The market for compact jet boats is growing quickly as boaters seek out vessels that balance power, agility, and versatility. Two models stand out in this segment: the KYMA K7, a premium jet boat designed with advanced engineering for multi-environment performance, and the Scarab 165 ID, one of the most recognized compact jet boats on the market.

Both boats promise speed, maneuverability, and fun-packed experiences on the water, but how do they compare when it comes to real-world usability? Let’s take a deep dive into this head-to-head match-up between the KYMA K7 and the Scarab 165 ID.

Design and Build Quality

When choosing a jet boat, design and construction are among the first things to evaluate. The KYMA K7 delivers a modern, sleek appearance with an emphasis on function and durability. Built with reinforced materials and featuring marine-grade components, the K7 is designed not just to look sharp but to last through years of demanding use.

The Scarab 165 ID has long been praised for its sporty design. Its compact size makes it easy to tow and store, and the bold exterior gives it a youthful, energetic vibe. While appealing, its smaller frame can feel limiting for boaters who want more space for passengers or gear.

Verdict: The Scarab looks fun and flashy, but the KYMA K7’s combination of cutting-edge styling and rugged build quality gives it a longer-term advantage for serious boaters.

Size, Comfort, and Passenger Space

The KYMA K7 is built with versatility in mind, comfortably accommodating family outings, watersports, or casual cruises. Its interior is designed for ergonomic seating and provides ample storage space for gear. Despite being a compact jet boat, it doesn’t feel cramped, making it a comfortable option for extended days on the water.

The Scarab 165 ID is one of the smallest jet boats in its class. At just over 16 feet, it’s nimble and easy to handle, but the tradeoff is space. It seats up to five passengers, though many boaters report that the ride feels crowded when the boat is fully loaded. Storage space is minimal, which can limit flexibility for all-day trips.

Verdict: If maximum compactness is the goal, Scarab wins. But for those who want more comfort and space without sacrificing agility, the KYMA K7 pulls ahead.

Engine Performance and Speed

Performance is where the comparison really heats up. The KYMA K7 is powered by a jet propulsion system that balances raw power with smooth handling. Its engine setup is designed to deliver reliable thrust across varying conditions—whether in shallow waters, coastal environments, or vegetation-filled waterways. The American Turbine propulsion system and stainless-steel impeller allow the KYMA K7 to perform consistently even under demanding circumstances.

The Scarab 165 ID is powered by a Rotax engine, a well-known name in jet propulsion. It offers spirited acceleration and a lively top speed for its size. While undeniably fun, it’s primarily tuned for recreational performance in calm water environments. In rougher conditions or in shallow and weedy waters, its exposed propulsor elements can be more vulnerable to issues.

Verdict: Both boats deliver excitement, but the KYMA K7 provides a broader range of reliable performance across multiple environments.

Shallow Water Capabilities

One of the biggest advantages of jet propulsion is shallow water access—but not all boats are engineered equally.

• KYMA K7 features a draft of only 15.5 inches, making it ideal for exploring sandbars, rivers, and shallow coastal inlets. The jet propulsion system eliminates exposed props and rudders, meaning less risk of damage when navigating tight or shallow areas.
• Scarab 165 ID also benefits from jet propulsion, but with a draft closer to two feet, it requires more caution in extremely shallow areas. Its design isn’t quite as optimized for frequent shallow-water operation.

Verdict: KYMA K7 clearly outperforms the Scarab here, offering more freedom to explore shallow environments.

Saltwater Use and Corrosion Resistance

Many boaters dream of cruising in coastal waters, but saltwater boating requires specialized engineering to prevent corrosion and costly maintenance.

• KYMA K7 is built with 316 stainless steel hardware and tinned wiring, specifically engineered for long-term durability in saltwater. Its closed-cooling system ensures saltwater never circulates through the engine, drastically reducing corrosion risks.
• Scarab 165 ID does offer saltwater capability, but most models rely on open cooling systems. Saltwater flows through the engine, requiring regular flushing and additional maintenance. Exposed metal elements like props are also more vulnerable to rust.

