Ski Boat Accessories, Ad-ons, and Upgrades
Chances are, if you’re shopping for a ski boat, you’re looking forward to days filled with waterskiing, wakeboarding, wakesurfing and tubing. But to get the most out of your new boat from the get-go, consider stocking up on a few fun boating accessories when your purchase it.
Popular ski boat accessories
First, you’ll need the right sporting equipment. Along with your ski boat, consider shopping for the following popular accessories:
| Equipment |
Best for |
Additional info |
|---|---|---|
| Tube |
All ages and most physical abilities. A fun and accessible introduction to water sports |
There are many types of tubes, from flat tubes that passengers lie on to sofa-like tubes where passengers sit. Most carry 2-3 people. |
| Water skis |
Elementary-age kids and older; people who are comfortable being in the open water and towed behind a boat |
Like snow skis, water skis should fit your size and ability. Kids need shorter, broader skis, while beginners of all ages can benefit from trainer skis, which are connected. Some people opt for additional accessories like water ski gloves and water ski boots. |
| Wakeboard |
People with experience waterskiing, who are ready to take their athletics to the next level |
If you’re a beginner, look for a wakeboard with a low rocker (meaning there’s little bend in the board) and a deep fin (to help you steer). As you progress, choose a wakeboard with a higher rocker, which can be better for jumps. |
| Wakesurf board |
Experienced wakeboarders who want to level up |
When you wakesurf, you’re propelled by the boat’s wake, riding close to the stern. Most surfers drop the rope after they get started. This is only safe behind inboard boats, which don’t have an exposed propeller in the back. |
| Tow rope |
Anyone participating in water sports |
Ski ropes, tubing ropes and wakeboarding ropes are all designed with different lengths and stretches. |
| Water ski pylon |
Boaters looking to make towing easier on the boat and for the person being towed |
Water ski pylons lift up your tow rope. That has three advantages: It can keep the rope clear of your propeller, make it more efficient for the boat to tow, and make it easier for skiers and wakeboarders to get out of the water. |
| Wake shaper |
Wake surfers who want a smoother ride |
A wake shaper changes the flow of water behind a boat, making it better for wake surfing. |
Nice-to-have ski boat accessories
Once you have the sports equipment you need for your ski boat, you can focus on the extras. You can live without these accessories—but you won’t want to once you have them on board.
Stereo system
Whether you’re amping up your passengers to ski or wakeboard or setting the mood for a romantic sunset cruise, music can elevate any aquatic excursion. To hear your playlist over the hum of your engine and lapping of the waves, you’ll want a great sound system that’s easy to use.
Grill
You and your passengers are likely to work up an appetite with all those watersports. A marine grill can extend your day on the water and keep your crew from getting hangry. These grills mount onto your deck rails, keeping your food secure and your boat’s interior protected from the heat.
Floats
A day on the lake shouldn’t be all play. If you have floats and mats on board, you can find a quiet cove and just relax. Floats range from flamingos or unicorns you can ride on.
Storage system
Space is a premium on a ski boat, so an effective and multipurpose storage system can help you keep your accessories and your boat tidy. If your boat doesn’t have space for a large storage bin, dock boxes are perfect for locking up accessories at your dock or boat slip. Storage bins and dock boxes come in a range of shapes and sizes.
Caring for your boat accessories
Ski boat accessories are a major financial investment, so it’s important to take care of them.
When it comes to caring for your accessories, follow the same principles you use to look after your boat to protect them from sun damage, water damage and mildew. These tips can help:
- After a day on the water, make sure accessories are clean and dry. If they’re not, lay them out to dry completely before you store them.
- Check your towing equipment regularly for wear and tear. If it’s looking tattered, don’t use it.
- Roll your tow rope into a loose loop when you’re finished with it. Don’t let it get knotted or kinked, which can reduce the strength of the rope.
- Properly secure large accessories like tubes, float mats and wakeboards while the boat is underway. This helps keep passengers safe and protects the equipment.
- Wipe any mildew or mold with a mixture of vinegar and water.
- Wipe tubes with marine protective solution, which can block UV damage.
- Store boat accessories in a cool, dry area that’s out of direct sunlight.
Financing ski boat accessories
Stocking your boat with more toys, rafts and speakers can be instrumental in making the most of your investment. These accessories can add up, and we have some options that can help.
If you plan on purchasing a few things from the list, you might consider financing them with a Synchrony installment loan, which offers flexible terms, allowing you to pay back the loan over time and make convenient monthly payments.*
You can also choose to use the Synchrony Outdoors credit card at enrolled powersports retailers.** It’s a card that can be used at powersports retailers for the parts, gear, accessories and even fuel you need to maintain your boat (or other powersports vehicle).
Whatever the weather and whatever the gear, the Synchrony Outdoors credit card can help you kickstart your great escape. Activate your adventure and apply today.
*Offer subject to credit approval by Synchrony Bank.
**Subject to credit approval. See Synchrony Outdoors | MySynchrony for details.
