Water skiing and towed sports represent exciting nautical disciplines that combine speed, technique and thrills. Whether you are attracted to classic water skiing, wakeboarding with its spectacular aerial figures, or even buoy rides and kneeboarding, each practice requires specific conditions to fully express yourself. The choice of boat then becomes a determining factor that directly influences your experience on the water. An unsuitable boat can compromise not only your sporting performance, but also your safety and that of your passengers. The engine, the shape of the hull, the wake generated and the on-board equipment are all parameters to be considered carefully. Today, the market offers a wide variety of boats specially designed for these activities, ranging from ultra-specialized models to multi-purpose boats that appeal to families. In this article, we guide you through the different types of boats adapted to towed sports, their essential technical characteristics, and the criteria that will allow you to make the most appropriate choice according to your level, your budget and your objectives.
What are the criteria for choosing a water ski or towed sports boat?
The power and the type of engine
The engine represents the heart of your boat and largely determines its traction capacities. There are three main configurations: inboard engines (inboard engines), outboard engines (outboards) and jet systems. Inboard motors offer the major advantage of placing the weight in the center of the boat, which improves stability and allows better wake control. This configuration remains the absolute reference for competitive water skiing and wakeboarding. Outboard motors, which are more common on multi-purpose boats, are ideal for casual use and have the advantage of more accessible maintenance. Jet systems, on the other hand, impress with their increased safety since they do not have an external propeller, which makes them particularly suitable for busy areas.
Regarding power, you need at least 200 horsepower to effectively pull an adult skier and allow him to get out of the water without difficulty. For wakeboarding and wakesurfing, where ballast weight is added to the equation to generate a greater wake, engines between 350 and 450 horsepower will be preferred. This additional power guarantees a fresh start and a stable cruising speed, two essential elements for the practitioner's progress. Recent models also incorporate electronic management technologies that optimize consumption while maintaining constant power, a significant advantage for extended outings.
The shape of the shell and the wake
The design of the hull directly influences the type of wake produced by the boat, a fundamental parameter that varies according to the discipline practiced. The flat or slightly shallow V-shells generate a minimal, flat wake, ideal for classic water skiing where the aim is to glide on the smoothest surface possible. These shells allow the skier to draw precise curves without being hindered by parasitic waves. In contrast, deep-V shells move more water and naturally create a stronger wake. This characteristic, long considered a defect for water skiing, is becoming a major asset for wakeboarding and wakesurfing where riders use these waves as launching pads for their tricks.
Technological evolution has allowed the development of hybrid shells that incorporate sophisticated wake control systems. Adjustable deflector plates, combined with ballast systems strategically distributed in the shell, allow the height and shape of the wake to be modulated according to the activity of the moment. Some high-end boats even offer saved presets that automatically adapt the boat configuration according to the rider's profile and the discipline chosen. This versatility is a real advantage for families who practice different towed sports and want to optimize their experience without changing boats.
Comfort and on-board equipment
Beyond pure performance, on-board comfort transforms a simple nautical outing into a real leisure experience. The ergonomic seats with UV-resistant and saltwater coatings ensure optimal support even in tight turns. The secure storage spaces protect your personal belongings, electronic equipment and sports equipment while browsing. Traction towers are an equipment that has become almost indispensable for wakeboarding, because they raise the attachment point of the rudder and facilitate aerial tricks by giving more amplitude to the rider. These structures can be foldable to facilitate towing and parking the boat.
Integrated ballast systems represent a revolution for modern towed sports. These water tanks make it possible to increase the weight of the boat by several hundred kilos, thus creating a larger and more sculpted wake. Some models offer three- or four-point ballast configurations with automated filling and emptying, controllable from the cockpit. Marine audio systems add a festive dimension to outings, while connected technologies such as the Oria Marine solution make it possible to monitor the parameters of your boat in real time and to anticipate maintenance needs thanks to intelligent sensors. Finally, safety equipment such as wide-angle mirrors, lift ladders, and multiple anchor points for lifters are essential items to check before buying.
