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  1. #1
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    What are good jet drive hulls for going out on a lake?

    I might be relocating to Austin TX area and nearby Lake Travis. I'm researching what are some good hulls for a safe and fun jet boat? I have 2 boys (who will be 10 and 12) who will be my boating buds. I'm wondering if it'd be better off with a boat design that has the engine behind a hatch or firewall instead of worrying about them getting injured by flying parts if something lets go? Also a hull that can handle some chop is probably better than my brother's old Sanger that couldn't handle 8 inch waves without slapping the crap out of us.

    My prior fast boat (in my single days) was a Whipple charged Donzi 22 Classic. So I know a little bit about high HP small boats. I'm looking for something a little safer but still get that big block sound and enjoyment. If I can go 60-70mph, that'll be great.

  2. #2
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    Hi bud. Your old donzi sounds fun! Having kids, there’s a lot to be said for an engine hatch and some freeboard. A larger cuddy like a Baja or similar in 23-25 ft might be perfect. They handle chop well and can run 60+. Lake Travis gets stupid waves when the wakeboard boats start their crap...which is every day and ten times as bad on weekends. Post pics!
    1990 Shadow bass boat w/ 2.4 200 Merc. Totally resto'd boat and love it!

  3. #3
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    Not a jet boat at all. A superboat or a velocity would work and provide the speeds you're looking for.

  4. #4
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    There are a few factors to consider when looking for a jet drive hull for going out on a lake. The first is the size of the boat. Some boats are too large for a jet drive, and will need to use a propeller. The second factor is the depth of the water. Jets work best in shallow water, so if the lake is too deep, a propeller may be a better option. The third factor is how fast you want to go.

    I'd recommend these:

    Vortex 2430 VRX
    Scarab 285 ID
    Yamaha SX190

  5. #5
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    why

    Quote Originally Posted by Volkman View Post
    There are a few factors to consider when looking for a jet drive hull for going out on a lake. The first is the size of the boat. Some boats are too large for a jet drive, and will need to use a propeller. The second factor is the depth of the water. Jets work best in shallow water, so if the lake is too deep, a propeller may be a better option. The third factor is how fast you want to go.

    I'd recommend these:

    Vortex 2430 VRX
    Scarab 285 ID
    Yamaha SX190
    Curious - why would the depth of the water effect the jet drive ? Please explain.

  6. #6
    Join Date
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    Those big seadoo jets seem to perform well and take the rougher waters not half bad. Frequent rebuilds on those things same as a jet ski really.

    If your looking old school glastron carlson jets are super cool. I believe sidewinder as well had 18’ jets. Liberator also has jet boats if you have more funds that might be the best way to go
    Hydrostream dreamin

  7. #7
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    Quote Originally Posted by berdes View Post
    Curious - why would the depth of the water effect the jet drive ? Please explain.
    The depth of the water can effect the jet drive because it can change how much air the jet drive can suck in. If the water is too deep, the jet drive might not be able to suck in enough air to create enough thrust to move the boat.

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