accessories, a trolling motor, shade systems — whatever your adventure demands. There’s even a first-ever clean-out port on the pump, so you can clear debris without getting wet.
And for staying anchored, the CrossWave comes with a dedicated anchor locker so you don’t have to compromise deck space.
Under the hood, the CrossWave is powered by Yamaha’s 1.9L High-Output four-cylinder marine engine, currently the largest displacement engine in the PWC market.
The powerplant delivers smooth acceleration and solid top-end performance. According to dealer specs, it generates around 180 hp, giving this large PWC enough punch for both long-distance cruising and spirited runs.
Yamaha has equipped the CrossWave with a wide, horizontal helm featuring dual 7-inch displays: one running Yamaha’s Connext system, the other a Simrad chartplotter for navigation and fishfinding.
The layout feels more like a small boat console than a typical PWC handlebars setup. For comfort and usability, there are 16-inch footwells, 3.5” gunwale steps for easy boarding, and non-skid surfaces all around.
CrossWave comes pre-wired for a Group 24 marine battery, meaning you can run trolling motors, lights, or other accessories without strain.
It also has built-in Bluetooth speakers in the footwells, with the potential to expand into a full audio setup — perfect for beach days, fishing trips, or long cruises.
With a fuel capacity of around 26.4 gallons, the CrossWave offers impressive range for extended trips.
Its design supports both solo missions and group adventures. Whether you’re heading out for a fishing session, a scenic run, or just hanging out at a sandbar, its onboard storage, deck space, and modular layout make it highly adaptable.
This launch marks a major step for Yamaha. Rather than just building a faster PWC, they’ve created a vessel that blends the utility of a small boat with the agility and thrill of a jet ski.
Riders who once faced a trade-off — between a sleek ski and a practical boat — now get the best of both worlds. As Yamaha celebrates 40 years in the jet-propulsion industry, the CrossWave embodies both its heritage and its forward-thinking innovation.
As the CrossWave becomes available in 2026, many are watching closely. Its launch could redefine what people expect from a PWC. For those who want more than a weekend ride — for anglers, family boaters, and adventurous cruisers alike — the CrossWave represents a genuine evolution in personal watercraft.
With its storage, stability, and multi-use deck, it might just be the most highly anticipated watercraft of the year.
Nautical Mile Magazine
