Wakesurfing is not the only reason to consider the Scarab 255 ID, but it’s a good one. This do-it-all 25-foot family dayboat is always ready for tubing, lounging and cruising around the lake, but its jet propulsion, abundant power and available options can get the family surfing too.
The 255 ID Scarab provided for testing was equipped with the optional Wake Edition package ($9,980), which includes a wakeboard tower with board racks, a water ballast system to boost waves (holds 1,150 pounds), digital speed control and special graphics. Add the Surf Stream wake-enhancement devices ($1,105) and boarding platform extension ($1,305), and this boat is ready for just about any watersports activity you’d like to engage in.
Those not riding behind the boat will enjoy a spacious cockpit with several comfortable, high-quality seating choices. Bucket seats at the helm and console are backed by a pair of aft-facing seats and a bench seat aft. An extra seat-bottom cushion flips out of the middle seats to create a U-shaped conversation area. The backs of the aft seats pivot to face forward while underway or face aft for lounging at the sandbar. Add the Versa Lounge option ($1,245) and these seatbacks fold flat to create a sun pad with a center filler. Families will appreciate the convenience of the port console compartment; sink and head options are available.
The speed-control modes are not just for watersports. The Docking mode tempers throttle response and, combined with the Rotax lateral thrust reverse bucket, really enhances control around the dock. Eco mode reduces the acceleration rate and top speed to save fuel. The Ski mode programs the boat to accelerate to a predetermined speed and controls the acceleration rate, from very soft for tubing to unrestrained for a skier. Order the popular twin 300 hp engine option ($11,835) and performance is especially unrestrained—blitz to 30 mph in under 6 seconds and keep going to 57 mph. Whether ripping across the lake or crawling at wake speed, the versatile Scarab 255 ID is all about fun on the water.
High Points
- Outmaneuvers a sterndrive by pivoting within its own length, a neat trick in a tight marina.
- Jet-power advantages include minimal draft, no prop anxiety, no trim and self-draining.
- Bow boarding ladder is perfect for excursions to the beach.
How We Tested
- Engine: Twin Rotax Marine 300 ACE
- Drive/Prop: Jet drive/166 mm diameter 14/22-pitch 4-blade stainless-steel impeller
- Gear Ratio: 1.00:1 Fuel Load: 56 gal. Crew Weight: 380 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $109,000 (with twin Rotax 300 ACE, includes trailer) |
| LOA: | 25’0″ |
| Beam: | 8’4″ |
| Draft (max): | 1’3″ |
| Dry Weight: | 3,660 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 13/2,100 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 56 gal. |
Scarab Jet Boats – Cadillac, Michigan; scarabjetboats.com
