When looking for personal watercraft, chances are you came across the Sea-Doo Spark series and Yamaha.
As fierce competitors, each brand has different things to offer.
This makes them each suitable for all levels and activities.
There are several components and features of these two brands that can be compared.
Finding the perfect jet ski for your next seaside vacation may just be easier after reading this article as it will discuss the Sea-Doo Spark vs Yamaha.
About the Sea-Doo Spark Series
The Sea-Doo Spark has three options available.
These are the Sea-Doo spark 2 Up, the Sea-Doo Spark 3 Up, and the Sea-Doo Spark Trixx.
There is also the Sea-Doo GTI.
The Spark 2 Up is the standard jet ski of the three, with the Spark 3 Up being a level up coming with a convenience package.
The Spark Trixx, on the other hand, is exclusively designed to do tricks on the water.
All three of the jet skis in this series are rec lite watercraft, which means they are lightweight with less power and a lower price point.
They also have a maximum front storage space of 7.4 gallons.
The Spark range has better fuel economy as they have Rotax 900 engines.
The 2 Up has 60 horsepower, and the 3 Up has 90 horsepower, as well as a closed-loop cooling system to cool the engine down.
Each is a small watercraft suitable for both beginners and advanced riders.
Extra features for the 3 Up include an portable audio system allowing you to play your favorite playlist while riding.
About the Yamaha
There are many models within the Yamaha jet ski range.
Yamaha features models like the Yamaha EX, EX Sport, EX Deluxe, and the EX Limited, which make up the EX series.
The brand’s range also includes the Yamaha VX-C, VX Deluxe, VX Cruiser HO, and quite a few more.
These jet skis are made for different levels and activities, so Yamaha is definitely one of the more versatile brands.
The Yamaha series is made up of 5 categories:
- Rec lite category – Yamaha EX series
- Recreation category – Yamaha VX series
- Luxury category – Yamaha FX series
- Performance category – Yamaha GP series
- Freestyle category – Yamaha Superjet and Jet Blaster
There are 4 engine options to consider when looking at this brand.
A 3-cylinder engine that has a 4-stroke TR -1 High Output Marine, a 3-cylinder that has a 4-stroke TR-1 Marine, a 4-cylinder that has a 4-stroke 1. liter output marine, and a supercharged 4-cylinder engine that has a super vortex high output marine.
Price comparison
After looking at the specs of each brand, the price comparison between the two is the next thing to look at.
The Sea-Doo Spark series is known to be the less expensive option out of the two.
With the cheapest Sea-Doo being priced at $5,399 and the cheapest Yamaha being priced at $7,000 as of 2022.
These price points do not define whether the one is better than the other but more about how differently they have been made and what they were made for.
In this case, the more expensive Yamaha has more power, more storage a larger fuel tank which means it has a higher fuel capacity and even has extra accessories like mirrors.
Reliability comparison
The Yamaha and Sea-Doo comparison is nothing without comparing how reliable the two are.
When it comes to the Yamaha, one must look at what they are made for and their performance.
This personal watercraft is mainly speed and sport oriented. In contrast, the Sea-Doo is made mainly for recreational purposes.
Sparks have a closed-loop cooling system and were the first to invent the brake and reverse (IRB) safety system, whereas Yamaha has an open-loop cooling system and brake and reverse features (RIDE), which are seen on most high-class jet skis in this brand.
This makes each of these brands reliable in their respect and cannot be labeled as one being more reliable than the other.
Stand Up vs Sit down
The Superjet in the Yamaha range is a stand-up jet ski, and it is mainly used and predominantly designed for professionals as well as for those who love adrenaline.
It is harder to use than a sit-down jet ski.
Sea-Doo has mostly sit-down jet skis as they are mainly used for recreational activities.
Although Yamaha does have these types of jet skis, it completely comes down to what you are using it for and whether a stand-up or sit-down jet ski is best suited for you.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is always going to be important when having a personal watercraft.
This will ensure that your craft is functioning properly and will last longer.
It is also best to check what the warranty agreement is o your watercraft to determine whether you will be sufficiently covered for any manufacturing faults.
Understanding what needs to be done in terms of maintenance for your watercraft is vital.
This is what you should do:
- Change oil regularly and always make sure that you are using fresh oil as stale fuel can cause damage and malfunctions.
- Replace the battery around every 3 to 5 years. If the horsepower is high, you should be changing it more frequently.
- Spark plugs need to be changed at least once a year.
- Flush out excess liquids that have accumulated over time. It is also best to empty and replace the fuel, motor oil, and oil filter.
- Winterize your jet ski for the cold seasons.
Final thoughts
Both Sea-Doo and Yamaha are top brands in the PWC market and are often compared to each other.
There is no definitive answer as to which is better as this will purely be based on what you prefer and what you will be using them for.
The Seadoo Spark is very much known as a recreational jet ski with low speeds, and compared to the Yamaha; it is still a good choice.
Personal watercraft can be used for a variety of activities, and if you’re after versatility, then Yamaha is most likely the brand for you.
