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Should You Choose a Ski Boat or a Wake Boat?

Jul. 27 2023 Buying Guide By Mattas Marine

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Ready to head out to the water, but don’t know if you should bring a ski boat or a wake boat? Both types of boats provide different experiences that may suit your needs more than the other. Mattas Marine in Grand Junction, CO, would like to help you make your decision. Read on to find out about the things to consider when deciding between a ski boat and a wake boat. Once you’re done, visit our dealership and our experts will help you with this tough decision. We also welcome those in Denver and Montrose, CO.

Ski Boats Overview

Ski boats are designed specifically for water skiing. They are typically smaller and have less passenger capacity than wake boats. Ski boats are designed to create a flat wake. If you’re not familiar with a wake, it is the disturbance created by a boat as it moves through the water. Boats with a deeper hull and more weight in the back create bigger waves. The flat wake created by ski boats allows the skier to maintain a consistent speed and trajectory.

Here are some ski boat features: 

  • A direct-drive engine, which provides rapid acceleration and a flat wake.
  • A small hull, which reduces drag and allows the boat to plane quickly.
  • A wide beam, which provides stability for the skier.
  • A comfortable seating area for passengers.
  • An area for peripheries, such as a tow rope and a ski pylon.

Wake Boats

Wake boats are designed for wakeboarding. They are larger, have more passenger capacity than ski boats, and they often cost more. Wake boats create a large wake which allows for tricks and jumps on a wakeboard. The extra cost of a wake boat may be worth it if you plan on bringing several people out in the water, or plan to do more wakeboarding than skiing.

Can You Use Either Boat for a Watersport?

Technically, you can use either a ski boat or a wake boat for either water skiing or wakeboarding. However, each type of boat was created to serve a different purpose and will generate a different experience for different watersports. 

Which One Should You Choose?

The best boat for you depends on the type of watersport you want to do. If you mostly want to water ski, then a ski boat is the best choice. In addition to the type of watersport you want to do, there are other factors to consider when choosing between a ski boat and a wake boat. These factors include the size of your group, the budget, and your personal preferences. Only you can decide what’s best for your needs, and there’s no wrong answer.