Miami, FL — Yamaha WaterCraft today announced that the Yamaha CrossWave™ WaveRunner® has been named Boat of the Year, the most prestigious honor awarded annually by Boating® magazine. The award was presented today at the Miami International Boat Show® by Boating® magazine Editor in Chief Kevin Falvey.
Boat of the Year represents the highest distinction in recreational boating. Each year, Boating® magazine conducts extensive on water testing of nearly 100 boats across multiple categories before selecting a single model that stands above all others in design, performance, innovation, and real world usability.
The CrossWave earned top honors for redefining what a personal watercraft can be. Boating® magazine cited its ability to break free from traditional sit down or stand up conventions, blending Yamaha performance and maneuverability with genuine fishing and utility capability. Rather than focusing solely on speed or aggressive riding, the CrossWave expands versatility and practical use on the water.
This award validates exactly what we set out to do with the CrossWave,” said Martino Ruggiero, Yamaha WaveRunner product manager . “We created a platform that delivers ultimate versatility without sacrificing the fun, confidence, and ride character a Yamaha WaveRunner is known for. Being named Boat of the Year confirms the CrossWave truly created a whole new category.”
Measuring 12 feet 11 inches long and 5 feet 7 inches wide, the CrossWave features a centrally located command station and a full walkaround deck with uninterrupted padded decking for true 360-degree mobility.
Generous freeboard and deep footwells create a dry ride and confident movement throughout the CrossWave, allowing boarding from any direction.
Powered by Yamaha’s proven 1.9L HO marine engine, the CrossWave delivers strong acceleration, a top speed of approximately 55 mph, and a cruising range of more than 100 miles with reserve. With its shallow draft and no exposed running gear, the CrossWave is well suited for shallow water fishing, tight creeks, and rocky shorelines.
Standard features include dual 7-inch touchscreen displays combining Yamaha Connext® controls and a Simrad® NSX™ chartplotter and fish finder, integrated waterproof audio, 82 gallons of dedicated storage, and approximately 16 feet of integrated T Track for accessory mounting. The CrossWave is factory pre-wired for a Group 24 deep cycle battery, offers an optional integrated trolling motor bracket, and features an industry-first built-in main battery switch. Yamaha’s patented inboard jet pump cleanout system allows debris removal without entering the water.
The CrossWave is delivered in a single, fully equipped configuration that includes a custom trailer and removable 55-quart cooler, making it easy to tow, launch, and store.
By combining fishing capability, utility, and Yamaha engineering into one cohesive platform, the CrossWave establishes an entirely new category of personal watercraft. The Boat of the Year honor underscores Yamaha’s leadership in innovation and its commitment to expanding what is possible on the water.
The Yamaha CrossWave is available for order now at authorized Yamaha WaveRunner dealers nationwide with delivery expected in Spring 2026. For more information, visit yamahawaverunners.com or your local Yamaha WaveRunner dealer.
About Yamaha WaterCraft Group
Yamaha’s WaterCraft Group, based in Kennesaw, GA, is responsible for the sales, marketing, and distribution of Yamaha boats and WaveRunner watercraft in the U.S. Supporting more than 800 marine and powersports dealers nationwide, Yamaha is the industry leader in reliability, performance, technology, and customer service.
This document contains many of Yamaha's valuable trademarks. It may also include trademarks belonging to other companies. Any references to other companies or their products are for identification purposes only and are not intended to be an endorsement. Product and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Some specifications and measurements may be approximate and subject to different factors and variables. Ride responsibly, wearing protective apparel and USCG approved personal flotation device. Always ride within your capabilities, allowing time and distance for maneuvering, and respect others around you. Never drink and ride. WaveRunner® is a Yamaha brand personal watercraft and not a generic term. © 2026 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.