Ships parked bow to bow, port to starboard, with some towering overhead, others laying low. These marine vessels sprouted two, three, even four engines at the aft. This wasn’t a safe harbor or dry dock; it was the annual New York Boat Show. In all, not much happened in the maritime community that would be considered “revolutionary,” but changes over the next year will make things “bigger, faster and more powerful.” This is by no means a slight against what the boating industry put forth this year, but based on the stellar watercraft presented last year, it’s an endearing compliment. 2016 makes a good thing even better. Here are the boats that stood out on the floor of the Javits Center, this year.
Mastercraft X20
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Best Wakesurfing Boat: Wakesurfing is quickly rising in popularity, especially in Europe. It follows the same principals as wakeboarding, except the rider is not tethered to the boat via tow rope, but instead propelled by the curling wake of the boat. The deep gutsy hull and Gen 2 Surf System hydrofoils of the X20 create a consistent and entertaining wave, with the boat never having to break 20-30 mph. And the experience inside this 20-footer — with wrap-around bench seats and a pickle fork bow — is closer to a small yacht than ski boat.
Sea Ray 510 Sundancer
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Largest Boat for Sale: At 50 feet, 10 inches, the Sea Ray was the largest boat on the floor of the Javits Center, earning the title “Queen of the Show.” With a master bedroom, lower-level lounge, and upper-level and on-deck lounges, the 510 is a floating two-story luxury condo.
