Abstract Background and study aims The adenoma detection rate (ADR) of conventional colonoscopy can still be improved. We conducted a prospective multicenter cohort study to assess the feasibility, safety, and diagnostic yield of the Extra Wide Angle View (EWAVE) colonoscope, which offers a 235° view obtained from a forward-viewing and two lateral backward-viewing lenses incorporated into one image. Patients and methods The study was performed between November 2015 and June 2016. EWAVE colonoscopy was performed in patients with an increased risk of colorectal cancer by experienced and EWAVE-trained endoscopists (≥ 500 colonoscopies, ≥ 10 with the EWAVE system). Results A total of 193 patients underwent EWAVE colonoscopy. The cecal intubation rate was 97.4 %. EWAVE colonoscopy had a polyp detection rate (PDR) of 61.1 % (118 /193), ADR of 39.9 % (77 /193), and advanced ADR of 13.5 % (26 /193). No adverse events occurred. Conclusions EWAVE colonoscopy is feasible and safe. The ADR appears comparable to those achieved with conventional colonoscopes in similar patient populations. To further elucidate the additional benefits of wide-angle-view colonoscopes, randomized trials would be required. Clinical trials registration number: NTR4536 (www.trialregister.nl)