Driven by innovation and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence, Centurion Boats has since become a leader in the wake surfing world. As the brand celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s not crossing a finish line—it’s charging into a new era of industry dominance.

Centurion 50: Foundation

Centurion Boats was born out of love—and a little bit of pressure. Founder Rick Lee launched the company in an effort to win over his girlfriend’s father and provide the kind of lifestyle Pamela was used to. Lacking a background in sales but fueled by adrenaline and ambition, Rick knew there was only one thing he wanted to sell: boats.

What began as a personal mission quickly turned into something bigger. His vision and innovation soon outpaced his sales skills, and Centurion Boats took on a life of its own.

Fifty years later, the love story that started it all is still going strong—continuing to inspire a new generation of Centurion boats.

Centurion 50: Innovation

Visionary product innovation has always been the hallmark of Centurion Boats. Shane Stillman and his Product Development Team have carried forward founder Rick Lee’s relentless pursuit of improvement.

In 2016, Centurion took a bold step forward, departing from previous designs to introduce a model line optimized for both rough water ride and superior surf waves. But the true game-changer was the debut of the revolutionary Opti-V Hull—an innovation that produced the Worlds best waves, wake and ride.

Even after 50 years, Centurion remains focused on what’s next—always looking beyond the horizon.

Centurion 50: People

The Centurion Boats community—centered around its headquarters in Merced, California—is grounded in the values that set the company apart. It’s made up of passionate individuals who live and breathe innovation and watersports.

They believe that culture drives performance, and they work every day to prove it—through their craft, their commitment, and every Centurion boat that leaves the line.

Centurion 50: Competition

With demanding 10- to 12-hour days and the constant need to haul wake surfers and equipment, competitions are the ultimate proving ground for any wake boat. And it’s in these high-stakes environments that Centurion Boats truly stand apart.

Ken Scribner, a world championship driver, emphasizes the value of competition feedback in the development process. “Sharing what drivers feel, see, and experience during events—and having the team actually listen—makes Centurion boats better,” he says.

Centurion entered the competitive wake surfing scene in 1996 and has been accelerating its progress ever since. According to Amy Mauzy, Vice President of Marketing and Brand Development, “The buy-in from dedicated wake sports enthusiasts has pushed Centurion to become the world’s best wake boat.”

Scribner adds that it’s competition exposure that gives the brand an edge: “The wake surfing series brings us into a whole new realm of visibility that we simply don’t get through traditional marketing.”

Centurion 50: Giving Back

Waves of Positive Change can begin at any moment and take many forms. Often, they start quietly—like a single drop of water on a still lake, creating ripples that grow into something great.

As Daniel Indelicato, President of Centurion & Supreme Boats, puts it: “We’re here for a bigger purpose now. It’s not just about building boats—it’s about impacting lives.”

At Centurion Boats, giving back isn’t just a mission. It’s the heartbeat of everything they do.

The post Centurion Boats: 50 Years of Innovation and Excellence appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

In 2024, Centurion introduced its Fe model as a way to get new customers into the Centurion lineup for a lower price, as well as to cater to legacy Centurion customers looking for a new model without fully upgrading. For 2025, Centurion has taken that approach a step further. The popular Fe line is now available in three sizes with a plethora of options. Introduced for 2025 is the Nv line, featuring the Nv213 and Nv233. The all-new Nv models have a bold new look, killer ­performance and a more ­palatable price for many.

I was able to test the Nv233, which measures 23 feet, 3 inches and holds up to 14 people. At first glance, the Nv233 looks unique because it is so different from anything else in the Centurion lineup. The hullsides feature angular faceted designs, giving the Nv233 an ­aggressive yet clean look. It also sits lower in the water compared with its Fe siblings, adding to its sleek, aggressive stance. The large Centurion badging toward the transom further sets it apart as something different and new. Watersports enthusiasts with a keen eye might see some similarities to the now-retired Supreme ZS232 of years past (­Centurion owns the Supreme brand), but the Nv233 is 100 percent new and 100 percent Centurion.

Of course, being built in the Centurion family means the Nv is ­constructed around the acclaimed Opti-V hull design, which offers 21 degrees of deadrise at the transom. This deeper-V design not only provides for a more comfortable ride in choppier waters, but it also makes it easier to be displaced by the ballast, which in turn kicks up sizable wakes and waves for riding fun. When it comes to ballast, the Nv233 packs a punch, with the total available weight adding up to a whopping 5,000 pounds. More than half of this total can be filled in less than 90 seconds if you opt for the ­available RAMFILL2 system when ordering yours.

