Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Malibu Offers “Big!” Incentives For Boat Show Buyers


The Big Air! Big Screen! Big Savings! Malibu Boat Show Promotion consists of a free Patented Power Wedge or a free MaliView 6.5” color LCD upgrade and 3 years of service free. From January 1 through March 31, 2009 participating North American Malibu Boats dealers are turning boat shows into the ultimate Malibu boat-buying experience in a “Big” way with this offer.

The Big Air! Big Screen! Big Savings! Malibu Boat Show Promotion is the choice between two of the greatest water sports boating innovations ever developed. Malibu is giving boat show buyers the choice between launching off huge customizable wakes with a free Patented Power Wedge or creating their own on-water screening room with the all-new 10-button MaliView 6.5” color LCD system. These choices represent as much as $2100 in free, exclusive Malibu innovations that can be redeemed with any boat purchased during this boat show season.

Malibu Boats is also offering FREE service for 3 years as a part of the Big Air! Big Screen! Big Savings! Malibu Boat Show Promotion. Those who become Malibu boat owners during the show will have no out of pocket expenses on boat service for three years. Service visits like oil changes, basic winterization and de-winterization and the 20-hour service will be taken care of. Up to a $1000 of service is free with the purchase of a Malibu boat during the boat show season.

These amazing benefits join deep Malibu discounts on all 2008 inventoried boats. There is no better time to own a Malibu boat and no better time to begin that experience than the 2009 boat show season. Visit malibuboats.com to locate your nearest Malibu boat show so you don’t miss The Big Air! Big Screen! Big Savings! Malibu Boat Show Event.

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Monday, December 15, 2008

2009 Malibu Boat Shows

Check out the list of the boat shows you can visit to expereince 2009 Malibu Boat Models and the Big Air! Big Screen! Big Savings! Malibu Boat Show Promotion. This list is complete with links to the show web site when available. If you have any questions about these shows please e-mail info@malibuboats.com.

Here is the January portion of the 2009 Malibu Boat Show list. To view the entire list go to http://www.malibuboats.com/news/show/12.

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Friday, December 12, 2008

Corvette Boat on Display at GM World


The licensed 2008 Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V boat by Malibu Boats is on display in GM World at the Renaissance Center in Detroit, MI. It was trailered into the Renaissance Center on December 2, 2008 and will be on display until the Detroit boat show at Cobo in Mid-February.

Admission is free to GM World, an interactive exhibit showcasing the products and services of the world's largest automaker. The 50,000-square-foot showroom displays a rotating roster of 26 vehicles, including many never seen in North America. It's like an auto show for GM products only. Videos and audio players triggered by sensors help present product information. The exhibit has four sections: Touring and Luxury, Family and Neighborhood, Outdoors and Sports Enthusiasts.

The display boat is on loan from Skier's Pier Marina & Proshop in Waterford, Michigan. They are a long-time distinguished Malibu Boats dealer.

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Malibu Boats Wins 2009 Design Excellence Award

This morning we received an e-mail from Trailer Boat Magazine informing us that the Malibu Corvette Limited Edition Sport-V is a Trailer Boats Excellence in Design Award Winner for 2009. The article on this achivement will be featured in the January issue of Trailer Boats magazine, with web coverage going live on TrailerBoats.com in early January 2009.

Ron Eldridge, Editor of Trailer Boats magazine, wrote, "We would like to thank you for pushing the envelope for boat design. It is this kind of vision and risk-taking that the Trailer Boats Excellence in Design Awards program is intended to recognize. Your achievement is exemplary..."

The award will be presented to the Malibu Boats R&D Team at the 2009 Miami International Boat Show. Dan Gasper, Paul Gaines and Shane Stillman will be accepting the award for their outstanding design on behalf of themselves and Malibu Boats.

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Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Malibu's Response to the Avid Skier's Growing Family

Malibu Boats introduces the Response FXi for 2009, a professional-level ski boat that doesn’t leave your family or their water sports on the dock.

The 2009 Response FXi is a new cross-over from Malibu Boats that accommodates an athletic family with interior space, professional-level slalom performance and wakeboard ability. This 20-foot by 8.2-foot direct-drive ski boat lights up the course with soft flat wakes at almost any line length. The increased beam and freeboard offers more room for family. Additionally, the width of the Response FXi joined with available ballast and the available Patented Power Wedge causes this versatile Malibu to kick-up great wakes at wakeboarding speeds. At Malibu compromise is a copout, they build boats to do it all for you.

Additional Links
Official Response FXi Web Page
Response FXi E-newsletter Article
FXi Flickr.com Gallery
FXi del.icio.us Bookmarks of Continuing Coverage
RSS feed for FXi del.icio.us Bookmarks

Cross-over or not, this boat is built to ski. Malibu has taken their agile 20-foot Cut Diamond Hull and put it under a multi-port fuel injected direct-drive engine to create an amazing traditional-style ski boat. The Response FXi excels in World Class slalom. Designed to flatten and soften the wakes at any slalom line length and improve handling, Malibu’s Cut Diamond Hull, is a 3-event enthusiast’s dream. The geometry of this hull’s running surface has been optimized to precisely command the flow of water, displace less water and create a softer, flatter wake. This design along with the Response FXi’s straight chine perpetuates extreme agility and a phenomenal rough-water ride.

And after the skiers in the crew are pulled past their limits, the rest of the family can ride. The Response FXi features Precision Pro Speed Control, available ballast monitoring and optional Power Wedge controls all customizable through Rider Presets. Add the Patented Power Wedge and available 400-pound rear ballast for increased wake size and personalized shape when you want it. Cap your Response FXi with an optional Illusion XS tower and the kids will have their wakeboard boat without compromising your morning ski run.

