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When it comes to selecting a cruise-control system for your boat, there is certainly no shortage of options. From the standard rpm-based systems that come stock in most boat manufacturer’s models, to the GPS-monitored systems offered in the PerfectPass and Zero Off lines, finding the right equipment for your needs has never been easier.
Standard Cruise Control
Most boat manufacturers now offer their own version of cruise control as standard equipment. These systems are rpm-based and offer a smooth, consistent pull. Suitable for recreational skiers, these systems take the pressure off the driver while allowing skiers, wakeboarders and wake surfers to improve their skills.
Pros: Ease of use: no complicated settings to figure out. Remarkably smooth pull.
Cons: Not tournament compliant. No integrated slalom or jump timing system.
PerfectPass
The originator of the water-sports cruise-control system, PerfectPass set the industry standard in terms of innovation and design. Offering two different models with different skiers in mind, PerfectPass has retrofit systems for virtually any ski boat make and model.
1. PerfectPass Cruise
This system offers one of the most basic and user-friendly setups on the market. Its operating system is akin to the one in your automobile; simply get to your desired speed and push a single button. Aimed toward the recreational skier, this system is ideal for beginner skiers, boarders and surfers.
Pros: Press and play simplicity: one-button speed setting. Consistent pull.
Cons: Not tournament compliant. No integrated slalom or jump timing system.
2. PerfectPass Stargazer
The flagship PerfectPass model, Stargazer employs GPS technology to monitor and maintain boat speed to exacting specifications. This GPS cruise-control system is heralded by some of the world’s top skiers for its smooth pull and easy feel. This system is an excellent choice for highly advanced competitive skiers and wakeboarders or anyone looking to take on-water exploits to the next level.
Pros: Accurate GPS-monitored speed maintenance. Tournament compliant. Integrated slalom/jump timing system.
Con: Only available for boats manufactured prior to 2009.
Zero Off
The newest player to enter the water-sports industry, Zero Off introduced the world’s first GPS-based cruise-control system at the end of 2006, and is now the exclusive supplier to tournament ski boats and wakeboard boats. To the competitive skier or boarder, this means you will be riding behind this system at the majority of tournaments you enter, making it your system of choice if you want to practice behind the same system you’ll be competing behind. An easy-to-operate GPS-based system, Zero Off is praised for its incredibly balanced, symmetrical towing performance.
Pros: Accurate GPS-monitored speed maintenance. Used in the majority of tournaments worldwide. No timing magnets required for integrated slalom/jump timing system.
Con: Multiple-skier setting options require ski-pull familiarization time.
By: Trent Finlayson Photo: Todd Ristorcelli
