New Boat Shopping-2017' deals

[Pock]

Hi all,

I'm new here and am in the process of shopping for a new boat. I have owned other boats, but this will be my first boat of this design. We have looked at Malibu, Axis, Supra, and Moomba. For the money we want to spend I think we've liking a 2017 Mojo. I have researched all kinds of listings and lurked on forums trying to make sure I'm educated before I make a purchase. My question is, with 2018 models coming in, what kind of deal/sale would be considered good on a 2017 considering they are only a few weeks from being last years model? I know options make a big price difference but I assume being anywhere near full MSRP would be a horrible deal. I guess what I'm asking is if I was to build a boat on the Moomba site and it cost $XXXXXXX, what kind of room does a dealer have right off the bat for negotiations and then how much more will they move at the end of the year?

Thanks all!

[sivs1]

Welcome, where are you from? That will drive a big piece of your question.

Another option is to wait until the boat show in your area and see if there are any left over 17's.

a 17 Mojo will range from 65k up to 91k.

[Pock]

Thank you, I live in Northwest Louisiana, so I have Texas, and Arkansas nearby. I was considering just waiting until the Dallas boat show in Feb to see what kind of deals are available or even just ordering a 2018 exactly the way we want. With toys like these that are not only expensive, but depreciate quickly, I need to make sure I'm not over paying.

[KG's Supra24]

Greg Orr Marine currently has some 2016 boats they are blowing out .... They may be all Supra's, though.

[Pock]

Thank you. I visited them this weekend. I think the 2016's were Supra's. One of them was in really poor shape for being new. Sad!

[jwl019]

I am from the east side of northern LA, so I have a clue about where you are talking about. I think Bayou has a Helix left in inventory and I hear they may no longer be our Supra/Moomba dealer. For me, that puts Gregg Orr as my Supra dealer and B & L Marine in Monroe as my Moomba dealer. I did not even realize I had a Moomba dealer in my back yard up until last week when I designed a Craz after looking at one at Gregg Orr while I was up on Lake Ouachita camping. I will be talking to B & L possibly this week getting a price on a new Craz/Mojo. I have still yet to figure out the normal % off on the SC products. I have been shopping Malibu's for a while now and know about what they come off. If the Craz or Mojo can come in under the new Malibu 21 VLX (around $80k but to me is nicer on interior than Moomba plus I am just used to the Malibu wakes), or come in under an Axis T22/T23 price, then I may go with a Moomba.

[KG's Supra24]

You can get a new Bu for 80k?

I compared with the Axis when I was shopping and the fit and finish were a big part of why I went Moomba. But that fit and finish wouldn't compare to a Bu.

[jwl019]

You can get a new Bu for 80k?

I compared with the Axis when I was shopping and the fit and finish were a big part of why I went Moomba. But that fit and finish wouldn't compare to a Bu.

Yeah that new '21 VLX for $80k is a good deal on a boat fairly loaded with a better fit and finish than the Moomba. It isn't as nice as the normal '22, but it beats the budget boats out. Hoping to stay lower than that though which is why the Axis and Moomba have been getting a close look this time.

[KnoxMojo]

Have you been in that Malibu 21 vlx? 21ft long with a 98" beam, that's smaller than the Mondo, but no denying the fit and finish. I would also look at a lightly used 2015 or newer Supra SC400

[Pock]

If you're looking for a Malibu the dealer here in Bossier City has two of the 2016 23 foot models (sorry not familiar with Malibu) for smoking deals. The LSU colored Malibu is $89k and loaded and they has a silver/black one for low $90's. They claim they want to make a deal. Just out of my price range.

[jwl019]

Have you been in that Malibu 21 vlx? 21ft long with a 98" beam, that's smaller than the Mondo, but no denying the fit and finish. I would also look at a lightly used 2015 or newer Supra SC400

I have, it does feel a bit narrow, but it is actually only 2" more narrow than my current VLX. I think I could deal with it for the other features it has if I decide to go with the full $80k budget. I am really hoping to stay a good bit under that though. I would definitely considering a used SC/newer SA/SG/SE if I were to find one in range.

Right now for $80k and under, here are what I have on the list so far in no particular order:
1) '17-18 21' VLX
2) leftover '16-17 VLX if I can find one when rebates come out soon
3) '17-18 Moomba Craz/Mojo
4) used SC/SA/SG/SE
5) used '15 Malibu LSV (might fall in range in next months)
5) used '14 G21 (this will be hard if I have to trade mine in and purchase from a dealer, but might could hit this range from an individual in the next month or two).
6)


If you're looking for a Malibu the dealer here in Bossier City has two of the 2016 23 foot models (sorry not familiar with Malibu) for smoking deals. The LSU colored Malibu is $89k and loaded and they has a silver/black one for low $90's. They claim they want to make a deal. Just out of my price range.
I knew the '17 LSV would be out of my price range that I am willing to spend anyway. I have seen that LSU colored one (think they have an Axis that same color too) and although I love some LSU football, my boat does not need to look like my football teams colors!