To shape that displaced water into a fun riding surface, the Nv233 can be equipped with another of Centurion’s acclaimed systems: QuickSurf Pro. These transom-­mounted plates deploy at the push of a button and create solid wakesurfing waves that feature a clean, consistent face and a large pocket with plenty of push. The optional center-mounted Silent Stinger Wake Plate can be adjusted to change the size and shape of the wave—­allowing riders of all skill levels and styles to enjoy riding behind the Nv233—but it also incorporates the boat’s exhaust, keeping it underwater to reduce overall engine noise. The Silent Stinger Wake Plate also adjusts the size and shape of the wakeboarding wake and the Nv233’s running attitude. With a couple of clicks of the steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, the captain can quickly and easily make ­adjustments.

The helm is clean and simple, avoiding the clutter found aboard a lot of other boats. A wide-screen touchscreen offers the captain easy, intuitive control of all the boat’s systems. The new user interface is simple. From ballast and surf setups to lighting, navigation and more, it’s all right at your fingertips. Another nice feature is the new Wet Sounds head unit, just to the left of the steering wheel, for quick control of the tunes. The windshield doesn’t wrap all the way around, but that has advantages for when a captain needs to quickly get behind the wheel without having to walk around the tower to board the boat.

Roswell’s tried-and-true Battle Advance tower is standard on the Nv233, and it not only looks great with the new lines of the boat, but also offers versatility with an oversize ­Bimini overhead for added shade and ­comfort. For interior amenities, ­Centurion doesn’t skimp just to keep the cost of the Nv233 down. The same Spradling vinyl with a 17 mm topcoat found in the top Ri265 model will be found here. Stitching is strong, cushioning is supportive, and you’ll never have to worry about stepping on upholstery. To help you avoid it, though, ­Centurion has added a step into the rear bench when accessing the transom. Beneath all the seats, storage is plentiful for all the requisite gear needed for a day on the lake. For added comfort on cooler days, the Nv233 can also be equipped with extendable heater vents. ­Despite its lower profile, the wraparound seating is well below the gunwales, offering ­comfortable and secure seats for all on board.

To shop against the Nv233, buyers should take a look at the Moomba Mojo, ­another 23-footer that comes well-equipped at $123,910, and is known for its ease of use and solid performance. While the Mojo has less total ballast, it is rated to hold 17 passengers.

Read Next: Centurion Fe22

Whether you’re a buyer looking to move into the V-drive watersports market or you’re looking for high-end performance at a very approachable price, the Nv233 should be on your list. Centurion has done a terrific job of blending new stylings and creature comforts with the on-water performance for which it is known.

How We Tested

• Engine: Crusader 6.0L L96 409 hp/409 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2907 16″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 47 Crew Weight: 550 lb.

High Points

• Single screen and new interface makes the Nv233 easy to opeThe single screen and new interface make the Nv233 very easy to operate.
• Battery isolation and PDM systems are ­integrated into the glove box, so you don’t have to crawl into a hatch to find them.
• Transom lockers allow for convenient spots to put wet ropes and life jackets, and all underseating storage is Rhino-lined, adding a finished touch while helping dampen sound and vibration.

Low Point

• It lacks a convertible rear bench, which is standard in many of today’s ­wakeboats.

Pricing and Specs

Speed, Efficiency, Operation

The post Wakeboat Test: 2025 Centurion Nv233 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

An all-new design for 2025, the Nv233 features eye-catching hullside effects. 

The spacious Nv233 sits at the sweet spot of performance and functionality. It’s a sleek-looking boat, thanks to a lower profile and stance in the water compared to the Fe and Ri lines. Along with the aforementioned hullside shapes, the large Centurion badging toward the transom further sets this boat apart. 

Riding the acclaimed Opti-V hull, the Nv233 offers 21 degrees of transom deadrise. This deeper V makes it easier to be displaced by the ballast (5,000 pounds available), which in turn makes it easier to kick up sizable wakes and waves. The deep deadrise also delivers a smoother ride in choppy water. Opt for the Ramfill 2 system and fill more than half of the total ballast in under 90 seconds. 

Equip the Nv233 with Centurion’s QuickSurf Pro system to create solid wakesurfing waves with a clean, consistent face, large pocket, and plenty of push. The center-mounted Silent Stinger Wake Plate adjusts to change the size and shape of waves for riders of all skill levels and styles. It also keeps engine exhaust underwater and reduces engine noise.

