Looking at first boat/Nautique

[DaveP]

Looking to buy our first boat this year and I've narrowed down my search to gently used Malibu's (have some exp with) and Nautique's (no exp). The Nautique made the cut simply on reputation and stunning good looks. So the search began and I found a '09 Team SAN 210 that looks spectacular and has low hours (<200). Tandem trailer, tower speakers and appears to be in excellent condition. Issues include the fact that our lakes are frozen. Demo is out of the question but the boat is stored at dealer who has serviced the boat so a record does exist.

Obviously you guys are diehard Nautique guys so I don't expect to hear about other brands but what I would like to hear are any issues/problems/complaints this particular model might have. While I find the interiors on Malibu's a tad more luxurious (no offense), I do like the interior layout and features of the 210. Any info would be greatly appreciated. We are new to this and know absolutely nobody who owns one of these boats.

The last issue of course is price. How much should these be going for? I've searched boattrader and onlyinboards but there simply aren't that many for sale.

Appreciate anything you can send my way.

[shag]

The fact that there are not many for sale is a testament in itself. You will love the Nautique. NADA should be an accurate estimate. If you can travel, you can call Jeff at Nautiques of Orlando. They always seem to be able to find the gems. If anything, Jeff can tell you what you should pay.
I have bought several times form Jeff, and am happy.
Mike

[CAN'TSKI]

Be careful of being blinded by extra bling on boats. Most important to Nautique owners is the quality of materials and craftmanship. It is not hard to find a 15 yr old Nautique with interiors and gelcoats in incredible condition. Not so much with cheaper brands.

[Quinner]

One comment on the BU, buddy has one with the reverse arch tower, when coming around for your downed skier the rope tends to get tangled up in the boards/racks which is a big PITA and it really seamed to me the BU would shake/rattle & roll quite a bit while underway & the CC also has a much quieter exhaust note. One thing the BU had that CC does not is a very tight turning radius at slow speeds, almost as if their rudder travels further, of course this is of no benefit if the boat has the reverse tower, LOL.

Certainly would not buy without a test drive, we should see open water in the next 30 days or so if you can wait until then, Good Luck in Your Search

[gride]

Unbiasedly you'll probably enjoy either boat equally, but nautique gives you PCM engine, a pride and family no other brand will bring you, and 8+ decades of quality. The people on this site are enough to make the choice nautique I think.

[wskiboy]

I ski behind a malibu all winter and own a nautique , the difference is huge .I have had very few issues with my boat .In his boat the gauges are sporadic the fuel gauge does not work ,the fit and finish are not even close

[bubba]

Longevity

My brother said it the best, "How does your 25 year old Nautique feel?" It didn't take me long to answer, "It feels and handles the same as the day I bought it." Get in some older boats (3-5 years old) and you will quickly see a difference. Vibrations, rattles and gelcoat issues were noticable in all the other brands I tried out before buying another Nautique.