Affordable Wakeboarding: Choosing The Right Boat On A Budget

If you're looking for a good cheap wakeboard boat, you're in luck! While prices for these boats can be high, there are still some great options available for under $50,000. For example, the Axis A20 is a turnkey package that's ready to go straight out of the box, with a wave-making wedge, Surf Gate, and a ballast of 3,810 pounds. It can be purchased for $73,795. If you're looking for something even cheaper, the Yamaha AR190 is a small and simple boat perfect for starter boaters and captains, priced at $33,149.

Top picks for cheap wakeboard boats

Wakeboard boats can be expensive, but there are some great options for those on a budget. Here are some top picks for cheap wakeboard boats to get you started in your favourite watersport:

Axis A20

The Axis A20 is a compact yet powerful wakeboard boat. It comes with a wave-making wedge, Surf Gate, and a ballast of 3,810 pounds, ensuring you can make a radical wake. The boat is powered by a Malibu Monsoon M5Di 360 HP inboard engine and can accommodate up to 11 adults. With a MSRP of $73,795, it offers a lot of features for its price.

Chaparral 21 Surf

The Chaparral 21 Surf is an excellent option for those looking for a spacious and feature-rich wakeboard boat. At $54,616, it offers 21 feet of length and a 12-passenger capacity. It includes a Medallion Viper II touchscreen display that allows you to create and store your perfect wake-making mode. The boat also features a Malibu Surf Gate and a Volvo-Penta Forward Drive for enhanced performance.

Gekko Revo 6.7

Gekko's Revo 6.7 is a versatile 22-foot wakeboard boat that offers a unique combination of performance and affordability. The hull is designed to handle well and throw a solid wake for a variety of watersports. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is described as having a low asking price.

Heyday WT-1

Heyday's WT-1 is designed to be cost-effective without compromising on performance. They've eliminated unnecessary equipment to keep costs down, and the hull is intelligently crafted to throw a massive wake for both surfing and wakeboarding. Again, the exact price is not mentioned, but it is described as being designed to be cost-effective.

MasterCraft NXT20

The MasterCraft NXT20 is a value-class surf and wake boat that won't break the bank. It offers competent wakes and waves at an affordable price. While the exact price is not mentioned, it is described as a budget boat.

So, there you have it! These top picks for cheap wakeboard boats will get you out on the water and enjoying your favourite watersports without breaking the bank.

Features of a good wakeboard boat

Wakeboarding boats are highly specialised and can be expensive, but there are still some great options available for under $100,000. Here are some of the key features to look out for when choosing a good wakeboard boat:

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the boat will impact its performance and handling. A larger boat may offer more space and stability, but a smaller boat can be more manoeuvrable and easier to store. For example, the Heyday WT-1SC is under 20 feet in length, making it easy to tow and store in a standard garage. On the other hand, the Four Winns HD5 Surf is a larger option, measuring 24'4" and offering seating for up to 12 people.

Passenger Capacity

Wakeboarding boats can vary significantly in their passenger capacity, so it's important to consider how many people you typically plan to have on board. Some boats can accommodate as few as seven passengers, while others can hold up to 16 or more. For instance, the Axis A20 may be small, but it can take up to 11 adults out on the water.

Engine and Power

A powerful engine is crucial for a wakeboarding boat to ensure it can reach the speeds needed for wakeboarding and create a good wake. Engine options can include inboard or jet engines, with horsepower ranging from around 350 to over 600. The Malibu Response TXi, for example, offers a choice of 360 or 430 horsepower direct-drive inboard engines.

Ballast System

A ballast system allows you to add weight to the boat, which helps to displace water and create bigger and better wakes for wakeboarding. Ballast systems can range from around 1,800 pounds to over 5,000 pounds. The Moomba Mondo, for instance, can hold an impressive 3,700 pounds of ballast.

Surf Gate or Tabs

A surf gate or surf tabs allow you to adjust the wake to create the perfect conditions for wakeboarding. These features can be controlled manually or via a touchscreen display, depending on the boat model. The Chaparral 21 Surf, for example, uses Malibu Surf Gate technology, which can be instantly adjusted via a Medallion touchscreen display.

Tower and Tow Points

A tower provides an elevated tow point for the wakeboard rope, allowing for higher and more exciting jumps. Some towers are manual folding, while others may be stationary. Additionally, some boats offer a transom tow ring as an alternative tow point.

Additional Features

Other features to consider include seating arrangements, storage options, fuel capacity, speed control systems, and entertainment systems. Some boats may also offer customisation options for the interior, exterior, and graphics.