The increased beam and freeboard of the Response FXi has given Malibu the opportunity to add more comfort, more luxury and more room. The handcrafted interior of the Response FXi exudes a level of luxury typically reserved for a Malibu Luxury Sport-V. From tuck and roll style upholstery elements to multi-textured 38-ounnce stain resistant vinyl to over stuffed seat cushions. This boat is high-end experience on the water even when it is standing still.

The FXi has a 98-inch beam and increased freeboard. These specs translate to more performance, but also more room for family. The Response FXi provides comfortable room for 10 with the storage to support such a large crew. The rear locking split-lid hatch, over-sized observer seat storage and ski locker welcome the gear you want to bring to along. And if you opt for 400 pounds of Malibu Launch System (MLS) this ballast will not compromise your storage in the Response FXi. It is mounted beneath the floor. Malibu is the only boat company to offer this kind of accommodation and versatility.

The FXi has a sleek performance profile that is unmistakable on the lake. This look is thanks, in part, to the precisely sculpted Cut Diamond Hull. These lines coupled with the completely customizable progressive gel coat graphics and the distinct MH2 frameless windshield make the Response FXi look as good as it performs. Add the available Illusion XS tower and you will further separate your family from the boating pack.

The exterior of the Response FXi also offers advantages beyond standing out on the lake. This boat is only 20 feet long from bow to stern. It is easy to tow, store and maneuver in tight places on the water. Get ready to park your vehicle on the street because the Response FXi fits in the garage. If your garage is on the small side, remove the FXi swim step and store your pride and joy with confidence.

The Response FXi joins 11 other models in the 2009 Malibu Boats line. Visit your nearest Malibu Boats dealer to experience the Malibu Difference on the water.

Specs
Length: 20’/6m
Beam: 98”/2.49m
Draft: 22”/0.56m
Capacity: 10 persons
Weight: 3200 lbs.
Fuel: 46 gal./174L
Hull design: Cut Diamond

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Malibu Sponsors V8 Supercar Champion Jamie Whincup


Newly-crowned V8 Supercar Champion Jamie Whincup will take to the water with Malibu Boats during his well-earned break and beyond, announcing a new personal sponsorship with the industry leading marine manufacturer in Australia and the US.

The 25-year-old Gold Coast resident and man most likely to be crowned 2008 V8 champion today took possession of a new Malibu Wakesetter VLX, fittingly, on just the second day of Summer.

A wakeboarding enthusiast, Whincup was excited about the prospect of the relationship with Malibu and said he looked forward to hitting the water once the hard work of winning his first V8 Supercar championship was done.

“I’m excited about announcing a new personal sponsorship with Malibu Boats, next to my passion for race cars I am a keen wakeboarder and am looking forward to a relaxing summer aboard the Wakesetter VLX,” said Whincup.

To read the rest of this release visit Jamie Whincup's web site and blog.

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Monday, December 8, 2008

Meet Kevin Henshaw and His Wakesetter VLX


Malibu Factory Rider, Kevin Henshaw, recently was the subject of a short video clip put together by Alliance Magazine. In this video, Henshaw shows off his riding as well as the wakeboard boat he rides behind. Kevin chooses the Malibu Wakesetter VLX. He likes the fact that Malibu offers so many sizes of true wakeboard boats. His parents own a 20-foot Malibu Wakesetter VTX while he rides behind the 21-foot VLX. The Wakesetter size goes up to 24' 7". There's something for everyone.

Kevin talks about the Malibu features that he enjoys. Number one is the wake. Of course, that's his bread and butter. He comments about the easy process for creating a wake in a Malibu boat. Aside form that he talks about the drive ability and handling. He mentions that anybody can drive his boat. It's that easy to handle. Kevin also really likes the stereo set-up. He can control his iPod through the MUX switch panel. This way he is control of the tunes even if he's driving.

Check out the Wakestter VLX and Kevin's moves. You'll see why he's such a great part of our team.

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Monday, November 10, 2008

WakeWorld.com Added VLX Credit to 1260 Article

WakeWorld.com just edited the short article they did on Danny Harf's 1260 to include an acknowledgement to the Malibu Wakesetter VLX for being the only tow boat to pull the history-making trick.

"Danny's 1260 was pulled by Chad Sharpe's Malibu Wakesetter VLX." It's only one line, but it's a big deal to Malibu Boats. The VLX is the only tow boat to ever pull a 1260. Granted Danny did most of the work, but we are happy to have been involved.

Go to WakeWorld.com to read the entire Danny Harf 1260 article.

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Sunday, November 9, 2008

Malibu Crew Broke the Harf 1260 Story in September

After making the post about Danny Harf landing his history-making 1260 behind a Wakesetter VLX, we decided to check out TheMalibuCrew.com forums to see if they knew this cool fact. We should have known... we are way behind on this story. The Crew broke the news about Harf landing his 1260 behind a Malibu in Late September. We bow to the masters of Malibu news. Thanks, Malibu Crew!

Take a look at the original thread about Harf's 1260 on the Malibu Crew web site.

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Danny Harf Landed His 1260 Behind a Malibu Boat

We are probably a little late on this, but we found out something really cool this week. After watching Danny Harf's 1260 video and talking with Team Malibu Pro Rider Chad Sharpe, we found out that Harf landed his 1260 behind Shrape's Wakesetter VLX back in September.

You can get a few glimpses of Chad's VLX in video and it looked like his boat to us, the first time we saw it. We saw the white Illusion X tower, the white boat and we thought we got a look at the Wakesetter brand on the side of the hull. We also saw that distinct looking wake. So we asked Chad if we were seeing things... He confirmed that Danny landed the history-making 1260 behind his Wakesetter.

Harf is a good friend of Malibu Boats and our team riders and we wanted to offer him our congratulations no matter what boat he achieved this accomplishment behind. But now that we know it was done behind a Malibu, well, we are that much more happy to share our congratulations with Harf.

