Driving a Wakesurfer with your Malibu
1. Keep engine off until rider is in the water and away from the boat.
Just to be safe, while your surfer is getting ready it is always best to keep the engine off. This way no one accidentally bumps the throttle out of neutral while someone is around the prop or holding onto the rope. When you know that the surfer is in the water and away from Malibu’s Integrated Surf Platform, then you can start the boat up and get ready to wakesurf.
2. Check your surroundings
Do a quick check of your surroundings before you take off to make sure no one is around you. You want to always avoid cutting into someone’s line while they are surfing or wakeboarding. This avoids having to make evasive maneuvers while your surfer is up and surfing.
3. Make sure the wakesurf rope is thight
Check your rear-view mirror or over your shoulder to make sure that the surfer’s rope is tight. By doing this you will make sure that you don’t yank their arms too hard, which could potentially result in injury, and it makes it much easier to get up whether you’re just learning or you’re an advanced rider.
4. Keep your eyes forward and use your mirror
When pulling a surfer, it can be easy to get distracted and watch what is happening behind you. It is essential to be aware of what is ahead of you to be sure that no other vessel gets to close or tries to cut you off. It is best to watch the action in your rear-view mirror. With Malibu’s Viper II Command Center you can always switch to the media screen which will allow you to see where your surfer is at all times.
5. Turn to the opposite side of your surfer
When your rider goes down, immediately cut the throttle and turn to the opposite side they are surfing on. This will allow your boat to pivot and make a complete 180, making it even easier to idle back to your rider. If you are equipped with Malibu’s patented surf gate this will happen effortlessly for you.
6. Keep the rider on the driver's side
The safest way to pick up a fallen rider is to always keep them on the driver’s side. This will give you better visibility of who is surfing while they are in the water. Picking up on the port side creates a blind spot where you could potentially get too close for comfort.
7. Choose your line before you take off
It helps to choose a line to drive before you take off, and point your boat in the direction initially. This way you avoid making turns right away while your rider is getting up.
8. Drive as straight as you can
Driving straight is best for the rider because it delivers a consistent wave without any interference. Pick a point on the shoreline to aim for and line up the bow of the boat to that point. Malibu’s surf technology allows you to completely weight your boat evenly which allows for an easier time pulling a straight line. The days of leaning your boat and driving with a slight turn are over!
