Pontoons
Super Air Nautique 230
The Super Air Nautique 230 is a 23-foot legacy wakeboard boat built for riders who want big, clean, firm wakes with room for large crews. Produced from 2007 to 2021, it offers a long, wide wake perfect for inverts and air tricks, and handles chop like a champ. While not surf-specific, it can deliver a decent wave with ballast upgrades and surf tabs. With rock-solid PCM engines and a simple, proven design, the 230 is a reliable choice for riders prioritizing wakeboarding performance and space.
The Super Air Nautique 230 is a legacy boat that bridged the gap between old-school wake performance and modern design. Introduced in 2007, the 230 was developed as a bigger, deeper, and more ballast-capable platform than the popular 210, targeting serious wakeboarders and emerging surf riders alike. Its long production run (2007–2021) speaks to its versatility, durability, and continued fan base.
As a veteran in the inboard industry, I’d describe the 230 as the ultimate big-water wakeboard boat of its era — a model that offered competition-level wakes and crew-friendly space long before the G-Series arrived.
Historical Overview
2007–2012: The Original Heavyweight
Released as the “wakeboarder’s big boat”, the 230 featured a deeper hull, more ballast, and a much larger interior than the 210.
Came standard with a rear-facing bench, ballast tanks (~900 lbs), and Flight Control tower.
The wake was steep, long, and powerful — perfect for inverts and high-speed wake tricks.
Surfing was possible but limited, requiring extra ballast and manual wave shapers.
2013–2021: Refined and Upgraded
Dash redesign, touch-screen integration, and updated tower options (Flight Control 3).
Surf Pipe, Zero Off GPS speed control, and PCM 409/450 engine options available.
Plug-n-play ballast became common, and aftermarket surf upgrades grew in popularity.
Stayed in the lineup even after the G-Series launched, due to its simpler mechanics and strong resale.
Key Specs (2021 model)
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 23’0” |
| Beam | 100” |
| Dry Weight | ~4,700 lbs |
| Fuel Capacity | 47 gallons |
| Seating Capacity | 15 |
| Factory Ballast | ~900 lbs (hard tanks) |
| Engine Options | PCM EX 343, ZR4 409, ZR 450 |
| Hull | Modified V-hull for wake shape and stability |
Performance Overview
Wakeboarding
The 230’s wake is big, wide, and firm, with a long transition and solid lip.
Performs best at 22–24 mph with added ballast (lead or plug-n-play bags).
Wake-to-wake consistency is excellent, ideal for big air tricks, spins, and doubles.
Holds speed and line tension exceptionally well, even with large crews.
Wakesurfing
Not originally designed for wakesurfing, but capable with upgrades.
Add Go Surf Assist or aftermarket tabs, plus rear locker weight, for a usable wave.
Final years (2019–2021) with plug-n-play ballast could throw a surfable wave for light to mid-weight riders.
Interior Layout & Usability
Classic open bow design with wraparound cockpit seating.
Rear lounge seat flips up for stadium viewing.
Stronger build quality than many competitors in the 2000s-era wake boat class.
Simplified design made the 230 easy to maintain and highly customizable.
Strengths and Limitations
| Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Legendary wakeboarding wake | Requires mods for decent surf wave |
| Excellent rough water ride | Lacks integrated surf tech |
| Reliable PCM powertrains | Heavier to trailer than a 210 |
| Spacious interior layout | More analog tech vs G-Series |
| Long production = great used market | Tall freeboard not ideal for slalom skiing |
Who It’s Ideal For
Riders who prioritize wakeboarding over surfing
Crews that need space, storage, and durability
Owners who want a no-nonsense, proven V-drive
Great for lakes with chop or high boat traffic
Buyers looking for a G-Series alternative with lower maintenance and price
Used Market Tips
Early models (2007–2010) are high-value wakeboarders under $60K, depending on condition.
Look for engine hours under 1,000 and check:
Ballast pumps
Vinyl condition in rear sun pad areas
Tower welds (especially on early FCTs)
Later models (2015+) may have plug-n-play, better dashes, and Surf Pipe
Final Thoughts
The Super Air Nautique 230 is a standout model in wakeboarding history — bridging the gap between traditional V-drive simplicity and the high-tech G-Series era. With a wake that helped train countless pros and a build that stands the test of time, the 230 remains a go-to for serious riders and large families alike. It's a reliable, proven big-wake platform with enduring value on the used market.