CLOSE
Sign up to get news on contests, pro events, new products and special offers.
WATERSKI Magazine
Svfara SV696
Hard-core Wakeboard
www.waterskimag.com/boats/sfvarasv696
There are a few wakeboarding dream boats on the market, and they all have familiar names. Then there's one you haven't heard of … that's the Sfvara SV696. This innovative direct-drive surprised us by proving it's a pure riding machine. But don't confuse “pure” with “bare bones” — the boat is loaded with features. Most notable is its seating arrangement, which features two forward-facing loungers in the bow with immense storage below. A sun deck is incorporated into the engine box, and behind it is a V-drive-style wraparound seating pit. At the stern there's a true walk-through to the swim platform as well as a freshwater sink with a nice-sized countertop. Its dash is loaded, with a Dino steering wheel and Faria gauges. Another set of gauges is interestingly configured on the engine box. While the SV696 handles as one might expect of a 23-foot by 102-inch-wide boat, it still is capable of recreational slalom performance to go along with its great wakeboarding and first-class amenities.
Wakeboarding
Rarely do we rate a direct-drive as having a truly pro-level wake, but the SV696 is everything any rider could ever want, producing wakes surprisingly close to perfection. When fully loaded this boat produces wakes that are extremely big and solid with a smooth transition at any line length. The ramps are really long and they have a good solid lip with a nice, clean landing zone. The boat has four ballast tanks contributing around 1,100 pounds to form the large swells. The ballast gauges are readily accessible for your entire crew of riders with unique placement on the engine box.
Lowdown
*World-class wakeboarding performance with wakes suitable for all levels of riding.
*The SV696 incorporates a V-drive feel in a direct-drive boat with its stern lounge.
*More storage space needed in the locker next to the engine box.
*The automotive vinyl interior and design are unique in the marine industry.
*When fully loaded with factory and additional ballast, be mindful of making fluid turns to the right.