Verdict: The KYMA K7 is purpose-built for saltwater, making it the smarter choice for coastal boaters.

Handling in Vegetation and Debris

Boaters who frequent lakes and rivers often deal with vegetation, weeds, and floating debris—challenges that can easily ruin a day on the water.

• KYMA K7 uses an American Turbine jet propulsion system with a solid stainless-steel impeller that can grind through vegetation without stalling. It also features a clean-out port for quick debris removal, keeping downtime to a minimum.
• Scarab 165 ID can get tangled more easily in weed-heavy environments. Without the robust impeller design of the K7, vegetation can impair performance and require time-consuming maintenance.

Verdict: The KYMA K7 is the stronger choice for boaters navigating vegetation-filled waterways.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is always a top consideration when investing in a boat.

The KYMA K7 places a strong emphasis on reliability, with its enclosed jet propulsion system eliminating exposed props. This makes it safer for swimmers, wakeboarders, and anyone near the stern of the boat. The corrosion-resistant build also contributes to long-term reliability.

The Scarab 165 ID also benefits from jet propulsion safety advantages but requires more frequent upkeep to remain at peak reliability. For casual users who stick to well-maintained waters, this might not be a problem. For adventurous boaters, however, it can become a limitation.

Verdict: Both boats are safe by design, but KYMA offers superior reliability across diverse conditions.

Versatility and Adventure Potential

The true measure of a boat isn’t just what it can do, but how far it can take you.

The KYMA K7 was designed to be versatile. From shallow rivers and saltwater bays to weed-heavy inland lakes, it adapts seamlessly. Its engineering encourages adventure, giving boaters the freedom to explore without constant concern about damage or maintenance.

The Scarab 165 ID is a fun recreational craft. It shines when used in controlled environments like lakes and calm waters. For thrill-seekers who want speed and excitement for short outings, it’s a great option. But for long-term versatility, its limitations become noticeable.

Verdict: For lifestyle boaters and explorers, KYMA K7 is the better companion.

Cost and Value

The Scarab 165 ID is generally marketed as one of the most affordable jet boats, making it appealing for first-time buyers. Its lower initial cost and playful personality have made it a popular choice for weekend fun.

The KYMA K7, while priced higher, offers greater long-term value. Its durable build reduces maintenance costs, and its ability to thrive in varied environments means you’ll get more use out of it without restrictions. For serious boaters, this difference often outweighs the initial price gap.

Verdict: Scarab offers a lower entry point, but KYMA K7 delivers superior overall value.

Why the KYMA K7 Wins

When comparing these two compact jet boats, the Scarab 165 ID stands out as a fun, accessible option for beginners or those seeking casual thrills in calm waters. Its compact size and sporty look have given it strong appeal in the recreational boating market.

However, the KYMA K7 consistently outshines the Scarab 165 ID in areas that matter most to serious boaters:

• Shallow Water Access: With its 15.5-inch draft, KYMA can reach places Scarab simply can’t.
• Saltwater Durability: Advanced corrosion resistance and a closed-cooling system make KYMA built for coastal adventures.
• Vegetation Handling: The stainless-steel impeller and clean-out port keep KYMA reliable in weed-heavy waters.
• Versatility: From lakes to oceans, shallow bays to rivers, KYMA is designed to do it all.
• Long-Term Value: While Scarab is cheaper upfront, KYMA K7 saves boaters money and hassle in the long run.

Conclusion

In the compact jet boat face-off, the Scarab 165 ID remains a solid entry-level choice for recreational users who want something fun, affordable, and easy to trailer. It delivers thrills in the right setting, but it’s not built for boaters who want to go beyond the basics.

The KYMA K7, on the other hand, offers more than just excitement—it delivers freedom. With its shallow-water capability, saltwater-ready design, and robust handling of vegetation, the K7 unlocks waterways and adventures that the Scarab simply cannot. For boaters seeking a compact jet boat that combines innovation, reliability, and versatility, the KYMA K7 is the clear winner.

‍