The different types of boats for water skiing and towed sports
Water ski boats (inboard direct)
Direct inboard water ski boats represent technical excellence for the practice of slalom and classic skiing. Their mechanical configuration places the engine at the center of the hull with a direct transmission to the propeller, which ensures perfect balance and minimal wake. The specific hull of these boats, generally flat or with a very slight V, literally glides over the water creating a clean and regular track. This particularity allows the skier to benefit from optimal conditions to combine the passages between the buoys with precision and stability. The exceptional maneuverability of these boats also facilitates tight turns at the end of the course, a crucial aspect during official competitions.
The MasterCraft ProStar has remained an undisputed reference in the world of competitive water skiing for several decades. This iconic model is used in the majority of international competitions thanks to its reliability and the consistency of its wake. The Nautique Ski 200 is also a preferred choice for purists, offering a remarkable combination of tradition and modern technological innovations. These boats generally incorporate ultra-precise speed control systems that maintain the chosen pace to the nearest kilometer per hour, thus eliminating variations that could interfere with the skier's performance. Their high-quality fibreglass construction ensures exceptional durability, even after years of intensive use. Recent models also incorporate digital dashboards that display speed, rope length and adjustment parameters in real time, allowing the pilot to offer practice conditions that are perfectly reproducible from one session to the next.
Wakeboarding and wakesurfing boats (inboard V-drive)
Wakeboarding and wakesurfing boats are distinguished by their V-drive architecture, a configuration where the motor is positioned at the back of the boat and drives the propeller forward via a reverse transmission system. This ingenious arrangement allows the weight to be concentrated at the back, creating a plate that is naturally suited to generating a large and well-formed wake. The deep V hull of these boats displaces a significant quantity of water which, combined with the ballast system, produces waves that can reach over one meter in height. These liquid ramps offer riders the opportunity to perform spectacular tricks with impressive amplitudes. The specific shape of the wake, with its clean and vertical faces, also allows the practice of wakesurfing, a discipline where the rider evolves directly in the wave without being attached to the boat.
Wake towers are a signature piece of equipment on these boats, sometimes rising up to two meters above the bridge. These sturdy tubular structures not only support the traction bar at an optimum height, but also serve as a support for audio speakers, bimini panels, and sometimes even LED lights for dusk sessions. Malibu is the undisputed leader in this segment with models like the Wakesetter, which integrates the Surf Gate system allowing the wake to be moved to one side or the other of the boat for wakesurfing. Axis offers more accessible alternatives without sacrificing performance, while Moomba seduces with its excellent value for money with boats that are perfectly equipped from the basic configuration. Centurion stands out for its technological innovations such as the Ramfill system that fills ballasts in less than two minutes. These brands generally offer integrated control systems that allow you to remember each rider's favorite settings and recall them with a simple click.
Multi-purpose boats (equipped bowriders and semi-rigid boats)
Multipurpose boats represent a pragmatic solution for families and casual users who want to combine different nautical activities without investing in an ultra-specialized boat. Bowriders, with their open bow offering additional seating, are an intelligent compromise between living space on board and traction capabilities. These boats generally offer sufficient inboard or outboard motorization to tow one or two riders simultaneously in satisfactory conditions. Their versatile hull makes it possible to practice recreational water skiing, towed buoys and even beginner wakeboarding, although the wake generated is modest compared to specialized models. The undeniable advantage lies in their versatility: these boats can easily be transformed into real leisure platforms for family days, with generous sunbathing areas, integrated coolers and modular seat configurations.
Equipped semi-rigid boats, which are particularly popular in Europe, offer an interesting alternative thanks to their lightness and maneuverability. Their structure combining a rigid shell and inflatable tubes guarantees excellent stability and increased safety in the event of a fall. With an outboard engine of 150 to 250 horsepower, these boats effectively pull beginners and intermediate level practitioners. Their ease of launching and their simplified maintenance appeal to owners who sail occasionally. However, these versatile boats show their limits in the face of the requirements of experienced riders: the low wake is difficult for advanced wakeboarding, and the stability in tight turns remains lower than that of specialized boats. Passenger comfort can also be affected by the more pronounced bounces on the waves compared to the deep hulls of dedicated models. However, these compromises represent an acceptable balance for those who value versatility of use and are looking for a boat capable of carrying out various missions throughout the nautical season.
