Sea Doo Challenger

[camesser]

I am considering the purchase of a 15' Sea Doo Challenger jet boat powered by a single engine 120 hp Rotax. Has anyone had any experiences with this type of a boat--both good or bad experiences.

 

[JAZZedBW]

Re: Sea Doo Challenger

Good thing that you brought it up, Camesser.<br /><br />My friends have an 18ft. Challenger with twin 110 Rotaxes. Nice boat, 2 engines feed off of 1 fuel tank which = them to suck gas more.<br /><br />Also it has a weedless-cleanout. I like the idea of it. But if its clogged really bad then it will not work to its 100% potential. <br /><br />Its a fun boat and VERY environment free. We had 7 people in and tubing. We brought it up to 70 mph! Nothing like tubing at 70mph to wake you up in the morning! haha<br /><br />Myself, My family had a 14 Boston Whaler Rage. Powered by 115 OMC. Its a good engine. But one engine also with 2, Especially Jet Drives, they Suck in reverse. They have no "kick" when it comes to reverse but I suppose all jet driven boats are like that. <br /><br />I was going to consider purchasing one. But my friends has a bit of a mechanical problem. The port tac doesn't operate propperly. Sometimes you have to "kick-back" the throttle and open it up again, then it will work. He has to get it looked at.<br /><br />To conclude, its a very nice sport looking boat. Good boat for water sports, and buzzing around. If anymore questions, Please let me know! Thank you<br /><br />JAZZ

 

[MrBill]

Re: Sea Doo Challenger

Personally I like the handling of the Jet you referenced. I have never owned one but often use and go along with a neighbor that has one. I suggest driving one, especially if you're buying new. You'll need to determine if the navigating characteristcs are suited to your needs and use.<br /><br />Steering is less than desirable at low speed, and as mentioned above, reverse is not much better due to the mechanics and attributes of the "jet" function itself (work just like aircraft reverse thrusters). I wouldn't recommend buying without driving.........