Way to go, Danny! And thanks for lending him the boat Chad. Just goes to show Malibu Boats can help you achieve your riding goals no matter what your skill level.

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Friday, November 7, 2008

The Isners Help Dad Land a Backroll and a Malibu Boat for Christmas

Inspired by the Malibu Boat Rockin' Christmas Event, we thought we could put you into the Christmas spirit by sharing some fun Malibu Christmas stories. We are posting owner accounts of amazing Christmas surprises that started with a Malibu boat and ended with extremely happy families.

The first of these Malibu Boats Christmas tales takes place in Washington State just before the Christmas of 2007. The Isner family visited Bake's Marine, their local Malibu Boats dealer, to take their '04 Sunscape 21 LSV to be winterized. When Joe and Kim Isner dropped their boat off they noticed the new 2008 Malibu boats in the Bake's showroom. They were all over the Wakesetter 23 LSV checking out every addition and advancement Malibu had made since their boat was made. The Isner girls, Devon 14 and Kendall 12, loved the added room. But Dad Joe was day dreaming about the coveted backroll he had been trying to land. He just knew the 23 LSV would give him the wake he knew he needed to get it done.

"My husband was giddy when he learned about the ballast tanks and was convinced he would be able to land his backroll with a wake like that!" Kim recalled.

So Kim and Joe sat down with Bake's Marine Sales Manager Matt Cour and looked at the numbers. Although Joe was excited, he wanted to think about it. He knew he wanted to get a new boat this year, but wanted to think about it just the same.

It was after Joe's excited display that Kim, Kendall and Devon began planning the biggest and best Christmas surprise ever for the man in their lives. Kim called Matt back and let him know she wanted to surprise Joe with the 23 LSV for Christmas. Matt suggested Bake's keep the boat until just before the big day so Joe didn't catch wind of their plans. So after the deal was made the boat stayed at the dealership until then.

Kim had a friend of the family pick the boat up a few days before Christmas. Matt had ordered a special big red bow online and made sure Kim's friend had that and the boat ready for the big surprise.

The family friend dropped the boat off in the Isner's driveway at around 11am on Christmas morning. The whole family was inside opening gifts. When the last present had been opened, so Joe thought, the girls lead him outside. He couldn't believe what he saw there in front of the house. It was a 2008 Wakesetter 23 LSV complete with a huge red bow. Do you think he saw himself completing that backroll too?

Joe was completely surprised. Kim's plan was a huge success and they have been enjoying their Wakesetter all summer.

Kim informed us. "And my husband finally landed his backroll!"

We asked Kim how she justified such a large purchase, especially as a Christmas gift. She had this to say, "I consider it a great investment, especially considering the fun and memories we have shared with our family and friends."

Kim also said this about her Malibu experience, "We have had such a wonderful experience with Bakes Marine in Issaquah. This is the second Malibu boat we have purchased from them and their customer service from sales to maintenance is fabulous. Matt Cour was key in helping the kids and I pull off this surprise for my husband complete with a huge red bow he purchased! He helped us customize the boat to meet our needs. He and service manager, Paul Gregoire, answered all of my questions regarding accessories or which line to buy for our new surfboard!"

Hope you enjoyed this soon-to-be Malibu Boats Christmas classic. If you know of a cool Malibu Christmas story, e-mail it to amym@malibuboats.com. We will write about it and post it here. Or if you are interested in created a Malibu Christmas story of your own, check out the Malibu Boat Rockin' Christmas Event. Together with Malibu Boats dealers across the nation, we are helping to create once-in-a-life-time Christmas surprises. Locate your nearest Malibu Boats dealer to plan the best Christmas ever for your family.

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Friday, October 31, 2008

Invest in Family with a Malibu Boat for Christmas

The Malibu Boat Rockin’ Christmas Event is helping parents invest back into their families with a gift of fun, togetherness and years of priceless memories in a Malibu boat.

Malibu Boats and participating dealers nation-wide are celebrating Christmas 2008 with the Malibu Boat Rockin’ Christmas Event. The Rockin’ Christmas Event is helping parents invest back into their families with the gift of a Malibu boat this holiday season. During this event the Malibu Boats factory and national dealer will help parents pull off a string of once-in-a-lifetime Christmas surprises. They are giving huge factory incentives on inventoried boats and throwing in a boatload of water sports gifts, lessons and service. This is a Malibu Boats package the entire family will love opening on December 25th. Malibu dealers are even making the gift presentation as memorable as the gift itself by working with families to develop personalized Christmas surprises. Malibu Boats is taking the hassle out of the busiest time of the year with a total family Christmas solution that is a gift of fun, togetherness and years of priceless memories.
  • Once in lifetime deals on the World’s #1 selling boats.
  • Save up to $20,000 off MSRP on select models!!!
  • Special Financing available!
  • A boatload of gifts for the whole family.
  • Choose skiing or boarding accessories for the whole family.
  • Official Malibu Merchandise shopping spree for the whole family.
  • A gift certificate for general boating or professional water sports lessons.
  • Personalized Christmas surprises for each family.
  • Offer Ends December 31st!
Contact your local Malibu Boats dealer to find out more about the Malibu Boat Rockin' Christmas Event and how they can help you pull off the greatest Christmas surprise ever for your family.

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Thursday, October 30, 2008

Olympic Ice Hockey Player Natalie Darwitz Dreams of a Malibu Boat

We just found this short article published by the St. Paul Pioneer Press about Natalie Darwitz. It's actually an interview. I'm sure you're asking yourself what does Natalie Darwitz, a repeat Olympic Women's Ice Hockey medalist and assistant coach at the University of Minnesota, have to do with Malibu Boats. Well if you would have asked us before reading this article I don't think we would have been able to answer that question either, but today...

