How Much Does a Wakeboard Boat Weigh? Get Facts Here!

It’s important to learn the weights of boats, mostly due to towing requirements. On the other hand, wake boat owners ask, “How much does a wakeboard boat weigh?” because they’re also concerned with performance and handling, particularly when adjusting the ballast system and getting the best wake shape.

The average boat weight range is between 2,000 pounds to 6,000 pounds. That applies to boats spanning 18 to 25 feet which encompass wake boats of all sizes, including hybrids.

Typical Weights of Wakeboard Boats

The question, “How heavy are boats?” will always be difficult to answer with a single figure because a lot of factors affect boat weight. Wake boat weight fluctuates just as much since the said facets affect them, too, as proven by the following ranges I’ve researched.

Another notable fact is that the Chaparral 30, which was considered the largest wake boat, has a declared dry weight of 8,200 pounds. Boat Test tested it, and they discovered that it actually weighs more, 9,015 pounds, to be exact.

That only proves that we can’t ever really limit these boats to a range, especially if we’re going to consider every wake boat that has ever been manufactured.

Wakeboard Boat Models and Their Weights

When we look at wakeboard models, it’s clear that most of the “classic” wake boats (meaning those that are made for optimal wakeboarding) rarely go over 25 feet. We only ever see deviations from the standard weight range if we start looking at outliers like hybrid wake boat/bowrider models or those that are larger than most for the most part.

Consider the following models, for example:

Notice how some of the longer and weightier models tend to be no longer pure wakeboard boats (but that’s not always the case!) The Regal L26 Surf and LS9 are both classed as hybrid bowrider/wake boats, and one of them uses an I/O.

An I/O motor isn’t exactly ideal for wakeboarding, and the bowrider hybrids incorporate them. Regals are particularly known for doing that, and many experienced wakeboarders can attest that they aren’t really ideal options.

Even so, we can’t deny that they’re still technically wakeboard boats.

Regarding Dry Weight

All of the weights mentioned above refer to each vessel’s dry weight (the boat’s weight upon manufacture). Boat dry weight will invariably be an important factor not only for trailering but also for ensuring that you’ll have an optimal wakeboarding experience.

After all, it determines how deeply the boat will sit in the water. More often than not, more weight means a bigger wake due to the amount of water it displaces. That ultimately impacts how you’re going to do proper weight distribution for your boat.

For your further reference, I’ve listed down 15 more models with their respective dry weights. I’ve made sure to include most of the top brands as well as some of the more obscure ones for a larger sample size.

I understand that most listing sites make wake boats synonymous with ski boats. This is why I only picked the ones that visibly have towers and checked their specifications.

Here they are as follows:

Factors Affecting Wakeboard Boat Weight

The average weight of a boat will naturally be affected by its hull material and integral components. These make up the dry weight.

Those made of aluminum will inevitably be lighter than those composed of fiberglass. As we all know, wake boats also have towers, which have an average weight of 250 pounds. Not to mention the ballast systems.

The ideal wake boat engine is an inboard one. Factoring in wakeboard boat dimensions, all the said components and amenities are already included in the dry weight.

Past dry weight, here are the other factors that will affect the wake boat’s weight:

Determining the Actual Weight

Now, I get that you’re probably also curious about wake boats’ weight because you want to ensure that you’ll be able to pair your choice with the proper trailer.

First, let’s tackle why it’s important to look at the wake boat’s weight besides the heft of your actual wakeboard.

Why Does Wakeboard Boat Weight Matter?

Heavy wakeboard boats naturally produce the largest wakes. Once you decide to increase the boat’s weight by adding more ballast bags or adjusting the ballast system, that almost always means you want to increase the wake’s size as well. Performance-wise, that’s the sole factor why you should be mindful of wake boat weight.

Obviously, knowing the boat’s total weight guarantees safe trailering. Just look at the tools for trailer weight calculation online, and you’ll see that the first thing it will ask is the boat’s dry weight: https://venturetrailers.com/buying-guide/weight-calculator/

Common Items and Their Estimated Weights

The gross trailer weight (GTW) includes the weight of the trailer and all its cargo, including your boat. You’ll have to add these together to ensure that you’ll stay within safe towing limits.

It’s hard to account for extra gear because there’s a lot that can be personalized in most wake boats. What more if we add in the PFDs, tower speakers, additional safety equipment, entertainment devices, food and drink, and all your other personal stuff?

I’ve prepared a table for your easy reference:

Capacity Calculation

You can feel free to use the calculator I’ve shared above or just look at the exact capacity printed on the trailer’s data plate. Besides those, you don’t have to complicate your trailer weight calculations.

Begin by getting the trailer’s curb or empty weight. Do this by driving your trailer on a public scale and making sure nothing’s on it. Once you get the exact figure, follow this formula:

Trailer’s GVWR – Trailer curb weight

For example: 5,000 pounds – 1,200 pounds = 3,800 pounds

That means 3,800 pounds is your safe payload capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many passengers can my wakeboard carry?

Every boat has a passenger capacity plate, which you should always follow. It will tell you the maximum weight and number of passengers.

Take note that just because your boat’s capacity tells you that you can have a maximum of 6 passengers onboard doesn’t always mean that you can safely accommodate six adult people every time. Always look at the maximum weight capacity first.

What should I consider when towing a wakeboard boat?

It’s no different from any other boat. Make sure you’re not going over your weight capacity and know the exact weight of your boat. Inspect every vital component of the trailer before departing.

Always account for tongue weight, too, and the type of axle that may better accommodate your boat. After all, these factors ensure stability while trailering.

How do I know my car can pull my wakeboard boat?

Get your exact GTW (or GCW or Gross Combined Weight in some circles) that accounts for the weight of both the boat and trailer, with all the additional cargo considered.

Next, check your vehicle’s exact tow rating. It should be indicated as Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). The GCW shouldn’t go past your vehicle’s GCWR.

Conclusion

Overall, when answering the question, “How much does a wakeboard boat weigh?” you clearly have to take the time to look at the specific weight of the wakeboard vessels you’re considering. This is the only way to get the most satisfactory answer.

In turn, you’ll be able to immediately know whether it will be appropriate for the wakeboarding experience you’re anticipating and confirm its correct towing requirements.