Comparison: specialized boats vs multipurpose boats
Advantages and disadvantages of each category
Specialized boats naturally excel in their field of choice by offering optimal performance and an incomparable gliding experience. A real wakeboarding boat generates a perfectly sculpted wake that propels the rider with power and consistency that is impossible to replicate with a multi-purpose boat. The precision of the steering, the stability in traction and the quality of the wake fully justify the investment for assiduous practitioners and competitors. These boats also maintain excellent resale value thanks to their popular status in the towed sports community. However, their specialization is also their main limitation: using a water ski boat for a simple trip or a fishing trip is not practical given the limited space and the absence of facilities dedicated to these activities. The acquisition cost represents a significant investment, generally between 60,000 and 150,000 euros for high-quality new models.
The maintenance of specialized boats also requires particular attention. Ballast systems require thorough purging prior to wintering to avoid frost damage, and complex wake control mechanisms require regular checks. Conversely, multi-purpose boats are attractive because of their financial accessibility, with decent models available from 25,000 euros in new ones and interesting opportunities on the second-hand market. Their versatility makes it possible to alternate between different activities during the same day: water skiing in the morning, lunch break anchored in an isolated cove, then towed buoy for children in the afternoon. This flexibility of use maximizes the time spent on the water and justifies the investment for families. Simplified maintenance, especially for outboard powered models, reduces annual operating costs. On the other hand, these boats will never fully satisfy the demanding rider who is looking for optimal conditions of practice in order to progress technically and push his limits.
What type of boat according to your profile?
Beginners who discover towed sports will find happiness with a used multipurpose boat in good condition. This approach makes it possible to explore different disciplines without excessive financial commitment while developing management skills. A bowrider of six to seven meters equipped with an engine of at least 200 horsepower offers more than enough capacity to learn the basics of water skiing and to learn how to wakeboard. This learning phase also makes it possible to determine which discipline your passion will naturally focus on, valuable information before considering a larger investment in a specialized boat. The integration of a surveillance system like Oria Marine can also help you better understand how your boat works and anticipate maintenance needs, a considerable asset when starting out in nautical ownership.
The passionate practitioner who sails several times a week during the season should seriously consider acquiring a specialized boat corresponding to his favorite discipline. The investment is fully justified by the superior quality of experience and the increased performances that will facilitate technical progress. Brands like Moomba and Axis offer specialized entry-level models that offer an excellent compromise between price and performance. For families who want to combine water sports and towed sports, a high-quality multi-purpose boat is the best choice. Then give preference to models with a removable traction tower and generous power, which will considerably broaden the spectrum of use. Finally, the intensive practitioner and the competitor should not compromise on quality and focus on market references such as MasterCraft, Nautique or Malibu. These premium investments guarantee performance at the highest level, exemplary reliability and lasting satisfaction that will more than compensate for the additional initial cost.
The best brands and models of 2025
High-end boats
MasterCraft maintains its undisputed leadership position in the premium segment with a comprehensive range covering all towed sports. The ProStar remains the absolute reference for competitive water skiing with its perfectly flat wake and constant speed to the nearest meter. For wakeboarding, the X24 model impresses with its bulky wake and multiple ballast customization options. The brand's technological innovations include the Gen 2 Surf system that creates exceptional asymmetric wakesurfing waves. Prices range from 85,000 euros for entry-level models to 180,000 euros for the most equipped versions. The irreproachable quality of construction and the longevity of these boats justify this investment for demanding enthusiasts.
Nautique competes with MasterCraft by offering boats of timeless elegance combined with cutting-edge technologies. The Nautique Surf Select system allows the wake to be instantly switched from one edge to the other without mechanical manipulation, a technical feat appreciated by surfers. Super Air models like the G23 generate impressive waves while maintaining controlled consumption thanks to the optimization of the hulls. The luxurious interior finishes with premium upholstery and genuine wood paneling give these boats a special charm. Prices start around 90,000 euros and can exceed 200,000 euros for tailor-made configurations. Malibu completes this prestigious trio with an approach that is resolutely focused on innovation. The Power Wedge II system adjusts the boat's attitude in real time to optimize the wake according to the conditions. The Wakesetter models incorporate intuitive touch screens that control all the parameters of the boat. With a price range between 80,000 and 170,000 euros, Malibu offers a slightly more favorable equipment/price ratio than its direct competitors while maintaining exemplary quality standards.