At the helm, the Nv233 features a wide-screen touchscreen for easy systems control. Use its intuitive interface to operate ballast, surf settings, lighting and more. Centurion’s signature steering-wheel paddle shifters allow instant adjustment of the Stinger Wake Plate and cruise-control speed without the need to take your eyes off the water. The Wet Sounds head makes for quick control of the tunes. 

The Nv233 comes with Roswell’s Battle Advance tower. This looks great, offers versatility, and keeps a Bimini top overhead for shade. More comfort comes from the plush Spradling vinyl upholstery. The Nv233 can even be equipped with heaters for cool days. Despite its lower profile, the wraparound seating is well below the ­gunwales, offering a secure seat for all.

If you’re a buyer looking to move into the V-drive watersports market or for high-end performance at a very approachable price, the Nv233 should be on your list.

High Points

• Battery and PDM systems are in the glove box, so you don’t have to crawl into a hatch to find them.
• Transom lockers conveniently stow wet ropes and life jackets.
• Single screen  and new interface makes the Nv233 easy to operate for riders and captains.

How We Tested

• Engine: Crusader 6.0L L96 409 hp/409 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2907 16″ x 15″
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 47 Crew Weight: 550 lb.

Pricing and Specs

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Highlighted by Roswell’s Predator Power Tower, the 2025 Centurion Ri265 looks awesome and offers functionality not found aboard other big watersports boats. Push a button and the scissor-hinged PPT lowers while keeping the Bimini top perfectly flat. This allows for extra shade and protection from a shower, and riders can wakesurf or wakeboard from any position the tower is in. Additionally, the Ri265 can be trailered without having to remove or stow the Bimini top.

Centurion also worked with Roswell to create a new sound system. Called Surround-­Fire, it comes with 16 speakers. Six of those are mounted to the tower. Surround-­Fire is a full-on audio experience that gets very loud but maintains clarity and consistency, even at high volumes. 

The big 26-foot Yacht Certified Ri265 accommodates large crews and swallows a ton of gear. Integrated board racks on the tower and Bimini hold plenty, along with a transom board locker. Hinged seating conceals Rhino-lined stowage. The seating is also customizable, thanks to the sliding rear bench and insertable backrests, as well as flip-up backrests on both sides of the wraparound lounge. The deep seating, well-padded Spradling cushions and Centurion’s 21-degree deadrise ­Opti-V hull combine to ensure riding in comfort. Even the sun pad over the engine compartment features pop-up backrests.

At the helm, we found new 14-inch side-by-side displays and an all-new user interface for controlling the Ri265’s systems. The displays are bright and easy to navigate. Thanks to the Ramfill system, most of the 5,850 pounds of available ­ballast can be filled in 90 seconds. The helm also features a unit near the steering wheel for quick, easy audio control, a wireless phone-charging cradle, and Centurion’s sport-shifter paddles for instant adjustments to the Stinger Wake Plate and the cruise-control speed. A detail we loved are the air vents built into the windshield. 

From the intuitive menus and wake-riding presets to the layout and functionality to optional systems like a stern thruster and boarding ladder, you can order the Ri265 exactly how you want it for living your best life out on the water.

High Points

• QuickLaunch and  QuickSurf plates get the Ri265 on plane with minimal bow rise.
• Two trash cans and integrated cooler storage in the floor. 
• Two-tone stitching available on Warrior Edition Ri265 models.
• Air vents built into the windshield.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM ZZ8S 6.2L/665 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 3077 17″ x 15.5″
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 92 gal. Crew Weight: 550 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2025 Centurion Ri265 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Garrett Cortese and Amy Mauzy give an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the Centurion and Supreme factory in Merced, California. See the entire process for how these boats are built and explore the similarities and differences between the two brands.

The post 2024 Centurion and Supreme Factory Tour appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Centurion’s all-new Fe22 was designed and developed to be more affordable while still ­offering the wakesurfing and wakeboarding performance for which Centurion has become famous.

Centurion markets the Fe22 with a Surf Ready package that offers a lot of performance technologies and creature comforts, with an advertised price of $139,995. This consists of Centurion’s QuickSurf Pro system, Ramfill 2 ballast system (plus extra ballast, for a total of 4,350 pounds), a Roswell Battle Advance tower with board racks and Bimini top, and more. The Fe22’s angular style lines and signature badging give it a look that fits right in with its Centurion siblings. It also inherits the acclaimed Opti-V Hull—a deep-V-shaped design that creates added water displacement and a smoother, more comfortable ride in windblown chop.

