Top wake boats at 2025 SCIBS

Some of the biggest names in wakeboarding had their latest boats on display at the Sanctuary Cove International Boat Show on the Gold Coast. 

From affordable all-rounders to ultra-luxe performance giants, there was a little something for every type of wake connoisseur. 

Malibu, Axis, Nautique, and Mastercraft were among the heavy hitters with a presence at the show, and we picked four of our favourite boats.

The ultimate all-rounder. This boat has capability for wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and waterskiing, ensuring no one in the family is left disappointed. It features a classic diamond hull, while the all-new Malibu Command Centre is jam-packed with features. It also comes Surf Gate and Power Wedge III as standard, as well as an audio system. The boat is also built in Australia at Malibu’s Albury manufacturing plant.  

Price: From $199,527
Engine: Monsoon M5Di (option to upgrade to M6Di)
Power Output: 360hp (option for 430hp)
Capacity: 11
Key Features: Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, pop-up ski pylon, flip-down swim step, WetSounds audio system, Malibu Command Centre

Axis is a sister brand of Malibu meaning the T220 shares a similar platform and is also built in Albury. There are differences though, with the biggest being price. Axis models are generally priced cheaper than Malibu to provide an entry point into the world of wake boats. Still, the T220 comes with the same engine as the 20 VTX, as well as Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, Wet Sounds audio, and a touch screen display as standard. 

Price: From $159,678
Engine: Monsoon M5Di (option to upgrade to M6Di)
Power Output: 360hp (option for 430hp)
Capacity: 15
Key Features: Surf Gate, Power Wedge III, WetSounds audio system, 7-inch touchscreen dash, Axis AW20 tower

If there was a Rolls Royce of wake boats, then it’d probably be the G23 Paragon. The Paragon line of boats represents the pinnacle of Nautique’s range, with more performance, more technology, and more luxury. As well as the latest in wake performance technology, the G23 Paragon features a premium interior, with innovative storage, plenty of comfy seating, and loads of gadgets and gizmos. Nautique is celebrating 100 years in 2025, and this boat has plenty of badges to prove it. 

Price: Unknown, but expect north of $450,000
Engine: PCM ZZ8S
Power Output: 630hp
Capacity: 16
Key Features: Convertible transom seats, rear walk-through design, docking light array, 15-inch dual displays, tower speakers, JL audio system, valuables drawer, board storage hatches, throw pillows, telescopic flight tower, surf system, Garmin watch intergration

World-class wakes are the name of the game for the XT22. With great capability for both wakeboarding and surfing, as well as plenty of creature comforts, the XT22 is a great boat for the true enthusiasts. It includes a touchscreen display, audio system, transom seating, a Z6 tower, and clamping racks as standard. It sits above the more-affordable NTX line, but below the luxe X and XSTAR families. 

Price: From $288,400 (per MasterCraft Melbourne)
Engine: 5.3L GDI HO 
Power Output: 380hp
Capacity: 16
Key Features: Surf system, transom seating, connectivity, wireless chargers, underwater exhaust, MasterCraft MyDrive system, audio system, Z6 tower, clamping racks