Does Kawasaki still make Jet Skis? Yes. Kawasaki continues to build a full line of JET SKI® personal watercraft, ranging from the stand-up SX-R 160 to three-passenger ST, STX and ULTRA models, a fishing-focused ULTRA 160LX-S Angler and the supercharged ULTRA 310 family.
One terminology point matters: JET SKI is Kawasaki’s brand. Yamaha calls its personal watercraft WaveRunner, while Sea-Doo is a BRP brand. People often use “jet ski” generically, but a Kawasaki Jet Ski is a specific product line.
[toc]
Current Kawasaki Jet Ski Lineup at a Glance
| Model family | Type | Best for | Current U.S. starting MSRP* |
|---|---|---|---|
| SX-R 160 | Stand-up | Experienced riders who want a stand-up PWC | $11,999 |
| ST 160 | 3-passenger | Accessible entry into Kawasaki sit-down PWC | $11,999 |
| STX 160 | 3-passenger | Recreation and general-purpose riding | $13,899 |
| ULTRA 160 | 3-passenger | Comfort, storage and touring-oriented use | $17,799 |
| ULTRA 160LX-S Angler | 3-passenger fishing | Fishing-focused PWC use | $18,899 |
| ULTRA 310 | 3-passenger supercharged | High performance and premium features | $19,199 |
Which Kawasaki Jet Ski Should You Choose?
SX-R 160 — Stand-Up Riding
The SX-R 160 is the specialist choice. Unlike a three-seat recreational watercraft, it is designed to be ridden standing up and demands more balance and rider input. It is better suited to riders deliberately looking for the stand-up experience than families wanting an easy cruising platform.
ST 160 and STX 160 — Recreational Sit-Down Models
These are the more straightforward three-passenger choices in the current Kawasaki range. They make more sense for general recreation, learning, towing where permitted and riders who do not need the size, equipment or price of the premium ULTRA platform.
ULTRA 160 — Comfort and Touring
The ULTRA 160 moves toward a larger touring-oriented platform with more emphasis on comfort, storage and longer days on the water. It is the logical step when the ride is about carrying people and gear rather than maximum supercharged performance.
ULTRA 160LX-S Angler — Fishing-Focused PWC
Kawasaki now offers a dedicated fishing-oriented member of the ULTRA family. That reflects a broader change in the PWC market: personal watercraft are increasingly used as compact fishing platforms, not only for high-speed recreation.
ULTRA 310 — Supercharged Performance
The ULTRA 310 family remains Kawasaki’s high-output flagship. The current 310LX uses a supercharged and intercooled 1,498 cc four-cylinder engine, seats three and includes electronic rider aids such as power modes, launch control and Kawasaki Smart Reverse with Deceleration (KSRD). Kawasaki lists the 2026 310LX at a base MSRP of $21,799 before destination and other charges.
How Much Does a Kawasaki Jet Ski Cost?
Current U.S. base pricing spans roughly from the low-$12,000 range for the SX-R 160 and ST 160 to above $20,000 for premium ULTRA 310 variants. The actual purchase price can be higher after destination charges, dealer fees, taxes, registration, trailer, accessories and safety equipment.
For comparison shopping, use the current manufacturer MSRP as a starting point, then request the out-the-door price. Old model-year articles are especially misleading in this category because Kawasaki’s lineup, equipment and pricing have changed substantially since 2019.
Kawasaki Jet Ski Horsepower and Speed
Not every Kawasaki PWC is designed around maximum speed. The ULTRA 310 is the performance flagship, while ST, STX and naturally aspirated ULTRA models emphasise different balances of cost, usability and comfort. Kawasaki does not present one single horsepower figure across the range, so avoid comparing model families as though they share the same engine tune.
Top speed also depends on model, load, water conditions and regulatory configuration. A claimed speed from an old review should not be treated as a current specification for every Jet Ski.
Kawasaki Jet Ski vs WaveRunner vs Sea-Doo
These names belong to different manufacturers:
- JET SKI® — Kawasaki
- WaveRunner® — Yamaha
- Sea-Doo® — BRP
Choose by the actual model, hull, seating, engine, storage, rider aids, dealer support and intended use rather than by using the brand names interchangeably.
Safety and Legal Use
Kawasaki classifies Jet Ski watercraft as inboard powerboats and reminds riders that federal, state and local boating rules apply. Wear an approved personal flotation device, take appropriate boating-safety training, never ride under the influence, and check local age/licensing requirements. For the wider category, see WU’s Water Sports guide.
Takeaway
Kawasaki still has one of the broadest dedicated personal-watercraft lineups. The right model depends on whether you want stand-up riding, affordable recreation, touring comfort, fishing capability or supercharged performance. Compare the current model family and out-the-door cost—not a 2019 price table.
