Meet the Trio
In the refined world of luxury superyacht tenders, few names carry the same weight as Williams Jet Tenders. Known for precision engineering, jet propulsion expertise and luxurious attention to detail, the British brand has carved a unique niche in the global tender market. Whether you’re looking for a compact craft to fit a tight garage or a sporty adventure craft for on-the-water family fun, Williams offers a premium solution to suit.
In this roundup, we take a closer look at three of their popular models — the nimble MiniJet 280, the versatile TurboJet 285, and the powerful SportJet 345 – each designed to deliver performance, intelligent design and style for discerning yacht owners.
Williams Jet Tender’s MiniJet 280 – the perfect superyacht pocket rocket
MiniJet 280
A Mini Jet with Big Ambitions
With a heritage rooted in high-performance yacht tenders, the Williams MiniJet 280 distils the spirit of jet propulsion into one of the smallest and most agile craft in the brand’s portfolio.
Despite its compact 2.79m length, the MiniJet 280 is a masterclass in lightweight engineering and purposeful design. Weighing in at just 210kg dry, it’s specifically designed for yachts of 12 metres and above that may lack the space or lifting capacity to accommodate larger tenders. But don’t be fooled by its modest proportions — this little jet has a surprisingly bold character.
Compact Power and Precision
At the heart of the MiniJet 280 lies a 60hp BRP Rotax ACE 903 engine, delivering rapid acceleration and a top speed in excess of 36 knots. Thanks to its jet propulsion system, the tender offers ultra-shallow draught capability, making it ideal for beach landings and shallow-water exploration.
Unlike propeller-driven boats, the jet unit ensures ultimate manoeuvrability in tight spaces, enhanced by intuitive handling that’s perfect for both seasoned boat handlers and less experienced drivers. The result is a boat that feels connected, nimble and safe — all while being great fun to drive.
Form Meets Function
This MiniJet 280 might be small, but its layout maximises every inch. It seats up to three adults or two adults and two children, with cleverly integrated storage compartments that cater to the needs of day-tripping or quick ship-to-shore duties.
The clean helm layout, stylish upholstery and high-quality finish reflect Williams’ renowned build standards. Everything is neatly executed, from the ergonomic seating to the marine-grade materials that shrug off salt and sun with ease. With its purposeful lines and low profile, it also stows neatly in garages and tight lazarettes, further enhancing its appeal for owners of space-limited superyachts.
The Perfect Superyacht Pocket Rocket
The MiniJet 280 is all about freedom. It’s a versatile, stylish solution for owners looking to maximise enjoyment and utility without compromise. Whether you’re zipping guests ashore, exploring a quiet inlet, or simply enjoying the thrill of jet-driven agility, you’ll likely find the MiniJet 280 delivers an experience well beyond its size.
For those who believe less is more — and faster is better – this ‘pocket rocket’ ticks a commendable number of boxes.
Williams MiniJet 280 — Highlights
- Ultra-compact design for vessels 12m+ with limited garage space
- BRP Rotax ACE 900 (60hp) jet propulsion engine
- Top speed of 40mph
- Weighs just 210kg dry, ideal for davit or crane launch
- Seats up to 3 adults (or 2 adults + 2 children)
- Jet drive = no exposed propeller – safe for beach landings
- Minimal maintenance, fuel-efficient and easy to handle
Specifications
- LOA: 2.79m
- Beam: 1.54m
- Dry weight: 225kg
- Engine: BRP Rotax ACE 903 (60hp)
- Top Speed: 40mph
- Fuel capacity: 28 litres
- Jet type: Jet pump (no exposed propeller)
- Storage: Integrated under-seat compartments
- Construction: Lightweight GRP with Hypalon tubes
Williams Jet Tenders TurboJet 285 – a versatile all-rounder
TurboJet 285
A Compact Powerhouse
The Williams TurboJet 285 seamlessly blends compact design with exhilarating performance, making it an ideal luxury tender for yachts ranging from 12 to 16 metres. Its refined aesthetics and robust capabilities ensure that it stands out both in the marina and on open waters.
Precision Engineering Meets Dynamic Performance
At the heart of the TurboJet 285 lies the BRP Rotax ACE 903 engine, delivering a formidable 90hp. This power enables the tender to reach speeds of up to 46mph (74kph), ensuring swift transfers and thrilling rides. The jet propulsion system not only provides impressive acceleration but also offers enhanced manoeuvrability, allowing for precise handling in tight quarters, whether in the Mediterranean or Caribbean waters.
Designed for Comfort and Functionality
Despite its compact size, the TurboJet 285 doesn’t compromise on comfort. It comfortably seats up to three adults and one child, featuring ergonomically designed seating with rotating backrests and leg bolsters. The tender also boasts ample storage solutions, including under-seat compartments and bow lockers, ensuring that essentials are always within reach for a day of coastal exploration.
Customisation to Reflect Your Style
Understanding the unique preferences of superyacht owners, Williams offers extensive customisation options for the TurboJet 285. From a variety of tube colours and upholstery finishes to the option of emblazoning your yacht’s name on the seating, the tender can be tailored to mirror the elegance of its mothership, creating a seamless extension of your main vessel.