Accessible and efficient models
Glastron democratizes access to towed sports with its GTS range, which offers versatile boats capable of towing efficiently for a controlled budget. The GTS 205 equipped with a 220-horsepower V6 engine offers enough power to get a skier out of the water without difficulty while maintaining a price of less than 45,000 euros. The quality of construction and the careful finishes position Glastron as a sure value in the accessible segment. Versions equipped with an optional traction tower expand the possibilities for recreational wakeboarding. Bayliner, a historic American brand, continues to seduce with spacious bowriders and reliable engines. The VR5 model combines generous interior volume with honest traction capabilities for a price of around 40,000 euros. These boats favour family comfort and versatility of use, which may involve some compromise on pure performance in towed sports.
Four Winns stands out for its excellent value for money and smart innovations like the Volvo Penta Forward Drive system that enhances the traction experience. The Horizon 190 model is an ideal gateway for families who want to learn towed sports on a budget limited to around 35,000 euros. The recognized reliability of the brand and the availability of spare parts facilitate long-term maintenance. These accessible models allow you to fully enjoy nautical pleasures without breaking the bank, provided you accept that performance will fall short of high-end specialized boats. To maximize sustainability and anticipate the maintenance needs of these boats, installing a monitoring system like Oria Marine represents a wise investment that can prevent costly breakdowns by constantly monitoring the vital parameters of your engine and onboard equipment.
Electrical and innovative alternatives
The ecological transition is also affecting the world of towed sports with the emergence of electric propulsion boats that are redefining the standards of the sector. The Swedish brand Candela is revolutionizing the market with its C-8 equipped with hydrofoils and an electric motor that consumes 80% less energy than a conventional boat. This technology makes it possible to slide over water by drastically reducing resistance, which compensates for the limitation of batteries. Although primarily designed for cruising, this boat can tow an occasional skier with reduced autonomy. The silence of operation and the total absence of emissions are significant advantages, especially on sensitive bodies of water where restrictions are increasing. The price of around 300,000 euros nevertheless limits its distribution to a wealthy and avant-garde clientele.
Players like Vision Marine Technologies are developing electric outboards specifically designed to replace internal combustion engines on existing boats. Their E-Motion engine produces 180 equivalent horsepower with an instantaneous torque that is particularly suited to traction. The battery life of about two hours allows several complete skiing or wakeboarding sessions before recharging. The drastically reduced operating cost, with a full recharge at less than ten euros, partially compensates for the high initial investment. Several traditional manufacturers like Malibu and MasterCraft are also experimenting with hybrid versions of their flagship models, combining a combustion engine for pure power with an electrical system for low-speed travel. These innovations foreshadow the future of towed sports where performance and environmental respect will no longer be at odds. However, charging infrastructures remain a major obstacle to the development of this sector, as few ports and nautical clubs currently have the necessary equipment.
Care and safety tips
Engine and shell maintenance
The longevity of your boat depends directly on the rigor of your maintenance routine. Before each trip, always check the engine oil level and visually inspect the engine compartment for leaks or anomalies. Also, check the coolant level and the condition of the alternator belt, which may deteriorate over time and exposure to humidity. Test the operation of the bilge pump that removes seepage water, an essential safety equipment that is often overlooked. After each session, rinse the hull and engine thoroughly with fresh water, especially if you are sailing in salt water. This simple operation prevents corrosion and salt deposits that accelerate the degradation of metal components and joints.
For inboard boats, special attention should be paid to the cooling system. Run the motor with fresh water after each use in salt or brackish water to remove corrosive residues in the internal circuits. Ballast systems also require specific maintenance: drain them completely after each outing to avoid water stagnation, which favors the development of algae and bad odors. At the end of the season, a total purge followed by an antibacterial treatment properly prepares these tanks for wintering. Hull maintenance includes regular cleaning with suitable products that preserve the gelcoat, followed by an application of protective wax that facilitates subsequent cleaning and maintains the shine of your boat. A connected monitoring system like Oria Marine considerably simplifies maintenance monitoring by automatically alerting you when preventive maintenance becomes necessary, thus avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs.
