Sea-Doo
What's the Best Sea-Doo for a Family in 2026?
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published July 8, 2026
Quick Answer
What's the best Sea-Doo for a family in 2026?
The Sea-Doo GTX 170 is the most popular family choice: 3 comfortable seats, a 170 hp engine, plenty of safety features, and generous storage. Families who like towing (tubes, wakeboarding) will want the extra power of the RXT-X 325. To start out at a lower price, the GTI SE 130 is an excellent entry point.
Choosing the right family Sea-Doo means finding the sweet spot between safety, comfort, power, and budget. With BRP's 2026 lineup, there's no shortage of options — and the right model depends on your family's size, your favourite activities, and your experience on the water.
This guide covers the best Sea-Doo models for family use in Quebec, their key features, and the questions to ask yourself before deciding.
What to Look for in a Family Sea-Doo
- Seating capacity — Most Sea-Doos seat 2–3 people. For a family of 4 or 5, you'll need two watercraft, or consider a pontoon boat — which Groupe Contant also offers.
- Power and use case — For a relaxed ride, 90–130 hp is plenty. If you like towing tubes or wakeboarders, go with at least 170 hp.
- Safety features — Recent Sea-Doo models include BRP Audio, the automatic Detachable Engine Shut-off System (DESS), and ride modes that cap top speed for beginner riders — a real advantage if you want to let teenagers take the wheel safely.
Top 3 Sea-Doo Models for Families in 2026
- Sea-Doo GTX 170 – The all-rounder — 3 seats / 170 hp / Front and rear storage / LinQ accessory system. Estimated price: roughly $18,000–$20,000.
- Sea-Doo GTI SE 130 – The entry point — 3 seats / 130 hp / Excellent value / Great for beginners. Estimated price: roughly $13,000–$15,000.
- Sea-Doo RXT-X 325 – The performance pick — 3 seats / 325 hp / Built for towing / Ergonomic rear suspension. Estimated price: roughly $24,000–$27,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Sea-Doo GTX 170 is the most popular family choice: 3 comfortable seats, a 170 hp engine, plenty of safety features, and generous storage. Families who like towing (tubes, wakeboarding) will want the extra power of the RXT-X 325. To start out at a lower price, the GTI SE 130 is an excellent entry point.
Every watercraft operator needs a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), issued by Transport Canada. It's mandatory regardless of age or engine power.
16, with no exception. Unlike other motorized pleasure craft, where a minor can sometimes operate one under an adult's direct supervision, personal watercraft are held to a strict rule: no one under 16 may operate one, even accompanied by an adult — see our minimum age guide for the full breakdown.
Between $350 and $700 per year for a model like the GTX 170, depending on your insurer, experience, and region. Insurance isn't legally mandatory, but most marinas and clubs require it — see our Sea-Doo insurance guide for more detail.
Our advisors can walk you through the Sea-Doo lineup in-store. Groupe Contant doesn't currently offer demo rides for watercraft — our rental program remains focused on the Can-Am 3-wheel lineup (Spyder, Ryker, Canyon).
Yes, an approved trailer is needed to transport your Sea-Doo. Groupe Contant can advise you on trailers compatible with your model.
Groupe Contant — Your Quebec Dealer
Come try the 2026 Sea-Doo lineup at any Groupe Contant location. Our specialists will guide you to the right model for your family — and walk you through our financing options.