Center-consoles prove favorites of fishing enthusiasts in part because they offer easy access to nearly all of a boat’s perimeter. Of course, the transoms of these boats are typically interrupted by outboard motors. Yamaha’s 255 FSH Sport H, part of a seven-boat-deep center-console lineup from Yamaha, proves that jet-drive power is not only a viable alternative, but also an attractive one. The low profile of both the engine and driveline, as well as the lack of an exposed prop or drive, leaves the transom wide-open and accessible, a benefit when fishing and for family time when coving or on the hook. The lack of a prop and a jet’s shallow draft also promise access to skinny waters while reducing the crew’s safety concerns.
Fishing and fun are themes spread throughout the 255 FSH Sport H. Stow aft seat cushions, and the transom area converts into a casting deck, with a 30-gallon baitwell to starboard, an abundance of rod holders within reach, and easy access right onto the swim platform. The latter is a great spot to hang out when not underway and includes padded seatbacks, plenty of cup holders and an audio-system remote. Port and starboard bow seating flanks a dinette table that transforms into a sun bed or, with cushions removed, reveals yet another large casting deck. An 18-gallon baitwell is to port, this one featuring an aquariumlike window. Storage includes an array of tackle boxes and a drawer for tools. An insulated fish box is ready for the day’s catch.
In terms of power, Yamaha’s twin supercharged Super Vortex High Output engines power the 255 FSH Sport H onto plane in a quick 3.1 seconds, passing 30 mph in just 3 seconds more en route to a 54 mph top speed. Equally exciting but decidedly more practical is Yamaha’s introduction of Helm Master EX. It brings true joystick control to the jet market, reducing low-speed, tight-quarters maneuvering to video-game simplicity. Captains can also move the boat forward or back laterally, or spin it within its own length. It works to near perfection and is a true game-changer in jet-drive propulsion.
High Points
- Helm features Yamaha’s 7-inch Connext touchscreen and Simrad GO12 GPS/fish finder.
- Fish-friendly standard amenities abound on board.
- Pump clean-out ports are easily accessed atop the transom step.
How We Tested
- Engines: Twin supercharged Yamaha Super Vortex High Output marine engines
- Drive/Impeller: Jet drive/160 mm high-pressure pumps with stainless-steel impellers
- Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 305 lb.
Pricing and Specs
| Price: | $107,799 |
| LOA: | 24’6″ |
| Beam: | 8’6″ |
| Draft (max): | 1’10” |
| Dry Weight: | 4,835 lb. |
| Seat/Weight Capacity: | 12/2,700 lb. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 111 gal. |
Yamaha Boats – Kennesaw, Georgia; yamahaboats.com
