2019 Yamaha AR240

Slide into the captain’s chair on this AR240 and you’ll notice how everything is laid out to keep the day easy: clear sightlines over the bow, intuitive controls, and jet throttles right where your hand wants them. The twin jets make low-speed docking far less stressful than you’d expect from a 24-footer, and once you’re off the trailer, the hull feels planted yet playful in chop. The transom lounge becomes the social hub at anchor, with aft-facing seats right at water level for swimmers and wakeboarders. Deep in-floor storage swallows boards and inflatables, keeping the cockpit uncluttered, while the wide bow rides high and dry even with a full crew stretched out up front.

In this region, where weekend plans bounce between sandbars, quiet coves, and open stretches of water, the AR240’s shallow-running jet drive really shines. You can nose in closer to shore and explore skinny backwaters without worrying about a vulnerable outdrive. Afternoon chop is common here, and the AR240’s length and beam combine to give a confident ride while still being easy to tow and launch at busy ramps. With room for a big crew, loads of storage for gear, and watersports-friendly power, it’s ideal for long, mixed-activity days on the local lakes and coastal waterways.