SYDNEY BOAT SHOW: MasterCraft X46 debut

MasterCraft is set to launch its latest wake surf boat, the X46, at the Sydney International Boat Show opening August 1.

The American tow-sports boat builder has long been known for its high quality ski and wake boats. Launched July 1, the new X46 is no exception.

 Following on from the X45, the X46 takes some of the successful attributes from its sibling boats and combines them in this luxurious 24-footer.

Importer Ronnie Arenson from MasterCraft Australia said: "At the Sydney show this year we will be releasing the all New MasterCraft X46. This is the first boat show in the world that this boat will be seen.

"In fact we have hull number two on display," he added.

"We are also honoured to have Terry McNew, the President of MasterCraft visiting Sydney," Mr Arenson said. "Terry has recently been appointed as the President of MasterCraft and is looking forward to meeting the local dealer network and the Australian public."

Back to the X46 hot out of the oven or mould. Powered by a 6.0-litre Ilmor V8 running through a vee drive, the big MasterCraft is said to offer a thick, rampy wake with a crisp lip for performing re-entries and other trick moves.

Onboard, the interior is as roomy as it is versatile. There’s space for up to 15 people in a serious tow boat that can be configured for serious wake riding, cruising or merely lounging at anchor.

A highlight of the new 2014-model X46 is seating that can change with the mood of the boat and crew. The big double helm seat offers comfort and excellent vision and control of the boat but, when it’s time to party, the seat back can fold forward so that the helm seat links up with the lounge.

Meantime, the walk-through transom makes entering or exiting the water a breeze, while the zoned stereo system lets you dial in the right tunes in different areas of the boat.

Of course, storage is has received due designer attention in the X46, with an abundance of space up front and in the rear. Combined with a cool tow tower, the new X46 is sure to attract attention during its Sydney boat show debut and on the water this summer.