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Wakeboarding is slightly different to waterskiing in that is comprises of waterskiing, snowboarding and surfing maneuvers. Both waterskiing and wakeboarding can be done from the same boat although with wakeboarding you usually have a tower two meters or so above the waterline with a rope mounted on it. The boat is weighted with large ballast tanks to give a larger wake.

Most people opt for a v drive although I have heard it recommended that its best not to go for one that is a true 'deep' drive. The v drive is named as such because for the propeller to spin correctly a v must be created in the shaft.

The ski or wakeboard boat comes under the heading of 'recreational' or 'pleasure' craft and the price range varies considerably from around $15.000 to $75.000.

The best powerboat for you to have to enjoy these pursuits depends upon your budget and the amount of people and equipment that you wish to accommodate.

If you have a boat that has its engine and towing point placed in the center of the boat the driver will have more control over the steering and not be so affected by any antics of the skier being towed behind.

Good powersboats for skiing and wakeboarding have plenty of space for gear to be stored. The gear needs to be within reach so easy access is important. You don't want to be falling over it however so it needs to be out of the way when you are on the boat moving around.

You need a rack for your boards and a place for towels, gloves and vests. Storage lockers can be very useful additions to a boat for this purpose and room for a box with binding lube.

For comfort you will need grab handles that are well placed and cup holders are good to have too. Seats that have a shade are useful when in full sun so that the driver and any passengers don't get sunburned.

The controls should be easy to reach and use. Gages need to be well positioned and also the cooler as well.

When beginning to learning waterskiing and wakeboarding you tend to use slower speeds and then work your way up to faster speeds as you improve. The power of the engine that you look for in a boat should reflect your needs now and a little ahead so that you don't need to change your boat to accommodate your new found need for speed as you become more skilled.

Learn more about this author, Bridget Webber.
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