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WATERSKI MagazineAir Nautique 226 Team
OVERVIEW
Wakeboarders who want a bigger interior and bigger wakes get both with the top-of-the-line Air Nautique 226 Team. It's nearly a foot longer and almost 4 inches wider than the next largest Correct Craft model. While creating pro-level wakes behind the boat, that extra space opens up terrific passenger room on it.
Up to 12 passengers get their choice of three great seating areas: the cushy open bow with stainless-steel grab rails, cup holders and speakers; the wide observer's seat that wraps around along the port side; and the curved rear bench behind the well-appointed driver's console. The 226 also has a welcome walkway and step-down to the swim platform. There's also a 100-quart cooler and 65 cubic feet of storage.
With all that going for it, the Team package — with its tower, 900-pound ballast system and extensive stereo upgrade — seems like an embarrassment of riches. But you'll learn to live with it.
SKIING
Skiing is of course a possibility with the 226, since it still has a manageable beam and more than holds its own in the open water with impressive tracking. No, it's not the 196, but it's nowhere near an I/O either. Any family looking to mix in some recreational skiing amid the wakeboarding, tubing and cruising will find all they're looking for in the 226.
WAKEBOARDING
Pro riders put the 226 to the test at the 2004 Vans Triple Crown WWA Wakebording World Championships. These big swells are definitely worthy of the best riders. The wake has a nice peak that really boots you. Even with the large wakes, the landing zone isn't too steep, so riders can touch down softly. Tracking-wise, the boat wouldn't budge with a rider in tow.
LOWDOWN
• This fully accessorized 226 is the biggest wakeboarding machine in the Correct Craft lineup.
• Wakeboarding performance is pro-approved.
• Bring along all your friends to kick back in the 12-passenger interior.
• Team package packs on a tower and ballast up to 900 pounds.
• Ultimate stereo setup includes amp, subwoofer, tower speakers and audio input jacks for your MP3 player.
• Dash includes digital readouts and full diagnostic information, along with keyless ignition.
PERFORMANCE
Top Speed 45.4 mph 5,200 rpm
Accel. to 30 mph 6.9 sec. 168.0 ft.
Accel. to 36 mph 9.0 sec. 266.0 ft.
Noise Levels (db) Neutral 61 D 63 R, 36 mph 83 D 85 R
SPECS
Length 22 ft. 6.5 in. Beam 96.5 in.
Seating Capacity 12
Fuel Capacity 50 gal.
Test Prop Acme 13.5 x 17.5 4-blade
Test Engine PCM ZR6 6.0L, 375 HP