What makes the Fe22 unique as a price-point model in the ­Centurion line is that you don’t immediately see it or feel it upon stepping inside, and you definitely don’t notice it when it comes to the wakesurfing performance. While many other entry-level boats can feel like stripped-down versions of preexisting models or molds (and they often are), the Fe22 does not. Like other Centurion models, it features a comfortable, sturdy Spradling vinyl interior with plenty of padding both in the seats and bolsters. The only knock might be the lack of a reversible rear seat for better watching the action on the water. It’s common in many V-drives at all price points but is by no means a deal-breaker for the Fe22. Flooring throughout is GatorStep, and even the storage areas underneath the seats are Rhino-lined, giving this boat a nice, finished feel, even in the unseen areas. The ­22-footer is rated for 13 passengers and has a listed dry weight of 5,100 pounds, so add in some friends and the 4,350 pounds of ballast, and you’re ready to create serious wakes and waves for riders of all levels.

The QuickSurf Pro, Ramfill and ballast systems are all easily controlled from the large touchscreen at the helm. While other ­Centurion models feature dual side-by-side touchscreens, the Fe22 is limited to the single, but it doesn’t take away from any functionality or aesthetics. QuickSurf Pro features port and starboard plates mounted at the transom for surfing either side (and quickly being able to switch on the fly), while the center-mounted plate helps adjust the characteristics of the wakes and waves. The ability to fine-tune waves through ballast and plate adjustments means the Fe22 is capable of serving ­mellow waves for new riders or steeper, “lippier” ones preferred by advanced riders. At 22 feet, the Fe22 is easier to displace than its bigger Centurion siblings, and with all that ballast, it quickly kicks out pro-level wakes and waves.

The captain is treated to a swiveling ­Cobra Racing seat that is as comfortable as it is stylish. To the left of the steering wheel there is a stereo head unit and a wireless phone-charger cradle. Behind the steering wheel are dual paddle-shifter controls, which control the center wake plate and the speed control for on-the-fly adjustments. An all-new windshield designed to flow with the lines of the Fe22 wraps the cockpit in style. In the floor of the walk-through is a convenient built-in cooler, and above is a hatch to a trash bin integrated into the storage behind the OB seat. The Roswell tower integrates seamlessly with the boat, and comes in white or black colorways, with side panels that can be upgraded to a custom color of your choosing. With the Surf Ready package, the tower is equipped with two WetSounds speakers, which complement the seven additional speakers (including a subwoofer) throughout the interior.

Read Next: Centurion Ri265

For power, a 6L 409 hp PCM Crusader comes standard, and provides plenty of giddy-up to get on plane, especially when the QuickLaunch system is engaged, which utilizes the surf plates to assist with planing while making bow rise almost nonexistent. Accessing the swim platform is both easy and convenient, thanks to a transom walk-through and a step pad built into the rear bench. This keeps foot traffic off the upholstery—always a plus. At the transom, a large rear locker conveniently stows several boards and all the requisite gear, but it also is upgradable to hold additional ballast.

In terms of shopping, buyers will want to look at the Moomba Craz ($116,300 well-equipped), a fellow 22-footer with a lot of similar specs and options, including 4,500 pounds of ballast and a 70-gallon tank. The Craz also offers a passenger rating of 16.

As buyers in the watersports market have become inundated with bigger boats with price tags to match, it’s refreshing for Centurion to create the Fe22 with the sole purpose of making it more affordable relative to the market while still delivering great performance. This model not only does that, but top to bottom, it also is a good-looking, well-built, comfortable and really fun boat. For buyers who don’t need every bell and whistle, or who don’t need anything more than 22 feet, the Fe22 should make the shortlist. 

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM Crusader 6L 409 hp
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 2829 16.5″ x 15″ 4-blade nibral
• Gear Ratio: 1.72:1 Fuel Load: 70 gal. Crew Weight: 350 lb.

High Points

• Comfort—the Fe22 feels much bigger than other similarly sized boats, plus the interior materials are top-notch.
• Ease of use—the onboard systems make getting out and riding a breeze.
• As part of the Surf Ready package, the Champ sound system, with its nine speakers, sounds great everywhere in the boat.

Low Points

• The Fe22 lacks customizable seating often found in many other V-drive wakeboats.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Centurion Fe22 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

As demand for boats in the ever-competitive watersports market has risen over the past decade, manufacturers have worked hard to continually push the capabilities of the boats being made, be it through new technologies, design features, overall size or numerous other factors. Of course, this generally comes with a cost: higher prices for the consumer. For award-winning manufacturer Centurion, a new opportunity presented itself, and the company approached solving it in a unique way.

