When is a sport boat not a sport boat?

Dave 205

New Member
Mar 15, 2011
449
Omaha, NE
Boat Info
2006 205 Sport, Shorelander Trailer. Towed by 2012 Ford F-150 Supercrew 5.0 with factory tow package
Engines
Mercruiser 5.0 220 HP Carb w/ Alpha 1 Drive
I enjoy my 21' boat, but at times wish it were a bit bigger to make it easier to entertain. But, our entertainment is active water sports - name a tube, board, ski, etc., we do it. I've been on a few inboard ski boats, so I know what that feels like, and my boat is already big enough that it clearly puts out a rougher wake, and a tough churn that gets back to skiers at higher speeds. What can I upgrade to that might be good for 10 people, but you still feel is fun to play behind? A small head could be a benefit to longer days on the water, or when the water is still a bit chilly.
 
go test ride a 240 sundeck , 250 SLX , 270 SLX, there are others to .
 
You may need to consider a different tow vehicle depending on what you want to do. Lots of good bowriders out there. I don't know what your budget is so its difficult to make a recomendation on a specific model. 10 people on the boat is a lot even for a 25 footer. Maybe something in the 27 foot size but you won't get the wake you want for skiing. Moomba makes a nice inboard with tons of seating but its not very versitile. The old 260 BR from the early 2000's would be a good choice if you can find a garage kept mint example. But I wouldn't tow it with a Durango.

If budget isn't an issue you could get an Aqua Majestic.
http://www.aquamajestic.com/aquamajestic.htm
 
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The best sport boat ,if you can call it that was a 1989 260 cuddy with twin 4.3 , it was big , it was fun, load the boat up and pull two skiers.
 
Look at the sundeck. I love mine. Plenty of room and pulls toys fine. As far as a tow ask Chuck on this board he pulled his 24 (same size as the 26 sundeck now) just fine with his Durango
 
When you have to run the 4BBL to ski, it's not a Sport Boat! My friend has a 260 Sundeck and it's very nice. It has a 496FI motor but I'm sure my 454 4BBL uses more gas at 30mph. We kept the CV-23 to ski and just had her out tonight for a sunset ride, Mike.
 
The older 240 or 260sunndeck would be the perfect fit IMHO
 
I admit I am biased: 240 SunDeck is ideal in my mind. Easy to tow, launch, and recover with an F-150. Plenty of room for grandkids and kids, food and drinks. Tows anything you want with plenty of power. A potty to extend the season when the water is too cold for the ladies/girls to "go". When I lower the bimini posts, I can get under the lower bridges to get back to the coves. And my local dealer is on first name basis and is happy to offer help/advice even when out on the water and the main circuit breaker trips (but that's another story). :grin:
 
Thanks for the suggestions. Kind of nice to see the same ideas pop up a few times. It has to stay garagable. I have a 14' X 35' bay, but have to get it through a 9' X 7' tall door.

I'm basically milking the benefits of the Durango - got it new, cash and a not so beloved '99 Town and Country got me the Durango and the title on the same day, 70K miles, dependable terrific garaged condition. It's rated to 5,600, but the 4,600 I'm pulling now seems to be enough. I am prepared to get either an F-150, or possibly an Expedition when the time comes.

While I gravitate to the Sea Rays, the inboards have caught my attention. I'm not sure if they have a head. The Malibu is attractive. I fear what the price tag might be.

Blaster, what are your thoughts on the Moomba not being versatile?

Thanks
 
Just to clarify my Durango was rated for 9800lbs. You would have to have a bigger rig for the older style 240SD plus it would not fit through your 9*7 door. With that said may be 240 would not be the best for you.
 
Blaster, what are your thoughts on the Moomba not being versatile?

Thanks
I looked at them at the boat show last spring. They had lots of seating with a wrap around bench. The moomba is made for towing not cruising and entertaining. Specifically it's a wake board boat. I haven't been on the water with one but none of the inboard ski boats will give you a nice ride on choppy water. I remember you had some impact damage on your prop repaired last spring. If you have an inboard take a strike like that you will be repairing more than the prop. I think unless all you want to do is ski you are better off with stern drive power. The f150 idea sounds good, its a good truck.
 
The 220 SD (older style) might fit through your door. It has a head, seats 10, pulls great and is easily towed behind your Durango.
 

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