Darwitz said this in her interview with the Pioneer Press, "I'd like to live on a lake and have a Malibu boat out front. That's my dream boat. I like to ski and wakeboard in the summer. "

We are officially Natalie Darwitz fans here at Malibu Boats. The rest of the interview was pretty good too. Natalie sounds like a lot of fun and obviously she is a great hockey player. We like you too, Natalie. Thank you for appreciating Malibu Boats.

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Malibu Dealer Boarding For Breast Cancer in Michigan

The boating season is coming to an end in many states around the country, but that doesn't mean the boating fun has to stop. Keep your water sports spirit going through the fall by visiting your nearest Malibu Boats dealer to participate in the one of the many off-season Malibu Boats events scheduled during the next couple of months.

Some of these events correspond with huge manufacturer-backed sales on boats and gear. Other of these happenings are strictly about fun. Either way Malibu Boats dealer fall events are your way to get your Malibu Boats fix even after the boat stored for the winter.

The largest Malibu Boats dealer in Michigan, The Edge, is keeping the season alive with their yearly “All Seasons Fund Raiser” event to benefit Boarding For Breast Cancer. The Edge is transforming their dealership to a huge board sport complex the day after Thanksgiving. Let that turkey digest, kick back and watch the board sport action.

On November 28, 2008 The Edge will be holding a Snow Rail Jam in their parking lot, a Skate Contest in their warehouse and a huge Water Sports Session on their lake. And if that not enough action to keep you occupied check out their Black Friday sale. Everything in their shop is on sale including the Malibu boats. Bring in 5 canned food items for Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes and take another 10% off any purchase, excluding boats.

Admission to this event is free and the entry fee to participate in the boardsports is $10. These funds go directly to “Boarding For Breast Cancer”. For more information about this Fall Malibu dealer event contact Zach Thommen at The Edge. E-mail zacht@edgeski.com or call 269-327-1000.

If you are curious about unique and fun Malibu Boats events in your area, post your comment here and we'll track down some fun local Malibu get-togethers for you. Or Contact your local Malibu Boats dealer to find out about the Malibu fun going on in your area. Even though your boat's put away you can still play.

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Saturday, October 25, 2008

Malibu Boat Owner Perspective - Pete Uyeyama

We ran into Pete Uyeyama several weeks ago at a boat test. He stopped by to check out the new 2009 Malibu boats and we got to chatting with him. Turns out he owns a Malibu boat, his second, and he feels very strongly about the way boating has affected his life and the lives of his children. Pete shared these thoughts with us and we captured them on camera.

Find out how Pete became interested in boating, what led him to buy his first boat and how he feels about the level of investment he has put into boating. Pete's stories are fun, entertaining and insightful.

Visit the Malibu Boats YouTube Channel, meet Pete Uyeyama and find out why he says, "...this [buying a boat] is an investment in my family."


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Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Malibu Auto Wedge Boosts Performance and Saves Fuel

The Malibu Boats Patented Power Wedge now features Auto Wedge, which boosts performance and conserves fuel while pulling up or retrieving riders.

Auto Wedge, as it is appropriately named, automatically adjusts the Power Wedge to the neutral down position until the boat reaches the rider’s set-speed. This process allows the boat to get up to speed without the displacement of water the Power Wedge creates. This decreases the time it takes the boat to get on plane by 34%, reduces bow rise and improves fuel consumption by 30%. These results were recorded when Auto Wedge was independently tested by Medallion Instrumentation Systems and Indmar Marine Engines using the Advanced Wakeboard Preset.

To learn more about Auto Wedge visit the October issue of the Malibu Boats E-newsletter. Or take a look at this short Malibu Boats video demonstrating Auto Wedge operation.

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Monday, October 20, 2008

Malibu Boats October E-newsletter Posted

The Malibu Boats E-newsletter was posted today. This October issue features the introduction of the 2009 Wakesetter VLX. It also includes an article outlining the benefits and innovation surrounding Malibu Boats' new Power Wedge feature, Auto Wedge. The "Tips" segment for October is the first of several focusing on the new MaliView 6.5" Color LCD Dash System. This month Lance Norris from Medallion Instrumentation Systems describes Precision Pro Speed Control operation on MaliView. You can also meet Pete Uyeyama in this issue of the Malibu Boats E-newsletter. Pete is a boat owner who defines his boat purchases as investments in family. We are also sharing our favorite video for the month, giving you the 411 on Fall dealer events and showing off some warm Malibu gear in this e-newsletter.

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Saturday, October 18, 2008

Hands-down the Strongest Wakeboard Tower

This is a fun picture that was taken by the staff photographer for WakeBoarding and WaterSki Magazines, Bill Doster. Todd Ristorcelli, Editor for WaterSki Magazine, tested the Illusion X wakeboard tower for strength at the WaterSki Magazine tests held at Lake Tulloch, CA last month. A six something, 200 and something pound guy doing a handstand on top of the tower. I'd say Malibu Boats passed the tower test! Thanks for the demonstration Todd. Hands-down the strongest wakeboard tower on the market, right Todd?

Thursday, October 16, 2008

New Warren Miller Film Premires at Malibu Boats Dealership

In the October issue of the Malibu Boats E-newsletter we included short article about three really cool dealer events going off this fall. One of the coolest is the premier of Children of Winter, Warren Miller's new film, that is being held at Paradise Watersports in Murrieta, CA on November 20, 2008.

Warren Miller’s Children of Winter Premier
Paradise Watersports - Murrieta, CA

One of Malibu’s largest California boat dealerships, Paradise Watersports, is celebrating the beginning of “the other” skiing season with the premier of Warren Miller’s new action sports film, Children of Winter. The World Tour of this latest achievement from the legend Warren Miller, begins October 22, 2008 and will make a stop at Paradise Watersports in Murrieta, CA on November 20, 2008.