[KnoxMojo]

There is a 2015 grey and dark red SC400 on only inboards for around $78K at Premier Watersports, you could probably get it for closer to $74K or so if you were willing to drive as it is in Knoxville, TN.....drive up for the LSU-UT game, go home with a sweet boat! I want to buy it, but wife told me to keep the Mojo.

[KG's Supra24]

What boat attributes are most important to you? Wake, wave, interior plushness, electronic features, freeboard, handling, warranty, etc

[Pock]

What boat attributes are most important to you? Wake, wave, interior plushness, electronic features, freeboard, handling, warranty, etc


If this question is for me, fit and finish on a boat in my price range is probably the most important. My wife and I are new to watersports (we both wish we would have tried this earlier) so I don't think we'd notice much difference in performance from brand to brand.

[KnoxMojo]

You need to demo every boat you can to make an informed decision. Drive them down a lake with chop, a smooth section, set it up to surf and board, find a quite cove and just sit....you'll be amazed at the things that begin to actually make a difference to you.

[patrick232]

Don't cross the Mondo off the list with the squared off front at 20 1/2' it feels bigger inside that the VLX 21.

[KG's Supra24]

If this question is for me, fit and finish on a boat in my price range is probably the most important. My wife and I are new to watersports (we both wish we would have tried this earlier) so I don't think we'd notice much difference in performance from brand to brand.

In your price range, imo, you will have to value how much a full warranty means to you. A gently used Supra sounds more like your preferred boat if you like the interior appointments. There is definitely a difference.

My personal experience in regards to that topic .... Both me and my best bud had 06 Supras. I went into a 16 Mojo at the same time he got into a 15 Supra. My 16 Mojo is awesome until I get into his. I'd much rather be in his Supra (i like the nice appointments also). However, when talking with other friends that come on the boat, they look around and wonder what could possible be much better. So fit and finish can be quite relative.

There have been a couple others on here that have gone between recent model Moomba and Supras that might have some good insight in those regards.

Size is also a big consideration. I didn't realize the 21' VLX mentioned was also a 98" beam ... thats small, I wouldn't consider it for the way we use the boat. Depending on your group size, the difference between a Supra SC and Moomba Mojo (21 vs 23) is significant if you are spending a full day on the water.

[Pock]

In your price range, imo, you will have to value how much a full warranty means to you. A gently used Supra sounds more like your preferred boat if you like the interior appointments. There is definitely a difference.

My personal experience in regards to that topic .... Both me and my best bud had 06 Supras. I went into a 16 Mojo at the same time he got into a 15 Supra. My 16 Mojo is awesome until I get into his. I'd much rather be in his Supra (i like the nice appointments also). However, when talking with other friends that come on the boat, they look around and wonder what could possible be much better. So fit and finish can be quite relative.

There have been a couple others on here that have gone between recent model Moomba and Supras that might have some good insight in those regards.

Size is also a big consideration. I didn't realize the 21' VLX mentioned was also a 98" beam ... thats small, I wouldn't consider it for the way we use the boat. Depending on your group size, the difference between a Supra SC and Moomba Mojo (21 vs 23) is significant if you are spending a full day on the water.

Thank you for the reply. I agree about your point on warranty because it is important to me. I also agree with you about how nice the Supra's are and I do like them better as well. But my wife, like your friends, can't find enough difference between the Moomba Line and more expensive brands to justify the cost difference. To her boat is a means to have fun, not live in. We also feel if we consider a used Supra and give up warranty, we should consider a used Moomba and save more money. Might not exactly be logical but if we go used I want a bargain. We do need to try to get to the dealers and get on the water. They ones where we can are about 4 hours away so it's not real easy.

As for all the VLX talk, I'm not sure who that is, but it did kinda hi-jack my post lol.

I hope some of the others you mention jump on and provide their insight.

-James

[jwl019]

As for all the VLX talk, I'm not sure who that is, but it did kinda hi-jack my post lol.

Sorry Pock, did not mean to hi-jack your tread. I had referenced the other option in post #6 as one of my alternative choices I am really having to consider to stay in a certain price range since it is in the same/lower range as a full MSRP price of some of the Moomba's.

If your ever on the opposite side of the state one weekend, you are more than welcome to join me for surf/wakeboard session and I will gladly point out the lists of things I like/don't like about my boat, all of which are subjective and first world problems as ALL these newer boats are nicer and more advanced than some of my previous boats!

