Why only the MasterCraft
Our 26' 2023 MasterCraft X26 is a tow boat made for surfing. Its propeller sits under the hull, not hanging off the back. Its fast-fill ballast system holds more than 4,000 pounds of water, which sinks the stern and shapes a clean, steady wave you can ride. Most boats can't build that wave, and you should never surf close behind a boat with an exposed propeller. Discover Boating's tips for first-time wakesurfers give the same warning.
How a wake surfing lesson works
You start in the water with your heels on the board and a rope in your hands. The boat pulls you up slowly. Once you find the sweet spot on the wave, you toss the rope back into the boat and ride. The boat moves slower than it does for wakeboarding, so falls tend to be softer.
The MasterCraft runs with a water sports instructor who has 15 years of experience. Your instructor helps you find the sweet spot, which is the part most beginners struggle with. Go too far back and you fall off the wave. Go too far forward and you run into it.
Rules that still apply
You may drop the rope, but New York's towing rules still cover the start. A second person, at least 10 years old, must watch the rider. Riders wear a fastened Coast Guard approved life jacket. Towing is only legal from sunrise to sunset, so the 7:00 pm sunset cruise isn't a surf trip.
What is included
Every MasterCraft charter includes up to two hours of towed sports, and wake surfing counts toward that time. The boat holds up to 12 guests. Other wake boats listed for rent in Sag Harbor carry up to 6, so a bigger group can come along. Seating faces the back, so the whole group can watch. Ask when booking if you want more surf time.
Want to mix it up? Our wakeboarding trips use the same boat. See all of our watersports for more ideas.
Who should try it
Surfing a boat wake in the Hamptons suits anyone who can swim and wants to try board sports without a hard start. If you snowboard or skateboard, the stance will feel familiar. Groups also like it because the boat moves slowly and stays close, so riders and watchers can talk between runs.
What to bring
Ice and bottled water are aboard. Bring towels, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you like. Please skip red wine and red drinks, since they stain. Charters run 7 days a week from May 1 to October 15, with morning trips at 10:00 am and afternoon trips at 2:30 pm. See everything else you can do on our Hamptons yacht charters.