Paradise will premier this full length feature film in HD on a 12-foot screen with thundering surround sound. Children of Winter is presented in striking high-definition and narrated by skiing icon Jonny Moseley, Warren Miller showcases incredible cinematography that will get you craving outrageous adventure on the snow or in the water! The Paradise Watersports Stop with will be the first screening of Children of Winter in Southern California!

The gates open at 5pm and the movie rolls at 7pm, but there will be plenty to do before the curtain goes up. Paradise has secured a number of winter and water sports vendors offering amazing deals as well as a beer and wine garden and a barbeque. Plus event goers will be surrounded by Malibu boats and Paradise is offering deep discounts on the World’s #1 selling waters sports boats. On top of all this action Paradise is raffling off a ton of prizes.

According to Warren Miller Films, “Warren Miller film premiers are an experience, a celebration, and a phenomenon not to be missed!” Contact Chris Loomis at Paradise Watersports for tickets. E-mail chris@paradisesocal.com or call the dealership at 951-973-7343.

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Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Team Malibu Takes Singapore Wakeboard World Cup

Team Malibu Pro Riders Dallas Friday and Phillip Soven topped the podiums in Singapore last weekend. This win is a repeat of last year for the Malibu Boats pair. Team Malibu Rider Jeff Weatherall placed fourth and went home with a portion of the purse as well. Read more about the Singapore Wakeboard World Cup on the IWSF web site.

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Friday, October 10, 2008

Tailgate in a Malibu Boat at UT Football Games

The boating season is coming to an end in many states around the country, but that doesn't mean the boating fun has to stop. Keep your water sports spirit going through the fall by visiting your nearest Malibu Boats dealer to participate in the one of the many off-season Malibu Boats events scheduled during the next couple of months.

Some of these events correspond with huge manufacturer-backed sales on boats and gear. Other of these happenings are strictly about fun. Either way Malibu Boats dealer fall events are your way to get your Malibu Boats fix even after the boat stored for the winter.

Central Texas Watersports in Austin, Texas is inviting local water sports boaters to join them at all of the UT football games the team is playing at home this year. At each college football game, you'll find the CTWS family tailgating in the University of Texas parking lot in their specially designed Longhorn Malibu wakeboard boat. This orange and white tribute to school spirit is a great place to party before home games as well as experience the Malibu Difference. Visit the CTWS blog or web site to contact the dealership about joining them at the games. And as the CTWS crew says "Hook'em Horns".

We will be highlighting Fall dealer events like this one over the next several weeks on the Malibu Boats blog. If you are curious about unique and fun Malibu Boats events in your area, post your comment here and we'll track down some fun local Malibu get-togethers for you. Even though your boat's put away you can still play.

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Wednesday, October 8, 2008

New Photos of the Malibu Sunscape 23 LSV

Check out the Malibu Boats Flickr feed. We just uploaded new photos of the 2009 Sunscape 23 LSV. The majority of these images were captured on Lake Tahoe, CA many on the north shore of the lake. White on white, this particular 23-foot Luxury Sport-V is the epitome of class and sophistication. What a beautiful boat!

There is much more to come. Stay tuned to Malibu Boats.

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Friday, September 26, 2008

Matt Hickman From Wakeboarding Magazine Tests '09 VLX

This is a short 2:44 minute video featuring Matt Hickman, West Coast Editor of Wakeboarding Magazine. Matt and a whole crew of other testers went through 11 2009 Malibu boat models at Lake Tulloch earlier this week. The footage featured in this clip was captured directly after Matt rode behind the 2009 Wakesetter VLX. He discusses the wake, the look, the interior and MaliView. Take a look at what Matt had to say about Malibu's newest wakeboard boat.

World's Best Wedding Pictures

Ronald and Janel from, Canadian Malibu Boats Dealer, Wizard Lake Marine sent a link to their wedding picture gallery on FaceBook. These are the world's best wedding pictures! Take a look... Doesn't look like their having any fun at all. Tubing, driving and posing in the Corvette boat, what could be better on your wedding day. Best of luck Ronnie and Janel. Keep having this Malibu Boats kind of fun!

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Thursday, September 25, 2008

Just Returned From WaterSki/Wakeboarding Mag Tests

We just returned from spending several days with the WaterSki and Wakeboarding Magazine boat test crews. They are making their rounds testing boats for the 2009 Boat Buyer's Guide. They put slips full of Malibu boats to the test. The results were just as we would have hoped.

They were stunned by the level of innovation we poured into our '09 line. They could not get over the fact that we have introduced five new models for the 2009 model year as well as R&D intensive innovations like Auto Wedge and MaliView. When they were done being blow away by our ambition they jumped in the boats to experience 2009 the Malibu Boats way. In a year when many manufactures are throttling back, we have released some of the most profound industry-changing developments of our existence. (MaliView, Auto Wedge, Wakesetter VLX, Sunscape 21 LSV, 21 vRide, 23 vRide and Response FXi)

Testers were amazed to see just how these new models, features and options translated into more fun on the lake for boaters. That's what it's all about. We are working even harder to providing families with the quality time they need. Some down time in the boat relaxing and having fun can be just the ticket to keeping the family close and get ready for the week ahead.

Be on the look out for video clips and images we captured at the test. We gathered a ton of content to share with you and we will be posting it soon.

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Saturday, September 20, 2008

'09 Wakesetter VLX Video Posted on YouTube

We just posted a new 1.5 minute video of the 2009 Wakesetter VLX on YouTube. It's a collection of footage and images we have captured behind the scenes at our photo shoots. We will have additional footage available soon...

To learn more about the 2009 Wakesetter VLX log onto the Malibu Boats web site or go directly to the Malibu Boats 2009 Wakesetter VLX web page.

Friday, September 19, 2008

2009 21 vRide Movie by Malibu Boats On YouTube

Just posted a new 1 minute video clip of the 2009 21 vRide on the Malibu Boats YouTube channel. See close-ups of the interior, the hull graphics and 3D spins of the boat. Check it out...

