Wakeboard Boats

Buying a boat for wakeboarding can be an expensive concern, even if buying second-hand.  It is important to consider certain factors before making a purchase in order to avoid costly mistakes.

 

CREATING WAKE

 

A boat intended to be used specifically for wakeboarding differs from other speed boats, including water-skiing boats because it is designed to create large quantities of wake.  This is achieved by the fact that that the engine is placed in the back of the boat, which weighs the stern down and causes more wake.  These are called “V-Drive” engines and will help a boarder to learn more air tricks than when using a boat with an engine further towards the bow, due to the amount of wake that is created.  For riders that enjoy both water skiing and wake boarding, it is possible to purchase boats called “Crossover” boats that can create both soft wake for slalom water skiing and heavier wake for boarders.

 

You can also weigh the boat down further by a water ballast tank.  These ballast tanks can be filled with water or emptied to control the weight of the boat in the water.  Beginners may prefer slightly less wake to practice on than an experienced rider.

 

Another way of creating more wake from the boat is by the design of the hull.  The hull of the boat should be wide and deep in shape in order to create large wake and wash.  Furthermore, some boats will house a gadget called a “wedge”, a piece of metal behind the propeller, which improves the shape of the water causing the wake.

 

THE LOOK

 

The most important aspect to consider when buying the boat is to ensure that it will help you perform in the sport. However, if the boat is to be shared between many riders or the families of the riders, then it will be worth considering if the boat will be a comfortable and enjoyable place to be for a day’s activities on the water.  Size, seating and comfort can all be easily assessed to ensure the most appropriate boat is selected. 

 

USED BOATS

 

Buying a used boat is obviously a cheaper option but there may be more to consider.  There may be more chance of mechanical failure with an older boat so it would be advisable to check if a used-boat dealer carries out repairs and maintenance as well as sales.  Checking the service history of the boat is also very important to ascertain how well the boat has been cared for in the past.  The condition of the upholstery and interior can sometimes be a good indicator as to the likely condition of the mechanical parts of the boat.  Heavy soiling may indicate that the boat has had heavy use.  Soft spots in the floor that give gently under weight may suggest that the deck is rotting.  It is advisable therefore to look for a boat with fibreglass stringers.

 

WHERE TO LOOK

 

Boat shows are a good start to get to know what the latest style of boats look like and to get some ideas. Then try boat dealerships, classified local newspaper sections and boat websites including ebay..  It is well worth doing research about the different brands of boat in specialist magazines and on impartial water sport websites before visiting any seller.