Safety on board
Safety in towed sports is based on compliance with strict rules and the presence of mandatory equipment on board. French regulations require the presence of at least three people in the boat: the pilot who keeps his hands on the controls and his eyes fixed in front of him, a dedicated observer who exclusively monitors the rider and communicates with the pilot, and possibly the rider himself. The observer plays a crucial role in immediately reporting falls, skier actions, and potential obstacles. This function cannot be delegated to the pilot who must focus all his attention on driving and navigating. Each person on board must have an approved life jacket adapted to their morphology. For the rider, a vest specific to towed sports offers optimal freedom of movement while guaranteeing sufficient buoyancy.
The traction equipment itself deserves regular inspection. Check the condition of the lifter before each session, especially the attachment points and the handle, which are under significant stress. The traction rope must be replaced as soon as loose filaments or rigid areas appear that indicate internal degradation. When navigating, respect a minimum distance of 50 meters from other boats, swimmers and fixed obstacles. The speed must be adapted to the level of the practitioner and to the weather conditions, knowing that a beginner in water skiing evolves comfortably between 25 and 30 km/h while a confirmed wakebordeur will prefer 35 to 40 km/h. Equip your boat with a visible orange flag that indicates the presence of a skier in the water, which is mandatory in many jurisdictions. A complete first aid kit, a functional means of communication and a climbing ladder that facilitates access to the boat from the water complete the essential safety equipment for serene and responsible sessions.
Conclusion
Choosing a boat for water skiing and towed sports is a significant investment that deserves careful consideration. The essential criteria to consider include the power and the type of engine that determine the traction capacities, the shape of the hull that directly influences the wake generated, as well as the on-board equipment that guarantees comfort and safety. The distinction between specialized and multi-purpose boats is decisive: the former offer optimal performance for a specific discipline while the latter favour flexibility of use at the price of compromising on pure capabilities. Your profile as a practitioner, whether it is a beginner discovering these sports, a family looking for versatility or a demanding competitor, will naturally guide your decision towards the most suitable category.
The available budget is obviously a decisive factor, with options available from 35,000 euros for entry-level multi-purpose boats, up to more than 150,000 euros for high-end specialized models equipped with the latest technology. Established brands such as MasterCraft, Nautique and Malibu justify their premium with exemplary construction quality and top performance, while alternatives such as Glastron, Bayliner or Four Winns democratize access to towed sports with attractive quality-price ratios. The emergence of electric drives also foreshadows a more environmentally friendly future, although current autonomy limitations and still embryonic infrastructures are hampering their massive adoption.
Before finalizing your purchase, take the time to try out several models in real sailing conditions. This approach will allow you to concretely experience the differences in behavior, comfort and performance between the different categories of boats. Talk to other owners, consult specialized forums, and don't hesitate to seek advice from experienced retailers who can guide you according to your specific needs. Remember that thorough maintenance and compliance with safety instructions will maximize your enjoyment on the water while maintaining your investment. With the boat adapted to your ambitions and a responsible commitment to practice, towed sports will offer you years of unforgettable sensations and special moments with family or friends on the water.
FAQ — Boats for waterskiing and towed sports
Q1. What is the ideal power to pull a water skier?
The minimum recommended power to effectively tow an adult water skier is around 200 horsepower. This motorization allows fresh water to exit and maintain a stable speed between 25 and 58 km/h depending on the level of the practitioner. For competitive water skiing, specialized boats generally have 300 to 400 horsepower in order to guarantee optimal acceleration and a perfectly constant speed, essential elements for timed performances. If you plan to pull several people simultaneously or practice with weighted equipment such as wakeboarding, choose a power greater than 350 horsepower. Modern engines also offer the advantage of electronic management systems that optimize consumption while delivering the power needed at the right time.
Q2. Can you water ski with a hardtail?
Yes, it is entirely possible to practice water skiing with a properly equipped semi-rigid, provided that certain criteria are met. The boat must have an outboard engine of at least 150 horsepower for an adult skier, ideally 200 horsepower or more to guarantee a comfortable exit from the water. The minimum recommended length is around 6 meters in order to ensure sufficient stability during traction. Rigids have the advantage of excellent buoyancy thanks to their inflatable tubes, which reassures beginners in the event of a fall. However, these boats generate a less flat wake than specialized ski boats and can bounce more off the waves, which limits their use to recreational use and at the beginner-intermediate level. For regular or competitive practice, an inboard rigid hull boat remains preferable in terms of stability, comfort and the quality of the wake generated.