Visit the 21 vRide section of the Malibu Boats web site to learn more about this 2009 wakeboard boat. Or take a look at the Malibu Boat e-newsletter article on the 21 vRide form last month's issue.

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Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Malibu Boats Pro Team Challenge Show Teaser

Alliance Wake Magazine just posted the Malibu Pro Team Challenger Tease on their web site. The event went of a few weeks back and brought competing board company teams to Washington state to battle it out for the Pro Team Challenge Title. Each team was pulled by the official boat, Malibu, so they all went big!

Keep an eye on this blog and the Alliance Wake Magazine Web Site for air dates and times for the complete Malibu Pro Tour Challenge Show. It will be airing on Fuel TV.

For more information about the results of the 2008 Pro Team Challenge pulled by Malibu Boats visit WakeWorld.com.

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Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Wakesetter VLX Review on WakeWorld.com

Just came across this in-depth review of the 2009 Malibu Boats Wakesetter VLX on the WakeWorld.com discussion board. It is extremely detailed. Take a look!

Malibu Boats Wakesetter VLX Review

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Praising Northwest Riders Clinics

We received this great message from Cory in Great Falls, Montana about the experience he had at a couple Northwest Riders '08 Summer Tour stops. This is a wakeboarding clinic series sponsored by Malibu Boats and one of our amazing Northwest dealers, Bakes Marine. The clinics are executed by the Northwest Riders.

Here's what Cory had to say about his experience at the NWR Summer Tour clinics...

I am 18 years old and had the opportunity to attend a Malibu wakeboarding clinic in Great Falls put on by Greg Young and Brent Starr of the Northwest Riders. These guys were terrific. They helped me with my technique, I mastered a few tricks, and they gave me lots of confidence. They were 2 of the nicest guys I've ever met. I enjoyed boarding with them so much, that my family took a trip to Lake Blaine Montana to do a second clinic 2 weeks later. We had a great time again. Thank you to Malibu boats for sponsoring guys like Greg and Brent and the Northwest Riders. Keep it up!

Thanks for the e-mail, Cory!

To stay informed about wakeboarding in the Northwest visit WakeboardNorthwest.com. This site is created and maintained by the Northwest Riders.

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The 2009 Malibu Boats Web Site is Up

MalibuBoats.com has been re-imagined and recreated for 2009. The look reflects Malibu's brand of fun with amazing photography and clean graphic design. The new site is 500% faster with a load time of a little more than a second and a navigation structure has been completely redesigned for maximum user efficiency.

The entire site is more user-friendly whether you are a seasoned Malibu owner or just discovering Malibu Boats for the first time. Breadcrumb navigation resides at the bottom of every page so you can get back to the pages you came from easily. The home page is more intuitive with all popular links prominently placed and graphical representations of the four Malibu Boats model series for better informed path choice. Malibu Boats extensive social media site list is linked off the home page. This list includes, this site, the Malibu Boats blog. The 2009 web site also includes video on model pages with more clips to come.

Malibu will be adding Flickr photo galleries along with links to third-party information relating to the boat models with del.icio.us bookmarks. Look for a video enhanced factory tour and additional Malibu Difference pages featuring MaliView, Rider Presets and more. The Malibu Boats web site is a quest for perfection just like Malibu boats. Expect us to keep pushing limits even online.

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More 2009 Malibu VLX Images on Flickr

Just posted some more cool shots of the 2009 Malibu Wakesetter VLX on Flickr. These were taken at the 2009 Malibu Boats DVD Shoot last week. This Regal, Ebony and Silver Metallic boat looked amazing on the water. These images will give you another color scheme to use as an example when you are picking the color for you new VLX.

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Sunday, August 31, 2008

Malibu Boats Pushing Limits at the 2009 DVD Shoot

The 2009 Malibu Boats DVD Shoot went off last week at Lake Don Pedro in California. The temperatures were in the 100's and we were on fire getting amazing footage of 12 2009 Malibu boats in four days. We captured High Definition footage on three cameras with a small group of crew and talent. The high level of production resulting from the shoot was a direct result of the Malibu factory team, camera crew and pro athletes who attended the event. We saw these people raise their game to get the job done and the footage we have in the can is a shinning example of this effort.

Take a look at some of the behind-the-scenes images in the Malibu Boats 2009 DVD Shoot Flickr gallery.

The Malibu Factory Team roster included photo shoot veteran, camera boat driver and R&D engineer, Shane Stillman. I would compare Shane's performance at these shoots to competing in the Iron Man. He begins the morning at 5am driving the camera boat for about 5 hours. Then he spends the middle part of the day swimming boats around for jibs shots. The end of the day, which is around dark, is filled with launching and trailering boats as well as helping to prepare for the evening's shots. This guy never stops. He prepares for the DVD shoot weeks ahead of time and cleans up for days afterward. Shane puts as much energy and effort into special events like the DVD shoot as he does the interior design of Malibu boats.

We were also supported by other Malibu factory personnel like Tyler Grise, Adam Perez from Marketing and Steve Frietas from R&D. These guys went where ever they were needed, from cleaning and driving boats to posing for the camera to making gas, food and ice runs. Tyler also helped Shane swim most days, he was relived by Adam and Steve when he was needed elsewhere. These Malibu Team members stuck it out until the very end, even staying to clean the houseboat, the day after the shoot. You won't find more dedicated, hard-working employees in the marine industry.

Even the Malibu women got into the act at Lake Don Pedro last week. Daisy Gonsalves and Tisha Schortzmann, who work in Customer Service and oversee the sales of Malibu-branded merchandise, got up well before the sun every morning and still managed to look beautiful and happy in the boats. When these two weren't on the water they were helping clean the houseboat and preparing meals. They are awesome team players. Nicolette D'Heilly, one of the Malibu Boats receptionists, also helped out.