Price range for a cheap wakeboard boat

The price range for a cheap wakeboard boat can vary depending on various factors, including the features, size, brand, and current market trends. While "cheap" is a relative term, we can consider options that are more affordable or budget-friendly within the range of wakeboard boats. Here is an overview of the price range for a cheap wakeboard boat:

Affordable Wakeboard Boats:

• Axis A20: MSRP of $73,795, offering a turnkey package with a wave-making wedge, Surf Gate, and a 3,810-pound ballast.
• Chaparral 21 Surf: Listed price of $54,616, featuring 21 feet of length, a 12-passenger capacity, and tech enhancements like a Medallion Viper II touchscreen display.
• Gekko Revo 6.7: Price not specified, but noted for its versatile 22-foot design and unique features, including a hull that performs well for various water sports.
• Heyday WT-1: Price not specified, designed to be cost-effective by eliminating unnecessary equipment, with a hull optimized for wakeboarding and surfing.
• MasterCraft NXT20: Price not specified, a value-class option with a compact size, luxury-class styling, and capable of generating good wakes and waves.
• Moomba Mojo: Price not specified, ideal for larger groups seeking a better wakeboarding experience without a high price tag, with a finished interior.
• Moomba Mondo: MSRP of $68,700, capable of holding 3,700 pounds of ballast, and featuring a user-friendly walkthrough transom design.
• Malibu Wakesetter 21 VLX: Priced just over $87,000, offering a premium-level experience with exclusive innovations like Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, and a touchscreen operating system.
• Yamaha 212XE: Starting price of $64,894, a jet boat with twin engines and a 1,100-pound ballast system, featuring a folding aluminum tow tower.

Factors Affecting Price:

It's important to note that the price of wakeboard boats can fluctuate and that the market has changed over time. Features, size, brand reputation, and customization options all contribute to the final cost. Additionally, used boats can be a more affordable option, providing access to older models with desirable features at a lower price point.

Wakeboard boat brands to consider

There are a variety of wakeboard boat brands to consider, depending on your budget and needs. Here are some popular options:

Axis

The Axis A20 is a great option for those seeking a surf-friendly boat without compromising on features, performance, and value. With a MSRP of $73,795, it offers a wave-making wedge, Surf Gate, and a ballast of 3,810 pounds. Despite its compact size, the A20 can accommodate up to 11 adults.

The Axis A22 is another popular choice, known for its ability to create pro-level wakeboard wakes with minimal setup. For 2019, it was updated with new colours, luxurious materials, and graphics, while still retaining the features riders want, such as the Surf Gate, Suf Band, and Power Wedge III. With a maximum ballast of 4,500 pounds, it offers a lot of bang for your buck at $66,500.

Chaparral

If you're looking for a dedicated watersports boat at a reasonable price, the Chaparral 21 Surf is an excellent choice. With a list price of $54,616, it offers 21 feet of length, a 12-passenger capacity, and all the features of Chaparral's SSi line. It includes a Medallion Viper II touchscreen display, a Malibu Surf Gate, and a Volvo-Penta Forward Drive for superior trimming and handling.

Four Winns

For those seeking a larger option, the Four Winns HD5 Surf is a great choice. With a starting price of $93,837, this 24'4" boat can seat up to 12 people and offers amenities like an enclosed head compartment, a convertible sun lounge, and an onboard 12-gallon freshwater system. It utilizes a Volvo-Penta Forward Drive, wake enhancement tabs, a ballast system, and touchscreen helm control for an enhanced wave-making experience.

Heyday

Heyday specializes in creating affordable boats for wake sports. Their WT-2DC model, measuring 22'6", is ideal for towed watersports like wakeboarding and wakesurfing. It features a folding tow tower, a transom tow ring, and a tri-hull-style hull that boosts its wave-making abilities. With 1,800 pounds of onboard ballast and an angled transom, you can expect an impressive wave-riding experience. The WT-2DC has a MSRP of $53,731.

Malibu

Malibu is a well-known brand in the world of wake boats, offering top-tier models with exclusive innovations. The Malibu Wakesetter 21 VLX, priced just over $87,000, provides an affordable entry point into their premium-level offerings. It includes features like the Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, and the mOS operating system with a touchscreen for digital control of wake presets and ballast control. The "Wake Plus/Diamond" hull design allows for a seamless transition between wake sports and traditional water skiing.

