Input on 2013 SAN 230

[brrmax]

We have found a couple very nice low hour 2013s for sale. One has NSS. Haven't been able to test drive yet. Would a 230 be a good all around boat? Our crew can get up to 6-8 adults with 4-6 kids and we like to slalom ski, wakeboard and surf - just for fun at recreational levels.

• Anything I need to be aware of for that year, i.e. any known issues?
• How does it handle in chop? We have really good water in the morning but it can get chopped up on a busy weekend afternoon.
• Does the factory ballast and NSS put out a good surf wave with good push?
• We like teaching new riders - does the wakeboard wake adjust easily for different skill levels? Does the wake remain clean at slower speeds?
• How about engine choices - is the 343 enough with the right prop?
• With the factory ballast, is there enough storage room for slalom skis, vests, etc.?
• Does the warranty transfer w/o additional fees?

I would appreciate any insight from 230 owners - thanks in advance for your help.

[a0128]

I have a friend who has a 230 and I can speak as a passenger. The cockpit is very roomy. I believe the beam is 100" so your group will have lots of room. I like the walkway over the engine cover as people won't be stepping on the engine cover upholstery. See if the one you are looking at has the reversible seat in the rear. This lets everyone face the rear to watch the action.

The 230 is a big hull so the water skiing is not going to be ideal. On the other had the wake board and surf wake is GREAT! Teaching new riders will be interesting as even unloaded (no ballast) the wake is intimidating to the first time rider.

You might need to be more specific on size of chop. The hull can handle most chop with relative ease.

I've read the 343 has good power. If you are contemplating adding extra ballast in the future you should consider a different prop. Some will tell you to look for a 409 if you are going big on additional ballast.

[hoss33]

I am on my 3rd 230, and love it. More than enough room for a group of 10 plus, we were out just this last weekend with 15 adults no problem.
We never had any issues with our 2013 mechanical or electronic.
NSS is awesome, I would have that very high on my list of options, it just makes surfing so easy and enjoyable.
The wake with no ballast will stay fairly clean down to 17ish mph.
Handels chop well for a v-drive boat, will not compare to a big Cobalt etc. but can definetely hold it own.
We have had teh 343 in all 3 of our 230's. We do get the "high altitude prop" which helps get out of the hole, but even with a group of 10 adults plus 4k in ballast boat still plains out well. Key here is to make sure and distribute it properly.
With factory tanks full (all sub floor) there is an emense amount of storage. If you add piggy back sacs in the back or an underseat sac up front it will eat into your storage.
Not sure about your warranty question.

[brrmax]

Thanks for the info Hoss! Sounds like you definitely have some great 1st hand knowledge of the different years. I saw on your other post you have purchased from Buxton's. They have a couple really nice looking, low hour 2013s right now. Do you have any thoughts on how they would be to deal with long distance? I would like to trade my Tige 24V instead of trying to sell out-right. Not sure how that would work out long distance though...

[cedarcreek216]

I can tell you Buxton will be the best to deal with, period. My last boat I traded in was already sold a day later to a buyer in Canada. They prepped it, wrapped it and shipped it. In fact, to MO, they would probably hand deliver it for that short of a distance. But I would take a weekend and drive here and meet the guys and see their setup, worth your time and they will throw in some extras I am sure.

[hoss33]

Exactly what cedarcreek said. Hands down Buxton is the best, awesome group that truly cares about their customers and the Natuitue experience. We have purchased all three of our Nautiques through Phil and will definetely go back in a year or two to purchase another!

[brrmax]

Thanks guys! I like to know as much as possible about the different options when getting serious about a specific brand/model. Do you feel additional ballast is necessary for a good surf and wakeboard wake? Is there someone you would recommend I contact at Buxton's?

[cedarcreek216]

Andrew may be on vacation this week, if he is not, talk with him or directly to Phil. They will both get you taken care of and I have doubt they will work the numbers on your trade in over the phone and internet with verification of everything upon delivery. Just be honest about everything on your boat so there won't be any surprises.