Great review, Chantel. Still delivering value to boat shoppers! Impressive knowledge on both boats. I’m a Nautique guy but with a young family, the extra storage and adjustable wake on the Malibu, I’m interested in learning more. Great job and thanks! 👍🏻
Great pragmatic video - would have been great to have some engine comparisons and warranty comparisons. Also - a big factor, how does the dealer meet the buyers unique service requirements. Example - is on water service available for owners that seldom trailer, etc.
Nice review. Would love to see an “on water” comparison of the Malibu MXZ 23 and the Supra SL. It’s hard to find anything on the Malibu out there since it is a newer model, but it’s a nice looking boat.
Luckily I have seen all the boats on the water at the same time. Basically every weekend at lake james. On the water looks for me goes this way. 1. Centurion Ri/mastercraft x24 as massive as these two boats are the look absolutely awesome on water. Best body lines to me. 2. Nautique 3. Supra 4. Malibu 5. Centurion fi 6. Moomba 7. Axis
WOW,! Excited to find you and love your channel and vids 😀 Considering the Malibu 24MXZ and M235. Would love your opinion on these models. Also is Malibu fuel economy as bad as the centurion / board co videos want you to believe? Thx!!!
Thanks, Jason! I'm excited you are watching!! Both the 24MXZ and the M235 would be AMAZING. The reason I would pick one over the other is less to do with performance and wake (you'd be stoked with either one) and more to do with options and size. The M235 comes LOADED and there are very few options that can be omitted. There are also options on that boat that aren't even available on any other model. The 24MXZ would give you the ability to pick and choose exactly how to build it, and it gives you a bit more space. ------For the fuel economy question, short answer: NO. The videos I've seen on that have been pretty biased, using an older model Malibu, with a different engine that what is available now. If there is a difference in fuel economy, it's not as big of a deal as they are claiming. Good luck with the new boat purchase!
G23 vs Malibu MXZ is a better comparison. MXZ throws a completely different wake for wake boarding than the LSV. Both phenomenal boats(lsv and MXZ) Ive wakeboarded and surfed off both 2018 models. Also have done both behind a G23. Nothing beats a malibu to me.
I agree, the MXZs are awesome and the layout is more similar to the G23 than the 23LSV is. Two of our best-selling boats are the 23LSV and the G23 - they are the ones I get asked about most often, so I decided to compare those two!
We like the LSV23's because of their versatility. We get the diamond hull because some of us ski and it seems to do everything else pretty well. It is a better boat to drive around. The G23 is a beast and super luxurious but less versatile. We have a 2012 LSV and we are about to order a 2021 model. We like the new updates.
Demo both boats before buying. We own a G23 and it’s killer. Used a 2019 Malibu for a weekend this year and the biggest difference I notice was how differently they drove. I was disappointed with how the Malibu drove in comparison to the G23, especially when surfing or if the ballast tanks are full. I do agree that the surf wave is also more aggressive on the G23, and the Malibu is more user friendly and easier to start on. Just demo them, totally worth it.
I always wondered why they had roll bars. Just don’t think they really do much other than hold speakers cause in a roll over it’s not going to float. Glad to hear they are optional.
Hi Chantel, really glad I found your site and your reviews. Very helpful! This one is similar to my situation as we're looking at the less expensive NAS 230 and it's comparable in price to the LSV (actually can get a special from dealer that puts the 230 at 10K less than LSV, so yay!). Might you share your thoughts on the 2020 NAS 230 v 2020 Malibu 23LSV? I looked at forums for each and seems some critiques about the wave with the 230 so that makes me pause. Also looking ahead at resale, imagine the LSV will sell easier/hold value more? We're a fam of 6 beginner wake surfers (elementary to high schoolers) so simple and effective changes are ideal.
Hello! Between those two, I like the 23LSV better. The wake is bigger and more customizable, it has been recently redesigned, so it has some more modern features than the SAN 230 (like no carpet in the storage compartments!), and you are right about the resale, people are ALWAYS looking for the 23LSV pre-owned. You'll definitely talk to people who prefer the 230, but I like the LSV!
@@ChantelBoats Hey Chantel - thanks so much for sharing your insights. Our fam would be beginner wake surfers, so not sure how long it will take until we can appreciate that "bigger wave" difference you say that the Malibu would give ... would you say within the first year or not likely? I looked at the #s for ballast and can imagine it will be tuff for the NAS to overcome the difference. MB weighs 500 more dry, then add in 4200 lbs stock ballast tanks. then the Wedge gives 1000-1500 lbs. so now you're at 5200 to 5700 lbs of ballast. The NAS has 2100 lbs factory ballast that can upgrade with 1500 in fat sacks for 3600. I understand the dealer recommends adding lead bags to the bow (about 300 lbs) which totals 3900. So 3900 vs 5200-5700. That's a lot of difference. Too bad Nautique doesn't make the buyer get more after factory weight to have heavier options. You're the first to point out the carpet difference. I didn't notice that - wow. What are the other "more modern features" the LSV has over the 230? Thanks so much!!
@@jheileman2735 so even with adding the extra ballast (fat sacks and lead) to the NAS 230 so it's at 3900 lbs of ballast, would you still prefer the Malibu 23 LSV? The bow sitting length in the 230 is so much longer than any other 23 I've sat in and being able to fully stretch out my legs even slouch (as a 6'2 guy) is such a relaxing way to chill up there.
I definitely agree on the Nautique craftsmanship. They build a BEAUTIFUL boat!! The GS24 is definitely going to give you a much more enjoyable ski wake. Not quite as good as the 22 and 20 foot versions, but WAY better than the G Series. The surf wake is a little bit different on that boat where adding more weight isn't always better. It can start to wash out the wake and make it harder to surf. To me, the GS Series is great if skiing is very important to you and you are okay having a not-quite G Series level of surf wake/wakeboard wake.
I have a 2019 Axis A22. The one thing I don’t like about it is that none of the seat tops have hinges like the Malibu. Do you know of anyone who has retrofitted an Axis with Malibu type seat storage hinges? Especially the cooler seat.
I’m not lying I bought the Malibu and I recommend it because it is for families but if you want to go pro go with the g23 but the Malibu does great it will let you go pro but it isn’t as good as the g23 and if you like to wakeboard go with the Malibu
@@watchyouare You know, I am really digging what Supra is doing right now. Had a chance to tour the factory a couple weeks ago and see the new 2020 models, super impressive. The quality is amazing, features on the boat are well thought out and make sense for how people boat. Definitely worth checking out.
Awesome video! Question: Our family will probably spend 80% skiing and tubing, then transition into wake boarding(never done it before)....... Do I hear you telling me Malibu?
If you'll be skiing, between these two boats, definitely Malibu! But if you like the look and feel of the Nautique better, the GS series would work well for you. Check out the video I did of the GS22 - it'll give you an idea of the differences.
Definitely the Malibu for skiing and tubing especially because if you guys want to learn how to wake surf the nantique will be harder to learn on because it has such a powerful wake
Chantel - I'm torn between Nautique and Malibu surf systems. Which do you think is the biggest, cleanest wake? For G23 vs 23LSV and G25 vs 25LSV? Thanks!
Hi! The systems work in a very similar way, but have a different effect. The Nautique wake seems to be shorter, steeper, and more powerful, while the Malibu wake is huge and long (due to how much longer Surf Gate delays the water). My favorite wake out of those four boats is the 25LSV. If you go bigger, that one for sure. If you go with a 23 footer, I would try to surf behind both boats. I prefer the 23LSV wake, but I know a lot of people love the G23, so it comes down to preference! If you are shopping new, any dealer should be stoked to take you out and let you try it!
Chantel this is a big help. Between the 25lsv and g25 what do you think is best overall boat? Power, quality, electronics, innovation, etc? It seems hard to compare all the different factors in a quick ride. I've spent considerable time in the g25 but not the lsv yet. Thanks for your help!
For sure! Power, it would depend on the motor - the M6Di or the H6 would both be fuel efficient, but less power than the supercharged. Seems like the power is similar between the two brands though. Quality, both are very well built, but I think the Nautique has a little more attention to details with things like stitching/vinyl. Electronics, the Malibu touch screen is super user-friendly - a person could sit down and understand it completely in just a few minutes. The Nautique system takes longer to learn, but is very intuitive once you get the hang of it. Storage space is comparable, but in different places (much like the 23LSV and the G23). The wake on the G25 isn't as impressive straight out of the box as the 25LSV, but you can get it better by adding plug n play bags in the back or a LOT of people. Driver experience, the 25LSV is a planing hull and when you use the Wedge, the bow rides a little higher in the water - I would opt for the Power Seat if you go Malibu. The G25 is a displacement hull and really just plows through the water, so the bow sits lower and makes it easier to see without being up on the bolster. One of the best things on the Malibu is the Wedge - makes it super easy to go from a huge powerful wake to something longer and less aggressive without having to dump or add ballast like you would in the G25. The Nautique will be more expensive - base price is higher and more things come standard with no option to de-content like there is on the 25LSV. You'd be stoked with either one, but I hope this helps. Long-winded enough for ya? Ha ha!
Chantel Herbert this is a huge help. I see lots of comments in other boards with people struggling between these boats. So, thank you. I visited both nautique and malibu dealers this week. It's interesting how different their responses are to different things. I’d love your take since you sell both. Ballasts and Surf Systems: Malibu says their hard tanks , plug and play, and surf gate make bigger better waves. Nautique says that the Malibu hull is not designed to create the wake and so it needs that stuff. The nautique guy said the nautique hull is shaped to create the wake and so doesn’t need the extra weight etc. They both said would be good for pulling slalom and tubers. We have lots of kids in our crew so not everyone will be as focused on wake surfing as I am. What do you think is better for slalom 25lsv or g25? And for tubing, which has the best handling, most nimble? We usually pull 2 tubes warring so I need to be able to swing them easily from sides. Thank you Chantel!
I think both boats can get a good surf wake, they just do it in a different way. For slalom skiing, neither boat is ideal, but the 25LSV would be better. Cab-forward design (more weight distributed farther forward = flatter wake at higher speeds), it has a ski pylon that gets your rope in a better position, and like your Nautique dealer mentioned, the hull on the G25 is what helps make the wake bigger for wakeboarding/wakesurfing and it will also make the wake bigger for waterskiing. For tubing, I would say the LSV just because of the pylon (keeps the rope up out of the whitewash more), but if you are always pulling 2, that's a moot point, you'll most likely be using the hooks on the back. As far as handling, they are pretty differently, both are smooth and fun to drive. The Malibu is going to dig into turns a little more and hold it's line, where the Nautique is a looser feel. It feels to me like the difference between a surf style board and a skim board - the Malibu is more surf style, tracks super straight, but when you want it to turn, it cuts hard. The Nautique is more like skim style, breaks away easy and feels looser in the turns. Not sure if that helps, but that's how I think of them! You'll get a great boat either way. Drive them both if you can!
I think that depends on personal preference! I like the surf wake on the 23LSV a bit better - it seems to be longer and less steep, which is better for my style. Wakeboard wake, the G23 is HUGE even when there is no ballast, so I think that one has a lot to do with what skill level you are!
Nautique ... 100%. Go visit where and how they are made ... Meloon family leadership for nearly 100 years ... Best innovators and they stand behind their boats. No choice in my mind.
Hi. I just found your channel. I live in Northern California in the Bay Area. Would there be any problem selling a boat to me since I don’t live in Oregon?
Hi Mike! For the best experience on a new boat, you'd definitely want to work with your local dealer. If you are looking for a used boat, I would love to help out. Even if you just want to bounce ideas off me, I'm happy to help!
In this video, the 23LSV is on the trailer and the G23 is actually off the trailer and lowered to the ground. Side by side on a trailer, the G is definitely taller.
If you ever get a G23 make sure to get the trailer with stairs to the bow or you need a 6ft ladder to get into it if you forgot something. Or climb on the platform
I'm going to go with neither one of these! 23 ft is a little too small. Malibu is a super rough ride. G23 is a little overpriced for the size and the quality. So on that note I'm going to go with the centurion ri257 or the centurion ri265! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
The reliability, and the fit and finish of the Nautique is far superior. And no I do not own either one lol I just hang out with a lot of people that do
@opwan I will agree to disagree mate, I've been in malibus my whole life and yes they are nice the nautiques are superior in every way but that's why they cost more
@opwan Depends - Just got a 2019 G23 and to be honest even w/ me having 2 750LBS Ronix bags in my old 23 LSV, the G23 out of the box is a much stronger wake. I have never been able to surf back into the wake like this and still not fall. 360's much easier in the G23 as well... just a much more powerful and shaped wake.
I would say that the engine noise in the Malibu when they were using the Raptor was pretty loud, but with their new Malibu-built engine, its super quiet. Both Nautique and Malibu are using direct injection engines now, so fuel economy has gotten significantly better. Centurions make a great wake, but some of the design/features are not my favorite.
opwan guess it depends on every personnal choices because I owned a 23 LSV 2015 and would never Go back lol. Will surely take a G, centurion, supra wake over a bu. LSV and MXZ throws very different Wakes. Thats why it should be compete with the G. LSV wake is super forgivable, can be super high but short, stricly no push. Perfect press and play wakes with big crowd seating wherever they want. Perfect for skimboard. But for fine tuning wakesurfer its totally trash sorry. MXZ had more push, longer wake. But never as good as new supra/centurion. Nautique is no better but can still compete with those. Bu’s really got to Work on their surfplates. Too restrictive. After test driving/surfing/boarding almost every 2018 23 footer on the Market, the LSV just downgraded since mine. Cheaper finish, cheaper everything. Really sad for a top branded company. Nautique on the other hand Nautique still remain on the highest standard of quality.
opwan oh understand now! Yep totally right, if I would wakeboard more than surf, Axis would be My first choice. Bu’s throws massive Wakes for boarding thats for sure
opwan I absolutely understand your perspective. I feel the same way about the Nautique G series. Nothing beats a Nautique and I've been in them all.... Malibu would not be in my top 3 surf boats. But I'm a consumer and am going to be biased. This is presented as an unbiased review of an industry person... but it is far from it.
opwan I spent the day on a Nautique with Danny Harf. There are other boats that make great waves... but no one makes a wakeboard wake better than the G23. 6X wakeboard boat of the year. Your argument is more valid for a surf boat. Nautique engineering and fit and finish are in a class alone. Again, my only point here is that this industry person is marketing an unbiased review, but it's pretty bias - even where she admits Nautique wins she points out the high price tag. Malibu makes a great boat. This is simply not a great comparison video. I take nothing away from Malibu. SUPER AIR NAUTIQUE G23 NAMED WAKEBOARD BOAT OF THE YEAR The WakeWorld Riders Choice Awards just announced the Super Air Nautique G23 has once again been named Wakeboard Boat of the Year. The clear choice for riders everywhere, the G23 takes home this award for the 6th consecutive time.Each year the WakeWorld Riders Choice Awards are voted on by riders and industry enthusiasts from all around the world. Over the course of the Riders Choice Awards, the G23 has the longest standing consecutive wins in the Boat of the Year category and no other boat in history has had more firsts behind it than the G23. The now 6X Wakeboard Boat of the Year stands on top of the watersports world as the #1 choice for any rider.
Again I have to ask, have you ever used the Power Wedge? Saying Malibu's aren't adjustable at all is just not accurate. True on Surf Gate, but not really necessary to adjust, not sure why you'd want to.
I don't think that's true. I think every brand has features that are awesome and things that are not so great, but most of them are able to create a GREAT wake. Each brand has a different shape, length, and feel to it while riding, though, so if you are between brands, I'd get behind them so you know how each one feels to you.