Ellery Sanchez in Marketing and Sylvia Juarez in Human Resources helped us get ready for the shoot. Ellery handles all of the pre-shoot logistics including permits talent coordination and insurance, while Sylvia helped with the huge task of shopping for our crew.

Mark Gibbs, Malibu's Northwest Sales Manager, not only ran himself raged driving and trailering boats he also did his time in front of the camera. Mark, his wife Cindy and their 4-year-old daughter Zoe were filmed in and around the DVD boats as well as speaking on camera about the boats. This Malibu family is on the road quite a bit, yet they still found time to come and help us out. We can't thank them enough for all they did last week. The results of their excitement and dedication to Malibu is evident in the footage we captured. Thanks Gibbs Family!

It's one thing to see this level of production from Malibu employees. This kind of work ethic is old news when we are talking about Malibu Boats. It's quite another phenomenon to see a group of independent contractors and companies put forth Malibu's brand of effort at a video shoot. This type of production speaks to the caliber of people Malibu Boats chooses to work with. Charles White from Mtek Studios, Mark Bame and Eric Jeffocat form Bump Films, Jack Hodgkins and Robert Beland made up the Malibu Boats 2009 DVD camera crew.

Robert Beland, who has been shooting video for Malibu Boats since our first DVD was produced in 1999, is an accomplished sports cameraman who loves to wakeboard. He is invited to the Malibu DVD each year because of his amazing talent to get great shots the first time and because he is a good guy who keeps us laughing. Robert is not your typical cameraman. This year, after he worked his behind off all day in the blazing sun capturing amazing footage, Robert finished the day barbecuing his famous chicken and mixing up salad for our dinner. And when he's between shots throughout the day, Beland drives boats, swims boats, he helps no matter what the situation.

The rest of the camera crew works up to this same level. Jack Hodgkins runs the jib and aside from schooling us all on diet, he's in great shape, he is also a team player. Between jib shots Jack was in the boat with us cleaning. No, that's not a misprint. Jack is one of the first to grab a towel and can of window cleaner to attack some windshield smudges or jump in a boat and wipe a spot from the upholstery. He does what needs to be done, like we all do. And we eat a lot better when Jack is around.

Charles White, who produces the Malibu DVD, empowers his crew to make decisions and be creative. That is one of the reasons we have such an amazing DVD to hand out at boat shows. Charles is also a very good friend of Malibu Boats and works with us through out the year on a variety of projects. He furthers the team work on this kind of shoot be helping out where help is needed. In the kitchen, on the dock, Charles is as much there to lend a hand as he is to create a fun and informative DVD.

Seasoned water sports video producers Mark Bame and Eric Jeffcoat from Bump Films have also worked with Malibu Boats for a number of years. These guys do whatever it takes to get the shot. Mark is the Camera AC in the morning, in the water shooting driver-bys during the middle of the day and on a tube shooting riders in the afternoon. He never stops... Eric is the cameraman shooting boat details and there are quite a few in our boats. He does that in the morning and then assists with the jib camera in the afternoon.

Finally, we have to mention the pro athletes who make us look so good. They show off the water sports capabilities of Malibu boats on the DVD. And this year we invited pro riders Nick Jones and Kevin Henshaw to the shoot. These guys both went off behind the boats! Check out the behind-the-scenes photos of the Kevin riding.

And because we choose to work with athletes who have as much character as they do talent, it shouldn't surprise anyone to find out that the riders at this year's DVD shoot did much more than ride. Nick and Kevin were an extension of the crew. They drove boats, puts boats on trailers, filled and emptied ice chests and helped clean up. Both of them were always asking what more they could do to help. This attitude is why they are part of the Malibu family.

This is a long post just to recap a photo shoot, but we feel it is important to share the stories of the people of Malibu Boats. It's not just about the boats. Malibu Boats is built on amazing people. Big projects like the 2009 DVD give us an opportunity push our own limits as well as the limits of the media. We've grown closer and stronger thanks to these efforts and you will have a better DVD because of this. Look for the 2009 Malibu Boats DVD at a dealership or a boat show near you this winter.

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Thursday, August 21, 2008

Malibu Wakeboard Wednesdays in Illinois

For the past four years, Kief’s Reef near Burtons Bridge, Illinois has hosted Wakeboard Wednesday. Long-time Malibu Boats Dealer, Munson Ski and Marine in Volo, Illinois brings out a Malibu wakeboarding boat and all the gear. Patrons sign a waiver and put up $15 for all the wakeboarding they can handle. It starts about 1 p.m. and continues until sunset, but patrons should call (1-888-488-BOAT) or e-mail Munson’s to find out available times.

“It’s a good day out of the boat shop,” said Don Schnurr II, Munson’s pro-shop manager who also sells Malibu boats. “We get a couple sales out of it a year. It’s all about enjoying the sunshine.”

Lakemoor resident Shannon Ronkoske stopped by Wednesday on her lunch hour. She said her 30th birthday was coming up and she wanted to try something new.

Read more about Wakeboard Wednesdays on the Northwest Herald Web Site.

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Monday, August 18, 2008

MaliView Photos Posted on Flickr

Just posted some great MaliView photos in our Flickr gallery. Check them out. Also visit the Malibu Boats YouTube channel to view MaliView in action.

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Video on the New MaliView Dash System

Just posted this short 1.5 minute video featuring MaliView, our new optional 6.5" dash system. This short clip gives you an idea of how this innovative dash component looks and functions in real life. To experience MaliView first-hand visit your nearest Malibu Boats dealer. Go to www.malibuboats.com and click the "Dealer Locator" button.

Malibu Boats is offering you "a dash with a view" in most of the 2009 model line-up. MaliView is an optional 6.5" color LCD system that allows you to graphically control, monitor and customize almost every boat function. This new in-dash LCD also gives you the ability to watch video in the boat. Play instructionals, music videos, movies even the Malibu Boats DVD. MaliView supports almost any device with video and audio out RCA connections. Talk about changing your point of view. The possibilities are endless with this latest Malibu innovation.

