Yamaha’s 252SD sports classic bowrider appeal, an abundance of features and clever innovation, but the 2024 headlines are topped by the introduction of a new engine duo. Yamaha’s naturally aspirated 1.9-liter High Output powerplant offers the largest displacement yet seen in the jet-drive market. Combined, the pair produces 400 hp, pushes the 252SD to 30 mph in 7 seconds, and tops out near 48 mph. That the engines provide this power without the use of superchargers is notable, which will pay off on the showroom floor and at the gas pump. And the low-speed handling might steal the show. Yamaha’s Drive system adds paddle-style shifters on each side of the steering wheel to offer an alternative for shifting in and out of forward, neutral and reverse. It’s great in tight confines, keeping a driver’s hands on the wheel and attention on the water. Drive X, an exclusive addition to the 252SD, integrates directional control buttons into the steering-wheel hub. Similar to a joystick, Drive X allows drivers to crab the boat sideways, spin it within its own length, or even hold the boat against a dock when boarding passengers or gear.
Maximizing cockpit space is a Yamaha trademark. The 252SD boasts a 12-passenger capacity and offers several unique twists on the standard bowrider formula. The bow cockpit offers twin benches but adds filler cushions, and you can fashion a sun pad or third forward-facing seat ahead of the cockpit walk-through. Front cushions allow passengers to stretch out; when removed, sit facing forward with feet on the floor. Aft, convertible stern seatbacks slide forward or aft to enhance comfort or shift focus to the swim platform when coving.
Clever touches include storage behind the angled aft seatbacks, a flip-up galley table, storage, and a designated cooler spot just abaft the helm seat. The water-focused transom area also adds padded backrests for those sitting atop the swim platform, as well as removable swim-up seats that mount below the water’s surface. They make the swim platform a waterside bar top and provide access to remote sound-system controls.
High Points
- Connext 12.3-inch touchscreen offers intuitive control of boat systems.
- Spacious port console can be used as a head compartment, changing room or storage.
- Extensive standards list will keep costumers happy.
How We Tested
- Engines: Twin 1.9-liter Yamaha High Output marine engines
- Drive/Impeller: Jet drive/155 mm diameter pump with stainless-steel impeller
- Fuel Load: 48 gal. Crew Weight: 305 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $104,599 |
| LOA: | 24’6″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft (max): | 1’7″ |
| Dry Weight: | 4,689 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 12/2,600 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 75 gal. |
Yamaha Boats – Kennesaw, Georgia; yamahaboats.com
