Yamaha has announced that initial production of the much-awaited VXR WaveRunner has begun, and that full-scale production will begin next month so that boats will be available in time for the 2011 boat show season.

Demand for the craft, which uses the VX hull combined with a powerful 1.8-liter engine to produce a reasonably priced hot rod, is expected to be high among performance enthusiasts. Currently, it’s producing numbers comparable to boats costing upwards of $2,000 more. During my recent test of the craft I noted a near 68 mph top speed, strong low-end punch out of the hole, and aggressive handling. Thanks to the boat’s light weight and strong engine, it doesn’t have a need for a supercharger, lowering not only the price but also an owner’s subsequent fuel bill.

Along with the news, Yamaha has included a few choice snippets from the few lucky media types who have gotten the chance to ride the boat, including yours truly. I’ve included them below:

“One of the things the VXR likes to do is get up and go, 1.8 seconds to get from 0-30 mph – she earns the ‘performance watercraft’ moniker with ease.” – Chris Hughes, BoatTEST.com

“The big grin spread across my face just after I cleared the no-wake zone. That’s when I nailed the throttle on the new Yamaha VXR. Woo-hoo! This is one fun ride.” – Charles Plueddeman, Boats.com

“The boat feels incredibly light and playful, far more so than any craft in recent memory. You literally feel like you can punch the throttle and hop it off a wave, or throw it around like a much smaller craft…The bottom line is the VXR is just plain fun to ride.” – Jeff Hemmel, PersonalWaterCraft.com

“By far the fastest naturally aspirated 4-stroke ski I’ve ever been on. Handling was incredible. The ski is quick and nimble and snaps right out of a turn. I was testing this ski on a flat water lake, but would blast over boat wakes as fast as I could and the hookup of the ski was VERY good.” – Jerry Gaddis, Owner and Founder of GreenHulk.net Performance Forum

For a full schedule of 2011 boat shows, visit www.officialboatshows.com.