206 or 216???

[ncnautiquefan]

Hi, this is my first post here but I have been a long time lurker on this site. I currently have a 95 SN that I have had for about 8 years. Its been a great boat but is starting to show its age a little and I also wakeboard a bit so I am thinking of upgrading to a new boat. I would like to have something that is a fairly good crossover boat. I am not looking for something with a monster wake but just something that is just a little better suited to wakeboarding instead of what I have now which is basically a slalom ski boat.

So far, what I have been thinking is a new Air 206 LTD with Tower, Hydrogate, and the 330hp engine. I know most people will say that I should get the 216 because it is bigger and has more storage. However, I live right on the lake I ski so storage isn't that great of a concern. Also, I wouldnt mind saving a little on the cost of the boat either, and I am assuming that I will save quite a bit by going with a 206 like I said above rather than a 216 similarly equipped.

Now, here is what my question is. I have seen on posts here where people talk about 2006 Air 206's. However, on the Nautiques website it only shows the 206 as a Ski model. So are they still making an Air 206? Is the air 206 just an option package for the Ski 206.

Also, I am just wondering in round numbers what anyone thinks a 206 like I described above would cost. Its been a while since I've purchased one of these and my dealer doesn't really seem to want to talk price too prematurely, so I am just wondering what a round number price would be.

[dawnpatrol206]

I was in the same situation in that I sold my 95 196 and ordered a 06 206 Team Edition back in 3/06. My boat is equiped with the following: Tower, Defcom III Tower Speakers, Hydro gate, Teak Swim Plateform, Bow Filler Cushion, 2 Additional Pull Out Cleats, Perfect Pass, Tower Mount Mirror and 330 Excaliber. I ordered the boat with the 05 stripping pattern and the Air Decals as I wanted something different from my 95. You can get a Ltd with the tower and other options but if you want the other gooddies it may be the same cost to get the Team edidition if you go new. That was the case for me. My trailer was also upgraded over the stock trailer by about 2000.00 which included Stainless Steel fenders, 4 wheel disk brakes, oil bath hubs, 5 custom wheels, Spare tire carrier,Swing tounge, Nautique cut out light on front steps, aditional lights on back and prop guard wheels . The Custom Tower Bimini and Sunbrella Travel cover also was included in the cost of the boat. As far as cost, depending on which package you decide and what options (including trailer) I would say 40-50K+. We were fortunate in that our dealer sold my 95 w /450 hrs for 19,500 ( I was asking 20K). He had mine sold before he even saw the boat in person, just pictures. and made us a heck of a deal on the 06. There is definately more room in the 206 than your 95. The 206 was a great move for us.

Hope this helps

Steven

[redelf75]

Dawn Patrol,

Great looking boats, both of them. What is the "Nautique cut out light on front steps". Can you post of pic of it for us? Thanks,

[dawnpatrol206]

This may not be the best picture, (maximize the picture) but the Nautique is cut out of the metal (skirt) on the front steps of the trailer and there is a white lens with an amber light behind the lens that illuminates the Nautique cut out with the trailer lights on.

Pretty cool option and looks great at night.

I will try and post some pictures with the lights on.

Steven

[redelf75]

I like it. THanks.