Congratulations on deciding to purchase your first Malibu Boat! You have made the right decision. As the world's largest wakeboat manufacturer, a boat from Malibu Boats is designed to deliver years of fun and memories with an unforgettable on the water experience, every time.
Now that you have decided to find your Truth on the Water and become part of the Malibu boats family, it is time to choose the right model. In this article, we walk you through the 5 most important things you must consider when deciding on the best Malibu Boats model for your needs.
1. Choose the Right Size Boat For Your Needs
Buying the right size boat for your needs is crucial, and for that reason it is number one on our list. In choosing the right size, there are several factors you should consider, including: Passengers/crew capacity, trailerability, storage, and cost of ownership.
Passenger/Crew capacity
How many people will typically be joining you on the boat? A larger crew will need more seating and space onboard. For that reason, your boat needs to be big enough to safely and comfortably accommodate all of the people who will usually be on board.
For larger family or friend groups, consider one of the bigger Malibu models such as the luxurious M242 (17 people), the Wakesetter 26 LSV (18 people) or the Wakesetter 25 LSV (18 people). Alternatively, you can comfortably accommodate smaller crews on boats like the all-new Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ and the Wakesetter 21 LX.
Trailering & Storage
If you are planning to trailer your boat to and from your surf spot then the trailerability of the boat you buy is a crucial factor. How far you are trailering, your tow vehicle's capacity, and boat storage options are important factors to consider. The most important of all of these, however, is ensuring that your towing vehicle is capable of towing the boat.
Of course, regardless of whether you are planning to trailer your boat, you must verify that your boat will fit in your storage area, particularly in locations like marinas, dry storage, and garages.
3. Model-Specific Options
Has a specific feature on one of our boats caught your eye? Several of our interior options are model-specific, so if there is a particular interior feature that you really want, then that boat will need to be on your shortlist.
One example of a model-specific option is our Max-Relax™ Sundeck Loungers. Found only on our boats of 24' and up, these seats easily convert between rear and forward facing loungers, so guests can enjoy the scenery either ahead of or behind the boat.
Another is our 360° Multi-Camera System. This exciting new innovation was introduced on all new 2025 model-year M-Series Malibu Boats, so if you really want this functionality, you will currently be limited that series of boats.
4. Decide What Watersport You Prefer
Your choice of Malibu Boat will also be determined by which watersport you prefer to do.
If you specifically only intend to do waterskiing, then you need look no further than the most respected ski boat in the world: The Malibu Response TXi. Purpose-built for amateur and competitive ski enthusiasts alike, its T-Cut Diamond Hull™ has proved its performance in every arena.
Similarly, if you are looking to surf, wakeboard or waterski then you can consider a crossover model such as the Wakesetter 21 LX or the Wakesetter 22 LSV. These two models are designed to offer the best of both worlds. Both of these boats can be ordered with either our legendary Wake Plus™ Hull for unrivaled wakes and waves, or the Malibu Diamond™ Hull, which delivers a combination of wake, surf and ski performance.
Regardless of which boat you choose, you can be sure that it will have all the luxurious amenities, comforts and build quality that you expect of a Malibu boat.
5. What Customization Options Do You Prefer?
With a huge range of gelcoat, upholstery and decking colors on offer, you truly can customize your Malibu to match your specific personal preferences. Whether you want its color scheme to match your tow vehicle, your sports team or simply your personality, Malibu makes it fun and easy to build a boat with colors that truly reflect you.
Get started building your Malibu by heading over to our Build a Boat tool.
Conclusion
Regardless of which Malibu model you choose to take home with you, every boat in the Malibu Boats line-up is designed to impress and thrill you.
Experience the leader in wakeboat innovation. Contact your nearest authorized Malibu Boats dealer and find your Truth on the Water™.