When it comes to choosing a boat specifically for wakeboarding, and
hopefully entertaining on the side, it’s important to know the difference
between a boat made for wakeboarding and one that isn’t. Wakeboard boats are specially made for the
purpose of creating wakes. Then of
course, wakeboarders can perform their tricks on these wakes. Like ski boats, wakeboard boats have ballasts
but their ballasts generally have much more weight, thus making bigger wakes
when the boat is moving. The wedge on a
wakeboarding boat also helps shape the wake that the ballast makes.
Shopping for a wakeboarding boat, new or used, can prove to be stressful. Most have the same basic features such as
upholstered seating, carpeted floors and sides, a wakeboard tower, ballast,
wedge and steering mechanisms. Wakeboard
boats start to vary when it comes to engine types, fuel capacity, and
accessories. Some wakeboard boats come
equipped with a special button that lets you adjust the shape of the wake you
desire with one push. Some boats have
bigger ballasts that can create bigger wakes for more experienced riders. If you feel like going green, some boats have
exhaust systems that reduce the amount of carbon monoxide emitted into the air. For your personal comfort, some have seats
designed with lumbar support for those long days on the water. Special additions include diving platforms
and even mufflers to keep the noise to a low roar.
As earlier stated, accessories can make a huge difference between one wakeboard boat to the next. While most boats come with a stereo system, some come with tower cans that will protect your speakers from the elements as well as amplifiers and satellite antennas. The compartments and lockers onboard will vary with the size and price of a boat but one plus to buying a used boat is often time you’ll score used boards, ski hangles, ropes, life jackets etc…
Other wakeboard boats come not only with boat covers, but also with cockpit covers. While most wakeboard boats have heaters and a bar, others even have hot water showers. Some even have clamp down board racks, pop-up bow and stern cleats, and batteries with a battery switch. A few even come with a lounge remote control and halogen docking lights.
If you’re in fact looking to buy used, going online is a good place to start. Wakeboard boats can be found on online auctions or classified websites. If you buy used online, but through a manufacturer, you may even score free shipping. Approach shopping for your wakeboarding boat as if you would when shopping for a house. Go to various dealers and write down the ones you like. Then, do your own research on each model until you decide on the one that fits your needs and price range. Most importantly, get a boat that fits your individual style.
Recently, there are already hybrid versions of wakeboard boats. Such boats can cross from one water sport to another. For instance, they can also be used for fishing and saltwater cruising. They also have extras like digital speed and cruise control.
Posted by: Serious Wakeboard | May 13, 2008 at 11:58 PM