Looking for my first ski boat

[redneck joe]

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[Scott Danforth]

Why do you prefer the 2 stroke over the 4 stroke?

The power output per displacement is higher, the motor is 1/2 as complex as a 4-stroke,, the 2 stroke is seriously lighter than an equivalent powered 4-stroke and they pretty much last forever with minimal maintenance.

And best of all, everyone wants 4-strokes, so the market is skewed where 4-stroke used prices are inflated and you can get great running 2-strokes for a reasonable price.

No one ever created a sticker or T-shirt that says "I love the smell of 4-strokes"

 

[Texasmark]

A stern drive is not usually a good choice or a ski boat. They are 1100 pounds or so, causing the boat to put out a larger wake.

An OB will be less than half that weight, have plenty of power and produce a smaller wake. Anyone who cuts across the wake on skis will appreciate the smaller wake.

So will property owners with water front property. Wonder if any law suits have been issued to "wake boat" owners/operators for tearing up folks boats, piers, docks, and water front bulkheads!!!!!!

 

[infx708]

Ok, so I've found a 2007 Caravelle 217 LS with the Mercruiser 5.0 MPI and a 2004 Chaparral 204 SSI with the same engine. Looks like both boats weigh about the same. The Caravelle is much cleaner and has carpet but the Chaparral closer by about 8 hours.

 

[Chris1956]

Those will not be good ski boats, as they will put out a large wake. They will be good family runabouts.

 

[matt167]

Probably not the best as a dedicated ski boat but that type of boat for sure has people skiing behind them every summer

 

[redneck joe]

if the kids are wanting to do competition skiing then these are not for them. If they want to ski and have fun, these will be fine.

I will say one last time then shut up, an outboard aluminum boat will be your friend into old age, for a reason.

 

[DeepCMark58A]

a dedicated ski boat requires deep water as they draw a bit for the rudder and prop. remember that when you are looking at older mastercrafts or ski nautiques. They also are extremely specific to skiing. they will pull up to a dozen skiers right up to 35mph..... no more. boats like the ProStar or MariStar would be good boats if you find a well cared for one as your budget has you looking at 25-30 year old examples of well-cared for ski boats.

I get more than 35 mph in my 1990 prostar but yes I could pull a dead in the water pontoon at 35 mph. Mastercrafts of that era are specific task boats the passenger seats faces backwards made to watch a skier not cruise.