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Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Malibu Pro Wakeboard Team Challenge Going-off This Weekend

With $25,000 on the line, the 2nd Annual Malibu Pro Team Challenge offers one of the single biggest event purses in the sport of wakeboarding. This three part competition - boat pass, rail jam and double-up contest - will feature some of the top pro riders in the world riding for their prospective board manufacturers, a shot at the “winner-take-all” prize and bragging rights as the best team in wakeboarding for the next 12 months.

The Pro Team Challenge will take place August 16th and 17th at the Silver Lake Executive Resort in Eatonville, Washington…just South of Seattle. At Silver Lake, riders and spectators will enjoy great water conditions and a rustic Pacific Northwest setting, all nestled in the shadow of Mount Rainier. Five pro teams are scheduled to compete including defending Champions, Team Hyperlite. Teams from CWB, Gator Boards, Liquid Force and Ronix will all be on-hand to try and de-throne the Champs.

The battle kicks-off on Saturday, August 16th at 12 noon with a traditional competition run behind the tournament Malibu tow boat. Saturday evening from 6p-9p, riders will compete in a pool-to-lake rail jam and Sunday, August 17th the competition will wrap up with the always exciting, big air double-up contest.

For more information visit the Malibu Series web site or download the Malibu Pro Team Challenge PDF.

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Cool 21 vRide Color Combination

Malibu Boats' customization touches all of our boat models, including those on the "entry" level. We spotted this 2009 21 vRide going through production the other day and had to snap a few photos. This boat was built for a customer in Canada and ordered through Wizard Lake Marine. They took the new Ride gel coat style and put their own twist on it adding Silver Metallic, which is an option. The boat looks sick!

Take a look at collection of 21 vRide photos we have placed on Flickr.

We have also seen some Ride boats go through with another panel of Ebony where this Silver Metallic is. So the boat is all black except the deck and the hull base. That looks really good too.

We will continue to share cool color combinations we see on the factory floor so you can have some examples when you are building your new Malibu boat.

To learn more about the 2009 21 vRide check out the August issue of the Malibu Boats E-newsletter.

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New 2009 21 vRide Information Released

The 21 vRide is a 21-foot by 8.2-foot wakeboard boat that offers pro-level wakeboarding accommodation without the high-flying price. Malibu’s Ride Series of boats features much of what you need to bolster your riding potential, but nothing you don’t. You’ll find some of the same core riding systems on the 21 vRide that you find in Malibu’s coveted Wakesetter Series. The 2009 Ride Series from Malibu Boats is redefining entry-level.

Visit the Malibu 21 vRide Flickr gallery to see more photos of the boat.

Training partner to the stars, the 21 vRide has been the difference in many professional wakeboarding careers. Dallas Friday, Phillip Soven, Randall Harris, Chad Sharpe, Brian Grubb and Kevin Henshaw have all trained behind this 21-footer at one time since its introduction as a Wakesetter in 2005. Before being dubbed the 2009 21 vRide this boat pulled Friday to an unprecedented string of wins in 2006, Soven to a Pro Tour title in ‘07 and the legendary Randall Harris back onto the wakeboard scene. You won’t find this caliber of credentials surrounding any other entry-level wakeboard boat. The same can be said for the vRide’s list of standard features.

To read the entire news release on the 2009 21 vRide visit the August issue of the Malibu Boats E-newsletter.

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Monday, August 11, 2008

Soven Captures WWA National Title

WakeWorld.com reported that, five riders battled it out for the national title in the Pro Men's division at the WWA Wakeboard National Championships. Last year's winner, Rusty Malinoski, looked to have a repeat performance in the finals, but Team Malibu's Phillip Soven threw down a near perfect run, posting 98 points to take the top spot in the finals and ride away with his first-ever national title. Malinoski finished in second-place followed by Andrew Adkison in third.

"I have won a lot of contests and awards throughout my career, but never a national title," said Soven. "This trophy means a lot. It's a dream come true to finally win it."

Team Malibu's Brian Grub finished second in wakeskate and Team Malibu pro Dallas Friday finished third in women's wakeboard. Go Team Malibu!

To read the event's entire recap visit WakeWorld.com.

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Friday, August 8, 2008

New European Record for Will Asher

Britishwaterski.org.uk reported that having already picked up the US Masters and two wins on the US Pro Tour, Team Malibu Slalom Pro, Will Asher, continued his outstanding form this season at the British National Championships by running the 10.25 metre line length for the first time in his career.

Will then came back on the unbelievably short 9.75 metre line to post the best score of the season anywhere in the World this year managing to get his ski out round buoy one and hooking back up on the boat to complete the full buoy score. Unbelievable skiing from an athlete at the top of his game.

Here's a 2008 Team Malibu video that included Will Asher, as well as, other Team Malibu skiers and barefooters.

Congratulations, Will!

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Thursday, August 7, 2008

Wakeboard Wally Sales Training



I came across this blog post this morning. Wakeboard Wally turned sales trainer on SalesandMarketingManager.com. Looks like they pulled this video off of the Malibu Boats YouTube channel. Pretty cool!

This goes to show, we can all learn something from Wakeboard Wally. Log on to receive your Wally sales and marketing training at SalesandMarketingManager.com.

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Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Team Malibu's Randall Harris Turns Company Man


Team Malibu's Pro Rider Randall Harris, signs with Company Wakeboards. Last week Harris announced he will be signing with a brand new wakeboard manufacturer that has yet to release a product to the public, Company.

In Harris's last column on WakeWorld.com he was asked about the flex-technology that Company Wakeboards is developing. Read Randall's response on the WakeWorld.com web site.

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