The Versatile All-Rounder
The TurboJet 285 is perfectly suited to owners of mid-sized luxury yachts/motoryachts seeking maximum versatility from their tender. Ideal for families who split their time between practical harbour runs and leisure cruising, it offers the performance to please enthusiastic drivers whilst remaining approachable for occasional boaters. Charter yacht operators particularly appreciate its combination of elegant styling and resilient construction, making it the ideal tender for discerning clients who expect both comfort and capability in equal measure.
Williams TurboJet 285 — Highlights
- Perfect fit for 12-16m vessels
- BRP Rotax ACE 903 (90hp) engine delivers thrilling acceleration
- Top speed of 46mph with smooth jet propulsion
- Seating for 3–4 people with practical onboard storage
- Refined finish and comfort for guest transfers or solo fun
- Compact footprint with a sporty ride
Specifications
- Length Overall (LOA):90m / 9ft 6in
- Beam:70m / 5ft 7in
- Dry Weight: Approximately 294kg
- Engine: BRP Rotax ACE 903 — 90hp
- Fuel Capacity: 40 litres
- Top Speed: Up to 46mph / 74kph
Williams SportJet 345 – the ultimate sports tender for family fun
SportJet 345
The Ultimate Sports Tender for Family Fun
The Williams SportJet 345 aims to combine high-performance engineering with luxurious comfort, making it an ideal tender for yachts measuring 16 metres and above. Its compact design neither compromises on power or on style, offering a fun experience on the water for the entire family.
High-Performance Jet Tender Precision
At the heart of the SportJet 345 lies the BRP Rotax ACE 903 engine, delivering a robust 90hp. This efficient powerhouse propels the tender to speeds of up to 46mph, ensuring swift and smooth transitions between your mother vessel and the shore. The jet propulsion system provides exceptional manoeuvrability too, allowing for precise handling even in tight spaces, surpassing the capabilities of traditional propeller-driven alternative tenders.
Design and Comfort
Measuring 3.45 metres in length with a beam of 1.77 metres, the SportJet 345 is designed to maximise space without sacrificing performance. It comfortably accommodates up to five passengers, featuring well-upholstered seating and a layout that promotes both relaxation and social interaction. The rotating backrest and flip-up footrest enhance comfort, while the large aft platform and removable ski pole add versatility for water sports enthusiasts exploring coastal destinations.
The Social Entertainer
The SportJet 345 is tailor-made for superyacht owners who view their tender as an extension of their entertainment space. Perfect for hosts who love arranging beach picnics, watersports days, or coastal explorations for their guests. It also especially suits multi-generational families, with its stability appealing to older passengers whilst its performance and watersports capabilities delight the more adventurous. For the sociable owner who values creating memorable experiences for friends and family beyond their mother vessel, or for families looking to get out on the water, the SportJet 345 delivers the perfect platform.
Williams SportJet 345 — Highlight Features
- Designed for 16m+ vessels needing a high-performance tender
- BRP Rotax ACE 903 (90hp) engine with 46mph top speed
- Seating for up to 5 people in a social, comfort-driven layout
- Automatic bow inflation system for easier garage fitment
- Ski pole and large swim platform — ideal for watersports
- Power limiter function for novice or guest users
- Customisable colours and finishes to match your vessel
Specifications
- Length Overall (LOA): 3.45m
- Beam: 1.77m
- Dry Weight: 362kg
- Engine: BRP Rotax ACE 903 — 90hp
- Fuel Capacity: 50 litres
- Seating Capacity: 5 persons
- Maximum Speed: 46mph
Why Choose Williams Jet Tenders?
When selecting a premium tender for your vessel, Williams offers unparalleled British craftsmanship combined with innovative jet propulsion technology. Their global service network ensures support wherever your yachting adventures take you, while the brand’s commitment to quality materials and manufacturing excellence provides peace of mind for captains and owners alike. Whether comparing to alternatives from Zodiac, Novurania, or Castoldi, Williams consistently delivers tip-top performance and refined aesthetics.
Summary of the trio of superyacht tenders
Whether you prioritise compact versatility, luxury finish, or great performance, the Williams MiniJet 280, TurboJet 285 and SportJet 345 each bring something unique to the table. These three models truly reflect the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality, innovation and user-centric design — setting the benchmark for modern luxury yacht tenders.
So, if you’re looking for that ideal tender that reflects the same standards as your mothership, or just looking for a compact craft for family fun on the water, explore the full Williams range today at www.williamsjettenders.com
Jet Tenders – Frequently Asked Questions
- How do jet tenders compare to propeller-driven tenders? Jet tenders offer enhanced safety with no exposed propeller, superior shallow-water capability, and typically better manoeuvrability in tight spaces – making them ideal for beach landings and close-quarter operations.
- What size yacht/motoryacht can accommodate a Williams tender? Williams designs tenders for yachts from 12 metres upward, with the MiniJet series suitable for smaller vessels, while the SportJet models complement larger superyachts of 16+ metres.
- Are Williams tenders difficult to maintain? Williams Jet Tenders feature lower maintenance requirements than propeller-driven alternatives, with simplified winterisation processes and worldwide dealer support for servicing needs.
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