The Fe22 is an all-new model from Centurion, designed from bottom up to be a more cost-effective option that can live up to the Centurion name and performance characteristics. The calling card of this new model revolves around its Surf Ready package, with an advertised price of $139,995. While this price does not include freight, dealer fees or taxes, it gets the buyer a lot of Centurion’s acclaimed features, including the QuickSurf Pro system, the Silent Stinger Wake Plate, a whopping 4,350 pounds of ballast—including the Ramfill² system—and the Opti-V hull design. The price also includes Roswell’s Battle Advance tower, board racks and Bimini, a nine-speaker Wet Sounds system, 2-layer GatorStep nonskid flooring throughout, Spradling vinyl interior, a large HD touchscreen helm display, an all-new battery management and PDM breaker system in the glove box, a tandem-axle trailer, and a lot more.

An Interesting Challenge

While many manufacturers over the years have offered a variety of different entry-level types of boats, most have been a retooled or stripped-down version of an existing model or hull mold—and oftentimes, the advertised prices don’t include many necessary essentials to actually wakesurf. Many of those offerings often felt cheap, especially when compared with their bigger siblings in the lineup. Rather than take that route, which buyers are often wary of because it can feel disingenuous, Centurion set out to build a brand-new boat designed to hit as many of the marks as possible in terms of what buyers might want and need, while keeping the price realistic and honest.

“We found ourselves (Centurion) in an interesting spot. As we continued to evolve our lineup, we ended up pricing out customers from just four or five years ago,” says VP of Marketing & Brand Direction Amy Mauzy. “We had customers who loved their 2019 Fi21s, or other models, and wanted to upgrade to a new Centurion but couldn’t for several reasons. One, we no longer had a 21- or 22-foot boat in the lineup, and two, price. So we did the opposite of what we and most brands normally do when creating a lower-price-point boat: We treated it like we were building a brand-new flagship.”

A lot of time and effort was put into maximizing what was possible with the Fe22, while also keeping the price approachable to many potential buyers. The result is a price-point boat that doesn’t feel at all bare-bones.

Read Next: 2024 Centurion Boats

Contact a dealer today for more details on trims, packages and other available options.

So, What’s Missing?

With that, the obvious question is, what’s missing? When compared with other models in the Centurion line, buyers of the Fe22 will find fewer options and amenities; there is no customizable seating with a sliding rear bench or pop-up backrests, the Roswell Battle Advance tower is the only one available, same for the single touchscreen (all other Centurions feature dual-touchscreen displays at the helm). The standard engine in the Fe22 is also different than other Centurion models: a 6.0-liter, 409 hp Crusader as opposed to a ZZ5 400 hp PCM. Although it should be noted, Crusader and PCM are both subsidiaries of Pleasurecraft Engine Group, owned by Correct Craft, which also owns Centurion. The Crusader is just as powerful as its PCM counterparts, but it comes with a 600-hour warranty, while the PCMs offer 1,000.

As more and more watersports boats approach and surpass the $200,000 mark, though, the Fe22 bucks the trend, with the potential to be a trendsetter. In terms of a solid, stylish, comfortable boat with plenty of features and creature comforts that puts out high-end wakes and waves and allows everybody to have fun on the water? The Fe22 delivers in spades.

Pricing and Specs

The post Birth of a Surf Boat appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Centurion’s new Predator Power Tower (PPT), available on all Ri models, is shown here on the Ri265 with the Warrior Edition Package. It is designed and built by Roswell Marine and unlike any tower ever produced. Be sure to see the Ri265 and the PPT. 

Push a button and the PPT’s smart  linear actuator drops the tower while keeping the 9-foot Bimini top perfectly flat. Want more shade on an ­ultra-sunny day? Caught in a downpour or a low bridge? This tower solves those with ease. The tower can position anywhere between all the way up and down, and it can be used for wakesurfing and wakeboarding as well. The Bimini’s unique, rigid exoskeleton frame means no adjusting when raising or lowering, and no stowing it when trailering. 

Wakes and waves? Those put up by the Ri265 proved powerful, beautiful, and easily adjusted for a variety of skill levels and preferences thanks to the QuickSurf Pro system and Silent Stinger Wake Plate. At 6,400 pounds, with the ability to take on 5,850 pounds of ballast, the Ri265 displaces a ton of water. The QuickSurf Pro plates work together to shape that displaced water into clean, rideable surfaces with maximum push and a huge pocket for wakesurfers. The ­Silent Stinger Wake Plate makes the wave steeper and taller or longer and mellower. Control the Ri265’s systems easily via the 12-inch Touch Vision Screens. 

