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I currently have a Malibu '14 247 LSV. I have been very happy with it. But I'm moving to a smaller lake and, while the space is nice, I don't need/want something so large. In addition, I'd like to get something with at least a reasonable slalom ski wake. We use it for 40% tubing & cruising, 40% wake surfing, and 20% skiing. We are advanced recreational skiers, FWIW. At this point, we don't wakeboard, but I expect that will change. Regardless, we care more about the surf wave. The number of people on board varies quite a bit. The norm is 5 adults (me, wife, and kids 19 - 23 y.o.). But often we have family and friends out and I'd like the ability to go out with 7+/- if we need to for watersports or even more for a sunset cocktail cruise.
Given the current crazy/inflated values of used boats and the tax benefit of my trade in, I am going to get a new boat. Based on the above, I'm thinking a 22' - 23' would be ideal. I'm considering one 21' but am worried it will be too small. Based on my criteria and searching around, I have narrowed my list down to the Malibu 23 LSV or 21 LX, the Nautique GS22, or the Mastercraft XT23. If you think I have missed an good choice, please let me know. Note, I have not yet done a test drive of the GS22 or XT23 but plan to. Given the temperature, I am not to excited about the prospect of test skiing & surfing.
I'd very much appreciate it if anyone has experience with 2 or more of the boats above with recent model years and can compare for me the surf waves and slalom wakes and any other material differences you'd want to know if you were me. I'd also appreciate input on stepping down from a 25' boat, which was more room than we really needed, to a 21', 22' or 23'. All else equal, smaller, easier to handle and cheaper is preferred, but only if it meets my use needs above.
Thank you very much.
Given the current crazy/inflated values of used boats and the tax benefit of my trade in, I am going to get a new boat. Based on the above, I'm thinking a 22' - 23' would be ideal. I'm considering one 21' but am worried it will be too small. Based on my criteria and searching around, I have narrowed my list down to the Malibu 23 LSV or 21 LX, the Nautique GS22, or the Mastercraft XT23. If you think I have missed an good choice, please let me know. Note, I have not yet done a test drive of the GS22 or XT23 but plan to. Given the temperature, I am not to excited about the prospect of test skiing & surfing.
I'd very much appreciate it if anyone has experience with 2 or more of the boats above with recent model years and can compare for me the surf waves and slalom wakes and any other material differences you'd want to know if you were me. I'd also appreciate input on stepping down from a 25' boat, which was more room than we really needed, to a 21', 22' or 23'. All else equal, smaller, easier to handle and cheaper is preferred, but only if it meets my use needs above.
Thank you very much.