Yamaha’s new 242X E-Series is the company’s first foray into the high-performance wake sports category. Buyers in this segment of the market generally have three nonnegotiable requirements that the boat must meet – and these are – generating a perfect wake, drive control technology and of course, a premium sound system.
We took one of the latest Yamaha boats to Germiston Lake to see whether they have delivered a craft that meets these prerequisites.
The 242X is not a small boat, providing comfortable seating for 12 passengers, split between the spacious cabin area and the large bow seating area. There are an additional two seats in the stern that can be used when the boat is at rest.
Deck layout
Careful thought has gone into the deck and seating layout; one such evidence of this starts at the bow where the combined anchor locker and bow ladder compartments allow the anchor to be deployed without interference.
Conveniently placed cup holders and stainless steel grab rails add to the premium feel of the bow area. Hinges on the marine vinyl seats provide easy access to the large storage areas housed within them.
Moving along the walkthrough into the main cockpit, there is ample seating for six. Dual captain’s chairs plus a bench around the sides and rear, all upholstered in top quality marine vinyl, provide ample accommodation.
The port chair swivels through 180 degrees allowing easy observation of any watersport activity behind the boat. In front of the port chair is an entertainment console that features three separate storage areas.
A large head compartment is also provided on the port side between the bow and cockpit.