The Ri265’s deep gunwales and ­Spradling vinyl interior with supple padding create comfort. Our test boat featured Centurion’s Warrior Edition Package, which boasts cool topography-inspired stitching. Seating also features a multiposition sliding rear bench,  flip-up stadium seat to port, an enclosure that houses a trash chute to starboard, and pop-up backrests integrated into the sun-pad area above the engine.

With its killer wakes and waves, the ultra-versatile (and cool) newly available Predator Power Tower and a Yacht Certified rating from the NMMA, the Ri265 can take potential buyers’ time on the water to new levels of fun with all their family and friends. 

High Points

• We can’t say enough about the Predator Power Tower.
• QuickLaunch gets the big Ri265 on plane with minimal bow rise, even with full ballast and crew.
• All-new windshield looks great.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM ZZ6 6.2L 390 hp/465 ft.-lb.
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 3077 17″ x 15.5″
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 92 gal. Crew Weight: 360 lb.

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Centurion Ri265 Warrior Edition Package appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Over the years, Centurion’s Ri230 has pulled numerous world championships, creating a platform like no other for the wakesurf industry. For 2024, the Ri230 offers new features that continue to enhance this boat’s legacy. The looks of the Ri230 are as clean as ever, but can get as bold as the buyer desires. Our test boat featured Centurion’s special Salute 2 Service options, which include custom graphics, GatorStep flooring patterns and more. Parts of the proceeds from S2S-equipped Centurion boats go to charities to support wounded veterans. Kudos!

Pro-level wakes and waves come courtesy of Centurion’s acclaimed ­Opti-V hull design, which incorporates 20 degrees of transom deadrise. The deeper V allows the stern to sit deeper in the water in order to displace and shape the symmetrical wakes and waves. With 5,400 pounds of ballast available in seven uniquely placed zones, the Ri230 is capable of producing waves for beginners to world champs alike. The automated Quicksurf Pro system shapes the waves perfectly, giving them a clean face with a ton of push. The plates can be micro-tuned to dial in the wave’s characteristics for each rider. Once a rider finds the settings they prefer, they can save them to a profile for quick access at the helm.

The Centurion Ri230 comes with the Revo Side by Side 12-by-12-inch Touch Vision HD Dash. All of the boat’s functions, from Quicksurf Pro to ballast, lighting, and onboard cameras at the bow and transom, are quickly and easily accessed and adjusted with a couple of fingertip taps. New for 2024 is a small head-unit control mounted near the throttle. This makes it easy for the captain to quickly adjust or turn off the boat’s audio if needed.

Comfort abounds throughout the Ri230, thanks to Centurion’s ­Spradling vinyl interior, which is also quite ­durable. New Ri stitching patterns accentuate the look, while pop-up backrests on the port and starboard sides of the wraparound seat can line up with the convertible rear bench that slides inward. These rear-­facing options are great for watching all the action on the epic endless waves.

High Points

• QuickLaunch offers quick planing with minimal bow rise.
• Drop Zone power tower  lowers for bridges or garage storage.
• Bow and stern cameras ease trailering and picking up riders.

How We Tested

• Engine: PCM ZZ6 6.2L/465 lb.-ft. torque
• Drive/Prop: V-drive/Acme 3077 17″ x 15.5″
• Gear Ratio: 2.00:1 Fuel Load: 81 gal. Crew Weight: 360

Pricing and Specs

The post 2024 Centurion Ri230 appeared first on Wakeboarding Mag.

Given the growth of the inboard watersports boat market over the last decade, it should come as no surprise that the trend of offering bigger and bigger models has only—for lack of a better term—grown. Manufacturers such as Centurion, Malibu and MasterCraft all offer models 26 feet or longer. But does bigger always mean better? Not necessarily. Fortunately, for prospective buyers who need something smaller, there are still plenty of options to choose from. Most brands offer at least one model 21 feet or under, and several offer multiple. While the advantages of larger boats specific to wakeboarding and wakesurfing are fairly obvious, such as more room for friends, larger ballast systems for superior waves, etc., there are a lot of benefits to smaller boats.

The most obvious advantage is the purchase price. Generally, a 20- to 22-foot model is going to cost significantly less than a 25- to 26-footer. The second biggest economic advantage for smaller boats is fuel efficiency. Less fuel consumed means more wallet savings. Plus, if you’re a boater who needs to trailer your boat to and from your favorite riding spots, a smaller boat means better gas mileage for the tow vehicle (and quite possibly a cheaper ­vehicle that doesn’t require such a large tow rating).

