“Best” Used surf boat 100k or less

[Jrherring22]

I understand I’m on PN, but really need some guidance. Looking for my first true surf boat and not sure what route to take. Looking to spend 100k give or take. Found my dream G (2017 for $105k) and also found a X23 I like a lot (2016 for $90k)

With all of the research I’ve done, it seems like the X really holds its own and could potentially surf easier. My group is normally 4-6, I’m an intermediate surfer and I have 2 other occasional riders who are “advanced” intermediates, but my wife and others in the group are beginners. Just looking to get the most “boat” I can for the money that will be the easiest to set up for a wide variety of surfers.

thanks for your help.

[jpwhit]

I doubt you'll find that many people with experience in both of those boats that can really give you an unbiased opinion. I own both MasterCraft and Nautique boats and work on a fair number of boats from both brands. In the years you're talking about, I find MasterCraft to be a more reliable boat. In terms of which surf's better and is easier to setup. I'd say go take both boats for a test drive with the size group and conditions you'd expect to for your own use. When you're making an investment of this size, seller's should be willing to do that.

You may want to connect up with GatorBaitWake on the MasterCraft Teamtalk Forum. He runs a Gator Bait Wake Board School and used to use Nautiques. He has moved to MasterCrafts now and goes through 4-5 new boats each season. He has a lot of experience with almost every model of both brands. Super nice guy.

[bturner]

When you get to this level it's going to be a personal preference. I like the look and feel or the "boxed" cushions on the Nautiques interiors and mine in my 2016 are holding up better than the interior of my 07 X2 did. Is that a fair comparison? Probably not due to the difference in years but that's the impression I and a couple of my friends got comparing their mid 2010"s boats with mine. I've had zero issues with my boat in the 5 seasons I've owned it but I also opted for a gauge boat over the display model. That and I take really good care of my boat and don't do stupid things with or to it. While on the topic of used and interiors, I also like there there's a company that is licensed to make skins for the Nautique. This is something that if MC was doing, I wasn't aware of it and I had MC's for probably 20 years. Once your MC ages out on the dealer being able to order them you're on your own.

Styling is again something you either like or don't like with either brand. Given the choice I prefer edgy over the swoopy look MC went with some years ago but again that something that's going to be a personal preference.

As far as performance goes, once again at this level unless you're competing either is going to be fine. I find it near comical that surf boat people lose their minds over a bit of a curl or a couple inches in the size of the wake but that's probably just me not in touch with that level of the hobby. We surf behind my little 200V and life is good yet I've heard people comment on these boards about people having difficulty surfing behind some of the larger wake boats without adding lead or additional ballast. And some of us wonder why lake associations are trying to ban surf ships.

If it were me, all things being equal in condition, hours and options, I'd pocket the $15K for gas/beer and go with the cheaper boat. That or wait until after July Fourth when the official buying season ends and get either for $10K less than they're currently asking. Hate to say it but I don't think this is going to be a great sales season for new or used boat this year.

[FMSKI]

There's a local business that charter surfs (Fish & Duck). His buddy has a Mastercraft but they don't like it. I forget exactly, eg the wake shaper system wasn't good. Also I just saw on youtube video 10 worst used surf boats and some Mastercrafts are on the list, which is a surprise. All heresay, but makes me want to water test before shelling out.

I have never had a "bad" Nautique, through the years so confident when plunking down $ on those - sight unseen for two of them.