Boat Test: 2023 Yamaha 222XD

Overview

Yamaha’s 222XD brings jet propulsion and a wakesurf system together while providing access to wake sports for a friendly price. Sought-after jet benefits, including the unencumbered entry from the transom, wide-open cockpit and prop-free shallow draft, add to the 222XD’s attraction.

The 222XD is 12 inches longer than its predecessor. The extra length allowed Yamaha to redesign the cockpit, providing a layout with an impressive amount of room and comfort. Additionally, you can walk unobstructed from the bow all the way to the transom. And the low-profile engine design allows for a completely unencumbered transom walk-through that sits lower than that of competitors, creating superlative water access. 

Interior and Accessories

The signature rumble seats at the bow allow for a close connection to the water, especially perfect for younger passengers who like to ride in the front. You’ll find storage compartments under the majority of the seats throughout the boat, in addition to the newest wet-storage compartments in the seatbacks of the rear loungers. These self-draining compartments are perfect for life jackets and other wet items.

The 222XD comes with several features specific to the wake packages, including an all-new tower with integrated speakers and board racks. For 2023, models include a wireless phone charger at the helm. Captains will appreciate the new right-justified Simrad multifunction display. It gives better visibility for the driver, is easier to read in this location, and provides easy access to the intuitive Connext system for monitoring and controlling onboard systems, including the surf system. 

I tested this boat and surfed behind it. The wave is long and forgiving—perfect for beginners—but still with a lip as you ride up the top, so feel free to enjoy your foil or longboard as well. It’s fun for riders of all skill levels.

Yamaha’s 222XD proved agile with a comfortable ride. It’s great for wakesurfers seeking minimal maintenance, affordability, a wide-open layout, and the draft and dockside maneuverability of a jet.

How We Tested

• Engines: Twin 1.8L Yamaha HOs
• Drive/Prop: Water jet/160 mm stainless-steel impeller
• Gear Ratio: 1.00:1 Fuel Load: 60 gal Crew Weight: 450 lb.

High Points

• Better dockside maneuverability and shallower draft thanks to jet power.
• Minimal engine maintenance versus V-drive boats.
• Affordable price compared to traditional wake-sports boats. 

Low Points

• Connext system was not as intuitive as expected when setting up the surf wave as other surf systems. 
• Wave has a sweet spot but doesn’t provide quite as much push, which could make it difficult for beginners to let go of the surf rope.
• Limited ability to customize the wave; it’s either on or off.

Toughest Competitor

Heyday Wakeboats’ entry-level WT-2DC ($66,995 powered by a single 350 hp MerCruiser V-drive inboard) compares to the 222XD in that it is also an affordably priced wake-sports boat.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation