Pontoons
Malibu Wakesetter VLX
Explore Malibu Wakesetter VLX new and used boats and find the perfect vessel for your lake lifestyle. Known for outstanding craftsmanship, superior wake shaping, and sleek interiors, these they'e ideal for riders who want premium quality and unforgettable days on the water. This boat is perfect for anyone who loves wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and spending time on the water with friends and family.
Malibu Wakesetter VLX: A Legacy of Wake Excellence
The Malibu Wakesetter VLX is one of the most iconic names in the world of wakeboarding and wake surfing boats. Originally introduced in the early 2000s, the VLX represents Malibu's dedication to building premium towboats that cater to serious riders while maintaining family-friendly functionality.
As an expert with over 30 years in inboard boats, I can confidently say the Wakesetter VLX is one of the most influential models ever produced in the wake sports market. Let’s take a deep dive into its history, evolution, technical specs, and performance legacy.
History & Model Evolution
Early 2000s: The First VLX Emerges
The VLX name originally accompanied the Sunscape VLX, a crossover boat.
As wakeboarding rose in popularity, Malibu split the Sunscape and Wakesetter lines, with the Wakesetter VLX evolving into a dedicated wake sports machine.
In the early 2000s (circa 2001–2004), the VLX was about 21.5 feet long, with clean lines, customizable ballast, and the classic Wedge system, which made it famous among wakeboarders.
2005–2010: A Platform That Changed the Game
Around 2005, Malibu introduced the 21'6" VLX hull, a deep, wide hull with enhanced ballast and better wake shape.
This generation became a staple in the wakeboard scene. Riders praised it for the crisp, rampy wake, adjustable with the Wedge and available factory ballast.
Engine options typically included the Indmar Monsoon 340, with optional upgrades for more torque.
The boat was also known for being nimble and responsive, making it a favorite not just for pros but also for families and recreational riders.
2011–2014: Refinement & Innovation
By 2011, Malibu started implementing the Maliview dash system, digital switching, and greater ballast customization.
This generation featured surf gates on later model years, as Malibu began pivoting toward surf technology.
The 21.5’ VLX hull remained, but interior creature comforts and storage were upgraded.
Engines such as the Monsoon 350 and 410 LCR became common.
2015–2018: A New Hull and Surf Revolution
In 2015, the Wakesetter VLX was redesigned as a 21’ boat on a new hull engineered for surf and wakeboarding performance.
This new VLX featured:
Quad hard-tank ballast system
Power Wedge II – a hydraulically adjustable hydrofoil wake shaper
Surf Gate system standard
Optional G3.5 or G4 towers
The boat became known for producing excellent, tunable surf waves and a very accessible wakeboarding wake at shorter line lengths and lower speeds.
2019–2020: The Final VLX Years
By 2020, the VLX name was phased out in favor of more modular, size-specific naming like the 21 VLX or the 21 LX.
These final VLX versions were built on the latest M-series styling cues but retained the performance DNA of the earlier Wakesetter lineage.
Notable Specs (2015–2018 model range)
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 21’0” |
| Beam | 98” |
| Weight | ~4,200 lbs dry |
| Fuel Capacity | 48 gallons |
| Seating | 13 persons |
| Ballast | ~3,700 lbs including Plug N Play |
| Engine Options | Malibu Monsoon 409, 450, or 555 hp |
| Hull | Wake Plus Hull |
Performance Overview
Wakeboarding
The VLX creates a classic rampy wake with a mellow lip, ideal for both intermediate and advanced riders.
With the Power Wedge II deployed and full ballast, the wake gets steeper and more aggressive – suitable for inverts and wake-to-wake tricks.
Surfing
With Surf Gate and the Wedge, the VLX delivers long, clean, and customizable waves.
It performs best with some additional lead ballast or plug-n-play bags in the rear lockers.
Though not as large as 23–25’ models, the surf wave is exceptional for a 21’ boat.
Skiing
The VLX is not a ski-centric boat, but the smaller hull models (pre-2015) offer passable recreational skiing wakes at ~30–32 mph with the Wedge retracted.
Why the VLX Matters
The Wakesetter VLX holds a mythical status among wake boats. It defined a generation of wakeboarders, helped launch Malibu into the surf market with Surf Gate, and continues to be sought after on the used market due to its:
Manageable size
Powerful wake/surf capability
Stylish, well-thought-out interiors
Durable construction and resale value
Expert Buying Advice (Used Market)
2005–2008 models are budget-friendly and excellent for wakeboarding; surf performance is limited without aftermarket mods.
2011–2014 models are the sweet spot for price and features; many can be upgraded with Surf Gate kits.
2015–2018 VLX boats are among the best 21’ surf/wake combos ever built, especially if equipped with the Power Wedge II and Surf Gate.
Inspect older models for stringer rot, ballast pump wear, and touchscreen reliability if equipped.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a premium, versatile, and proven inboard boat under 22 feet, the Malibu Wakesetter VLX remains one of the best ever made. With over two decades of evolution, it’s a boat that perfectly balances performance and value – whether you're carving surf waves or boosting wakeboard tricks.