MasterCraft

MasterCraft is a premium wake boat brand, offering models like the NXT22 and the XT20. The NXT22, priced at an estimated MSRP of $70,860, adds length to their previous NXT models without sacrificing affordability. It comes with 2,140 pounds of water ballast, a manual folding tower, and a surf system with surf tabs and a wake tuning plate. The XT20, priced just under $100,000, features the GEN2 Surf System with touchscreen control and preset surf profiles. It also includes unique features like a ZFT Tower with spinning board racks and a convertible centre cockpit seat.

Moomba

Moomba is a well-known name in the world of affordable tow boats. The Moomba Helix, priced at $60,180, offers a sliding rear seat, a dual-access glove box, the Moomba A3 tower, and a Bluetooth-compatible stereo system. For wakes, it packs a punch with a 400 horsepower Indmar Raptor engine, the Flow 2.0 surf system, surf tabs, a centre wake plate, and a 4,000-pound ballast system.

The Moomba Mondo, priced at $68,700, is another impressive offering from Moomba. It can hold an impressive 3,700 pounds of ballast to create massive wakes. It also features the AutoWake system, which uses multiple sensors to track pitch, roll, water displacement, and predicted wave amplitude, ensuring repeatable wakes that cater to specific rider preferences. The Moomba Mondo also boasts a sleek design with a split-pad walkthrough transom that provides easy access between the cockpit and swim platform.

Nautique

The Nautique G23 has long been one of the premier wake and surf boats on the market, offering a range of amenities and an exceptional wake experience. For those seeking a more affordable option, the Nautique 200, priced at $83,174, is a "multisport" boat that caters to water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing enthusiasts. It offers a spacious open floor plan with flanking seats in the bow, a helm seat, an aft-facing passenger seat, and removable transom seating. The Nautique 200 also features the HydroGate system, which fine-tunes the running surface to optimize performance for different watersports.

Tige

Tige has established itself as a leading brand in the wake boat market, with models like the R20 and the Z3. The Tige R20, priced at $82,430, offers a great balance of features and affordability. It includes Tige's proprietary Convex V hull design, the TAPS 3 Surf System, and the Alpha M2 tower. Additionally, it comes with the Tige Touch2 electronic display, allowing the driver to control various boat functions.

The Tige Z3 slightly exceeds the $100,000 mark but offers exceptional features and performance.

Where to buy a cheap wakeboard boat

If you're looking for a cheap wakeboard boat, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, it's important to note that the term "cheap" is relative when it comes to wakeboard boats, as prices can vary depending on the specific features and size of the boat. That being said, here are some places where you can find wakeboard boats that are considered affordable or cheap in comparison to others on the market:

Online Boat Marketplaces:

• Boats.com: This website offers a wide range of new and used wakeboard boats at different price points. They have a section specifically for affordable wakeboard boats, with options starting as low as $1,200.
• BoatGuide.com: This website also offers a list of affordable wakesurfing boats, with options that are priced to appeal to a wider range of buyers.

Manufacturer Websites:

• Axis Wake: The Axis A20 and A22 models are often mentioned as affordable options and can be found on the Axis Wake website. The A20, in particular, has a MSRP of $73,795, which is relatively lower than some other wake boats.
• Chaparral Boats: The Chaparral 21 Surf is another affordable option, with a list price of $54,616. It offers a good balance between price and features, making it a popular choice for those on a budget.
• Heyday: Specialising in affordable wake sports boats, Heyday offers the WT-2DC model, which is 22'6" long and has a MSRP of $53,731.
• Moomba Boats: The Moomba Helix and the Moomba Mondo are two models offered by Moomba that are known for providing good value for money. The Helix, in particular, has a base MSRP of $60,180, making it one of the more affordable options on the market.
• MasterCraft: While being a premium brand, MasterCraft offers the NXT20 and NXT22 models, which are designed to be more affordable without sacrificing performance. The NXT22 has an estimated base MSRP of $70,860.
• Yamaha Boats: For jet boat lovers, Yamaha offers the Yamaha 212XE, which starts at $64,894 and is the only jet boat on our list.

Boat Dealers and Showrooms:

In addition to online marketplaces and manufacturer websites, you can also find cheap wakeboard boats by visiting local boat dealers and showrooms in your area. They often have a range of new and used boats available, and you may be able to find a good deal or negotiate a lower price.

Remember, when shopping for a cheap wakeboard boat, it's important to consider your budget, the specific features you need, and the size of the boat that will suit your requirements.

Frequently asked questions