Q3. What is the difference between a water ski and a wakeboard boat?
The fundamental differences between these two types of boats lie in the design of their hulls and the objective sought concerning the wake. A water ski boat favors a flat hull or with a very slight V that glides on the water creating a minimal and perfectly smooth wake. This characteristic allows the skier to trace his curves without being disturbed by parasitic waves. The engine is generally positioned in the center with a direct transmission, guaranteeing optimal balance. Conversely, a wakeboarding boat adopts a V-drive configuration with the engine positioned at the back, creating a favourable attitude for generating a bulky wake. The deep V shell displaces more water, and the integrated ballast systems allow several hundred kilos to be added to amplify the wave. Wakeboarding boats are also equipped with high traction towers that facilitate aerial tricks by giving more amplitude to the rider. In summary, the water ski boat seeks the absence of wake while the wakeboarding boat aims to create the most impressive wave possible.
Q4. What are the best boats to start with?
To get started in towed sports, multi-purpose bowrider-type boats are the smartest choice. These boats offer an excellent compromise between traction capacities, family comfort and an accessible budget. Look for a model measuring between 5.5 and 6.5 meters equipped with an inboard or outboard engine of at least 200 to 250 horsepower. Brands like Glastron with the GTS 205, Bayliner with the VR5, or Four Winns with the Horizon 190 offer reliable models that are perfectly suited to learning. These boats generate a moderate wake that is perfect for beginners without being too disruptive for the first few trips out of the water. Their versatility also makes it possible to alternate between different nautical activities, which keeps the whole family interested during outings. On the second-hand market, you will find excellent opportunities with three to five year old models with reasonable mileages for budgets between 20,000 and 35,000 euros. Choose boats that have undergone regular and documented maintenance, ideally equipped with a monitoring system such as Oria Marine, which guarantees the monitoring of essential engine parameters.
Q5. Do you need a specific permit to tow a water skier?
In France, the practice of water skiing and towed sports does not require a specific license separate from the classic boat license. A coastal license allows a skier to be towed at sea up to 6 nautical miles from a shelter, while a river license allows this practice on inland waters such as lakes and rivers. These permits are obtained after theoretical training on navigation rules, marine safety and regulations, followed by a practical exam to demonstrate your mastery of piloting. However, there is one notable exception: motor boats whose power does not exceed 6 horsepower can be driven without a license, but this engine is largely insufficient to effectively tow an adult skier. Beyond legal aspects, the responsible practice of towed sports requires perfect control of your boat, knowledge of priority navigation rules, and understanding the specificities of towing such as maintaining a stable trajectory and the safety distances to be respected. Some nautical clubs offer additional training courses specifically dedicated to towed sports that teach best practices and adapted driving techniques, a precious investment of time to start peacefully in this demanding discipline.
Q6. What accessories are essential to practice safely?
The safe practice of towed sports requires comprehensive equipment that goes beyond simple sliding equipment. First of all, life jackets are the absolutely essential safety element. Each person on board must have a vest approved for their size, and the rider must wear a vest specific to towed sports offering freedom of movement and adapted buoyancy. A quality traction rope, generally between 15 and 23 meters long depending on the discipline, with an ergonomic rudder completes the basic equipment. A wide-angle vanity mirror or panoramic mirror makes it much easier for the pilot to monitor the rider, although the presence of a dedicated observer remains mandatory. The orange flag, mandatory in many jurisdictions, indicates to other users that a skier is operating in the water and requires an increased safety distance.
On board the boat, a complete marine first aid kit allows rapid intervention in the event of minor injuries. A lift ladder attached to the back of the boat considerably facilitates access from the water, which is particularly useful after several tiring passages. A functional means of communication, whether it is a marine VHF or a mobile phone in a waterproof pouch, makes it possible to alert the emergency services in case of emergency. Water ski gloves protect the rider's hands from blisters and improve grip on the rudder. For regular practitioners, investing in a neoprene suit is wise, providing thermal protection, additional buoyancy and impact protection. Finally, an embedded surveillance system like Oria Marine adds a dimension of preventive safety by monitoring the critical parameters of your boat in real time, alerting you immediately in the event of an anomaly before it turns into a potentially dangerous failure in the middle of a session.
