Looking for a new ski boat

[T.O. Boater]

I am looking for thoughts on a 2003 Nautique 206 or other possible boats. I slalom ski at relatively slow speed (30 mph) and long line (15 off). How is the wake on the 206 for this? How is it compared to similarly sized open bow boats from the other companies (ie, MC Prostar 205, Malibu Sunsetter or Response LXI, Moomba Outback).

Thanks.

[jsta281]

I have a 206. For me, a 196 was not ever going to be an option with the number of people/gear we routinely take to the lake. After I came to that conclusion it was a very simple choice to pick the 206. I ski alot behind a 94 prostar 205 and I really like that wake as well, but we have never done a direct comparison with both boats empty. The reality is if you are just an open water skier (like me, but I'm determined to get on a course soon) all direct drive boats are going to have a great wake, so I would suggest you buy the boat or boat company you like.

People that take skiing more seriously then 30 mph at 15 off will give you lots of "subtle" nuances between wakes and why they like one better then another, but all DD boats will have an awesome open water worthy wake.

[bhectus]

I wouldn't say ALL DD boats. There's a few I've skied behind that aren't so pleasant to cross a wake on. Namely my '87 Barefoot.

[NCH2oSki]

I ski all three on a fairly regular basis (206, rlxi and 197). Some of the crew ski 30 mph and all have great things to say about my 15' wake. I like my buddies 2004 response a little better than my 206. The 197 I ski behind is a TT with the big caddy motor, and its not my favorite, but I'm always happy when its his turn to bring his boat. I also skied a 99' 205 for a couple of seasons, and it was a good skiing boat, wakes just a touch larger than the 3 above, but it also had more room, if that comes into play.

The wedge is another bonus on the bu, and the trunk will fit 67" slalom. The trunk on my 206 is much deeper but wont fit anything over a 65" ski. Then again you don't want to much junk in your trunk.