Along with being easier to tow, smaller boat models are much easier to store, especially if you need to keep one in a standard-size garage. Every model listed in this roundup features a collapsible tower, making it ideal for storing in tighter places. The ­smaller size also presents an advantage when it comes to handling. A 20-foot boat is going to be easier to maneuver than its ­26-foot sibling. MasterCraft’s XT20 is 6 feet, 5 inches shorter, 2 inches narrower and 1,800 pounds lighter than the Yacht ­Certified X26, so you know it’s going to be less demanding to handle in tight quarters.

With all the advancements in hull design and wave-shaping technologies, the smaller boats in the watersports segment are able to produce better wakes and waves than ever before. In years past, buyers who wanted clean surf waves with plenty of push for all the riders in their family often had to go for the bigger boats that displaced more water. In 2024, that’s not always the case. All the boats in our list can create waves that cater to all types of different riding levels and styles. You won’t be able to bring 16 or 17 of your closest friends; however, you can have a blast on the water with everybody you can bring, and you’ll likely save some money while doing it.

Here’s a look at nine of the best wakeboats under 21 feet.

MasterCraft XT20

The MasterCraft XT20 has been redesigned from the bottom up and MasterCraft have put a lot of time into making sure this 20-footer packs a punch more in line with bigger models. Equipped with the revamped SurfStar system, the XT20 can push out sizeable waves with plenty of push, along with clean, symmetrical wakeboarding wakes. The convertible rear bench and transom lounge seats–built with MasterCraft’s triple density foam and ultra-comfy vinyl–ensure everybody onboard will be comfortable. The XT line is one of the most customizable in the market, so buyers can opt to go more minimal with a new build, or take this 20-footer to the next level with all the bells and whistles MasterCraft have to offer.

Pricing and Specs

Heyday H20

All-new for 2023, the Heyday H20 builds on the success of its bigger sibling, the H22. Heyday has carved out a solid spot in the marketplace by offering great performance at a very affordable price. The H20 is the only boat in this lineup without an automated surf system, but it doesn’t necessarily need one – it still puts up a solid wave, and that can be added to with an optional suction-cup-mounted wave shaper device. Two features we love about the H20: the rear-facing transom seats are an awesome way to watch the action on the water–no other manufacturer has seats like these, and the power-folding swimstep. This makes the H20 even easier to store in a garage or other tight spaces.

Pricing and Specs

Moomba Mondo

Moomba have consistently upgraded the performance and capabilities of their models, allowing buyers to get solid performance at a more budget-friendly price. The 20-foot Moomba Mondo is the smallest in the lineup, but thanks to an impressive 3,700 pounds of ballast, the Swell Surf System plates and AutoWake technology, it kicks up seriously fun wakes and waves. AutoWake is key for the Mondo, as the system utilizes onboard sensors to monitor the boat’s running attitude. It will automatically adjust the Swell Surf System and ballast as needed in order to keep the wake or wave in an optimal spot. This takes a ton of the guesswork out of setting the Mondo up, which is great for new users or veteran riders alike, because it means less time trying to figure things out and more time on the water having fun.

Pricing and Specs

Axis A20

The Axis A20 has been a staple in the Axis lineup since the brand’s inception, and it saw a major refresh in 2020. An improved running surface, combined with a more comfortable ride make the A20 a great option for families getting into the watersports scene. The ease-of-use of the Surf Gate and Power Wedge III systems for wakeboarding and wakesurfing can’t be overstated. The A20’s versatility make it great for riders just learning to get up or those looking to add more advanced tricks to their bag.

Pricing and Specs

Centurion Fi21

The Centurion Fi21 is the smallest boat in the Centurion line, but it still prides itself on the wave-making performance Centurion is known for. At 5,100 pounds, the Fi21 is the heaviest in this group (tied with the MasterCraft XT20), and combined with its whopping 4,750 pounds of ballast (by far the most in this group), it can displace a lot of water. Featuring Centurion’s acclaimed Opti-V hull for a running surface, that means riders are getting clean, powerful waves with a large pocket and plenty of push. The QuickSurf Pro plates at the transom ensure the waves stay consistent and fun, while allowing for limitless customization for riders of any skill level.

