Water ski boats for sale

Water ski

It's all about power! Boats that regularly tow water ski enthusiasts behind them should have enough punch to pull people of varying weights out of the water. That's why planing and semi-displacement boats, which accelerate from a standstill to high speeds relatively quickly, are the better choice.

What is a water ski boat

Being towed on water skis behind a powerboat across a lake or the sea is now considered a classic watersports activity for the whole family. What used to be reserved for the "rich and beautiful" because of relatively high boat prices has become a popular pastime for almost every walk of life. Not least because the used boat market for water ski powerboats seems inexhaustible.

In theory, you can water ski behind any boat! Provided the powerboat has enough power to pull the water skier out of the water during the deep-water start and into the (less demanding) planing phase.
Accordingly, one of the most frequently asked questions about water skiing is: how much horsepower does a powerboat need under the hood or on the transom in order to tow a water skier? A specific answer depends on a number of factors: How heavy, how strong and how experienced are the people to be towed across the water on skis? How long is the boat, what hull shape does it have and on which waters will it mainly be used?

Water skiing: what really matters

The hardest part of water skiing is the start. The longer it takes for the half-submerged body to be pulled out of the water and for the skier to glide across the surface, the more exhausting it is for the water skier. That is why planing and semi-displacement boats that accelerate from a standstill to high speeds relatively quickly are the best choice. Also because they produce a relatively low wake and a fairly smooth flow of water under the stern, which beginners and advanced water skiers appreciate alike. For semi-professional and professional use, water ski powerboats are also fitted with special features (see also wakeboard/wakesurf and cross boats).

Water ski boat: how much horsepower

For an adult weighing 75-90 kg, a minimum engine output of 50 hp applies, for example on a relatively light RIB inflatable with an outboard. Heavier planing boats and sport boats need correspondingly more horsepower to pull the skier into the planing phase as quickly as possible.
Taking acceleration, maneuverability and fuel consumption into account, boats with a length of around 14-19 feet have proven ideal.
Of course, almost all runabouts, powerful displacement boats or semi-planing boats are also suitable as occasional "tow boats" for water ski enthusiasts. Provided they meet the requirements mentioned above.

What to consider before buying a used boat

Where will the boat be used? Please note: many European lakes now ban combustion engines, at least at certain times.
If the boat is going to change location often, look out for package deals that include a trailer!
Where has the boat you have your eye on been used before? Salt water (corrosion!), fresh water? If it has often been transported on trailers, check the hull and topsides especially carefully.