As we roll through the summer months we’re getting to the time of year when manufacturers begin to release new models. Given the surge in demand for 2020 wakeboarding and wakesurfing boats thanks to COVID-19, the 2021 model announcements are already garnering extra attention and hype. This article will serve as a running list of the newest boats we think you should keep your eyes on.
Malibu M220
With the success of the M235 and now the M240, Malibu has added to the M line for 2020 with the M220. At 22-feet 5-inches, the M220, looks to pack a punch. Much like its bigger sibling, the M220 is full of Malibu’s biggest tech and features. If you like the idea of a boat with all the bells and whistles in a little smaller form factor, the M220 may be just what you’re looking for.
New Features
- Higher freeboard and deeper draft means smoother ride and more comfortable seating for passengers.
- Stern Turn thruster at the transom of the boat allows for easier maneuvering in tight spaces and while in reverse.
- The eMLS ballast system offers a 150% fill-time improvement over the previous generation.
- Option for the new GX Tower Mister and keep your entire crew cool on even the hottest days.
Specs
Length: 22′5″
Beam: 102″
Draft: 32″
Capacity: 15
Dry Weight: 6,200 lbs.
Fuel: 79 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 5,160 lbs.
Power Options: 360 HP/400 FT-LBS – 607 HP/606 FT-LBS
Get more information at malibuboats.com.
Centurion Ri265
The Ri265 represents one of the biggest wake/watersports boats ever made. Similar to the previously-announced Ri245, the Ri265 features a slew of new designs and tech, including an updated Opti-V running surface and Roswell’s DropZone Auto tower.
New Features
- 7 ballast locations allow for a whopping 5,850 pounds of ballast to be added.
- Updated Opti-V hull features 20-degrees of deadrise (a deeper “V”) for a smoother ride in rough water, while minimizing bow rise at take off.
- Lay-flat sunpad lounge seats at the back of the boat.
- Software updates feature fuel-consumption data to help captain’s calculate distances/time left based on what’s in the tank.
Specs
Length: 26′6″
Beam: 102″
Draft: 36″
Capacity: 18
Dry Weight: 6,400 lbs.
Fuel: 92 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 5,850 lbs.
Power Options: 450 ft/lb torque – 545 ft/lb torque
Get more info at centurionboats.com!
Centurion Ri245
Although badged with the Ri name, don’t think of the Ri245 as just an “in between” model flanked by the Ri237 and Ri257. The Ri245 is all new, with a modified Opti-V running surface, higher freeboard, and a slew of new features and technology. With more aggressive lines and featuring Roswell’s DropZone Auto tower, the Ri245 also looks different from its siblings.
New Features
- 5,650 pounds of factory ballast, the majority of which can be filled in 90 seconds courtesy of Ramfill.
- Revo side-by-side 12-inch touchscreen dash gives the captain digital control over nearly every function on the boat.
- Redesigned hull reduces bow rise even more, while a new QuickSurf Pro Surf System features longer blades to displace more water and create more powerful waves.
Specs
Length: 24′6″
Beam: 102″
Draft: 36″
Capacity: 16
Dry Weight: 5,700 lbs.
Fuel: 92 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 5,650 lbs.
Power Options: 409 ft/lb torque – 521 ft/lb torque
Get more info from Centurion Boats here!
Axis Wake A24
The A24 is Axis’ biggest boat, and amongst pros and core fans alike, has been known as one of the best bangs for the buck in the game with its massive wakes and waves. So Axis went and made it better.
New Features
- Four additional inches of freeboard allow for a deeper, more comfortable ride for passengers, as well as increased storage space.
- Updated dash makes analog gauges and digital screen easier to see.
- Built-in trash can in bow walkthrough.
- Hull tweaks keep Axis’ signature wakes and waves while providing a softer ride in rougher waters.
Specs
Length: 24′5″
Beam: 102″
Draft: 32″
Capacity: 18
Dry Weight: 5,500 lbs.
Fuel: 76 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 5,320 lbs.
Power Options: Malibu Monsoon M5Di, M6Di or LT4 by GM Marine (400-606 FT-LBS torque)
Get more info from Axis Wake here!
Malibu 23 LSV
The 23 LSV is touted as the best selling wake boat of all time, and there is a reason why it has been so popular for so many years. This versatile V-drive sits right in the comfort zone for many watersports boating families, at 23-feet it’s big enough to handle a large crew, but still easy to trailer and stow. Add in Malibu’s onboard systems like the Power Wedge III and Surf Gate, and you have killer, customizable wakes and waves for all skills, styles and abilities.
New Features
- Option for the new GX Tower Mister and keep your entire crew cool on even the hottest days.
- The 23 LSV now features the updated Command Center layout and features.
- A transom walkthrough has been integrated into the engine hatch.
- The eMLS ballast system offers a 150% fill-time improvement over the previous generation.
- Stern Turn offers increased maneuverability in reverse and tight quarters, like a crowded marina.
Specs
Length: 23′
Beam: 102″
Draft: 27″
Capacity: 15
Dry Weight: 5,200 lbs.
Fuel: 65 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 4,250 lbs.
Power Options: 360 HP/400 FT-LBS – 607 HP/606 FT-LBS
Get more info from Malibu here!
MasterCraft NXT24
The NXT line for MasterCraft has been very popular since its debut, offering wake and watersports enthusiasts the brand’s performance pedigree without the price. For 2021 they’ve added to the line with the biggest model yet: the NXT24. MasterCraft starts the pricing at $82,995, and offers a well-equipped version at $92,995, which in today’s market is quite competitive for a 24-foot boat that holds 16 people.
New Features
- GEN2 Surf System equipped, offering customizable wakes and waves for the whole crew.
- DockStar Handling System can be optioned onto the NXT24, giving the captain more control and maneuverability in reverse and tight docking situations.
Specs
Length: 24′
Beam: 102″
Draft: 29″
Capacity: 16
Dry Weight: 5,000 lbs.
Fuel: 65 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 2,600 lbs.
Power Options: 6.0L 380 HP/407 FT-LBS
Get more info from MasterCraft here!
Super Air Nautique G23
Nautique have taken their legendary G23 and given it some of the upgrades and styling cues found in 2020 Paragon series. You can think of the G23 as a Paragon-Light. That means you get the updated running surface of the Paragon, the new features in the LINC Panoray dash setup, and a lot more. With room for 16 and some of the best wakes and waves on the market, the 2021 G23 is setup to deliver big-time fun for all.
New Features
- Updated running surface matches the Paragon series.
- Like on the Paragon, the new G23 can be optioned with extended sun shades off the tower and bimini, providing coverage the length of the boat.
- New windshield designed to match the new lines of the G23.
- Actuated helm seat is fully automated with more support and options.
Specs
Length: 23′
Beam: 102″
Draft: 31″
Capacity: 16
Dry Weight: 6,000 lbs.
Fuel: 65 gal.
Max Factory Ballast: 2,200 lbs.
Power Options: 8LV – 370 HP / ZZ6 – 450 HP / ZR7 – 475 HP / ZZ8 – 600 HP