Pricing and Specs

Malibu 21 LX

Introduced in 2022, the Malibu 21 LX is a model that takes influence from several previous Malibu models and molds them into a multisport, family-fun machine. The hybrid bow is one easy-to-spot representation of this–the 21 LX has lines similar to a traditional bow, but the interior area is shaped like a bigger pickle fork bow, allowing more room for passengers. Buyers can choose between two hull types, Wake Plus and Diamond. Wake Plus caters to those looking more toward wakesurfing and wakeboarding performance, while Diamond is geared toward ultimate versatility for users who also want to water ski more aggressively behind the 21 LX. As for the wakes and waves, the combination of Surf Gate and Power Wedge III ensure the 21 LX can be quickly and easily tweaked for all different levels and styles of riding. Opt in for the Surf Band remote and the rider can control those systems from their wrist while riding.

Pricing and Specs

Nautique GS20

The Nautique GS20 underwent a complete redesign and is all-new for 2023. Touted as a true crossover performer, it can pull a fun wakesurf session with solid waves and then in a matter of minutes tow a skier through the slalom course. The GS20’s hull takes design cues from its Ski Nautique and Super Air Nautique G23 cousins, allowing it to perform better than you’d think in both extremes for a 20-foot V-drive. With Nautique Surf System plates tooled into the transom of the boat, the GS20 can quickly kick up solid wakesurfing waves that can be fine-tuned for beginners to more advanced riders. NSS plates are also much smaller than other surf system plates on the market, allowing for quick transfers from side to side when wakesurfing.

Pricing and Specs

Supra SR

The 20′ 11” Supra SR offers the sporty, aggressive looks Supra have become known for, with all-around performance that caters to first-timers and more advanced riders alike. At just under 21-feet, the SR is rated for 14 passengers, more than any other boat on this list, and if you load up with friends, along with the 3,300 pounds of ballast and Supra’s Swell Surf System, you’re going to get some endless waves that are a ton of fun. Supra’s patented AutoWake system comes standard, making the on-water experience that much easier and more fun for both the rider and the captain.

Pricing and Specs

Tigé 20 RZX

Despite being 20 feet on the dot, Tigé’s pickle-fork shaped 20RZX offers room for 13 while holding up to 3,000 pounds of ballast. With just one screen at the helm–the vertically-mounted Clear Screen–the 20 RZX keeps things simple and clean. The single screen on the right of the steering wheel means the captain has a clean line of sight and minimal distractions, while the 20 RZX’s systems can still be quickly and easily controlled with a couple finger taps. Preset settings for surfing, wakeboarding and water skiing make the 20 RZX a breeze to set up and start riding, and the TAPS 3T surf plates allow for easy customization of the waves for a variety of riders.

Pricing and Specs

Three More to Check Out!

• ATX 20 Type-S
• Malibu 20 VTX
• MasterCraft NXT20

Advantages of Smaller Watersports Boats

While the advantages of larger boats specific to wakeboarding and wakesurfing are fairly obvious – more room for passengers, larger ballast systems for bigger waves, etc. – there are a lot benefits to smaller boats.

• Price: The most obvious advantage is the purchase price. A 20-to-22-foot model is generally going to cost significantly less than a 25-26-footer.
• Fuel Efficiency: The second biggest economic advantage for smaller boats is fuel efficiency. Less fuel consumed means more savings in the wallet. Plus, if you’re a boater who needs to trailer your boat to/from your favorite riding spots, a smaller boat means better gas mileage for the vehicle you’re towing with (and quite possibly a cheaper vehicle that doesn’t require such a large tow rating).
• Easier Towing & Storage: Along with being easier to tow, smaller boat models are much easier to store, especially if you need to keep one in a standard-sized garage. Every model listed in this roundup features a collapsible tower, making them ideal for storing in tighter places. The smaller size also presents an advantage when it comes to handling. A 20-foot boat is going to be easier to maneuver than its 26-foot sibling. MasterCraft’s brand-new XT20 is 6 feet 5 inches shorter, 2 inches narrower and 1,800 pounds lighter than the yacht-certified X26, so you know it’s going to be less cumbersome to handle in tight quarters.
• Clean Wake & Waves: With all the advancements in hull design and wave-shaping technologies, the smaller boats in the watersports segment are able to produce better wakes and waves than ever before. In years past, buyers who really wanted clean surf waves with plenty of push for all the riders in their family often times had to go for the bigger boats that displaced more water. In 2023, that’s no longer the case. All the boats in the list below can create waves that cater to all types of different riding levels and styles. While you won’t be able to bring 16 or 17 of your closest friends with you, you will still be able to have a blast on the water with everybody you can bring, and you’ll likely save some money while doing it.

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