Good luck on your search.

[Pock]

Sorry Pock, did not mean to hi-jack your tread. .

No worries at all man. I didn't write that to come off as rude. Just trying to keep the advice coming my way straight. It's a forum, you're more than welcome to post lol. Thanks a ton for the invite. I might have to take you up on it!

-James

[ejj]

So--you have some options. Personally, I'd look at the new boats--the materials keep getting nicer every year. More importantly, the new boats are coming with features that make surfing so much easier to manage without enormous bags of water on the floor and seats. And better warranties.

Width is an important thing to consider, but it is not a perfect measurement of space. Check the interior width of these boats too. The Mondo is a nice package at 99". It comes with a lot of nice goodies. The Helix is enormous for it's size. You need to get in the boats to really feel it.

Other boats--the VLX21. nice boat, but suddenly you are in the $85K area with tax and tip. Again, get in the boats and you get a sense of space. Also the NXT20. Don't just look at the measurements and MSRP online. They all have upsides.

[jonbmcd]

Other boats--the VLX21. nice boat, but suddenly you are in the $85K area with tax and tip.

Wait - now we have to tip when purchasing a boat?? lol

[kaneboats]

I always do. Just seem appropriate. ;)

[trayson]

Wait - now we have to tip when purchasing a boat?? lol

Just the "tip"...

[ejj]

Wait - now we have to tip when purchasing a boat?? lol

Ha! I deleted my first comment before posting. Use your imagination.

[BrettLee3232]

Just the "tip"...

Just for a second...


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[Isaguel]

The OP stated fit and finish to be his most important deciding factors. I will tell you, do not underestimate the importance of size, especially since your budget puts you well above the average for most mid range 23'boats. After owning my Mojo, It would be tough to trade for a 21 footer no matter the fit and finish. I would most decisively not even remotely consider trading in for a 21' Bu, MC, nautique or Supra.
Those extra 2' do not seem like much, but within the limited space boats offer, it makes a big difference. When having 2-3 families with us, my 13 y/o daugter likes to chill in the bow with 2-3 of her friends, adults fit comfortably in the cabin with room to spare. THe 400 engine is plenty to pull a skier,waker or surfer, even with a full crew. And regarding the fit and finish, when my Mojo is cleaned and detailed inside, I think its beautiful. I cant stop at a gas station without someone asking about the boat and offering a complement.
I paid thousands less for my '15 Mojo than what you quoted on that 21 LSV. The only 2 options my Mojo did not come with were the 440 engine and the Carpet was just the standard grey carpet. Otherwise nicely optioned as it was a dealer demo. I bought it in August in Minnessota so the dealer was very motivated to offer a very generous discount.
Would I trade for an MC X-23, or a Bu 23 lsv, or supra SE, heck yeah!, If I could, but they're out of my budget.

[smokedog2]

I bought new just before the boat show, got what I wanted with a pick of the litter on the lot. Been very happy for 12 years. They are a great investment in your family, if you use them.

[northern mondo owner]

I can tell you in the north pricing is getting nuts on a Moomba. Several buds of mine said they are close to what malibu will blow out boats for and malibu resales higher. All boats perform well. The maliby, supra, moomba are top performers but when pricing becomes close it's malibu due to resale. Just is what it is. My buds and I will be looking for 2 or three left over craz or bout of market max and if we can't get them we know left over malibu on bulk deal will sell. We seen boats vary from what we are all quoted but similar builds 20k. That just says bad business and go somewhere else. Mokmba needs to keep its entry pricing and value purchase to the end user and not dealer or malibu will gain again and MB is stepping up. Selling the corolla model for the Lexus price means I'll just by the Mercedes

[lsvboombox]

I just picked up a 2017 craz on an end of season deal for WELL under the 80K mark.... wetsound speakers, auto wake 2.0 surf package

[shockthis]

On 2018 models, what % off of msrp considered a really good deal. I just ordered my SL and was curious what % off everyone would think a good deal is?

[jmvotto]

I'll play if you give us your answer

For a new model Supra 20%

[flynnva]

Talking to dealers of different manufacturers around here, it seems that 8% to 12% is what you are getting depending on the make/dealer. In the spring it's very close to MSRP. The big variable seems to be what different dealers charge for processing fees and freight and set-up.

[patrick232]

I'll play if you give us your answer

For a new model Supra 20%

I wish it was that on a current model Supra, it's close to a close out maybe.

On the Moomba 5%-7% I have seen.

[zabooda]

I wish it was that on a current model Supra, it's close to a close out maybe.

On the Moomba 5%-7% I have seen.

Oh wow. I do that throughout the year on purchases. The end of the year purchases should be at least 10%.

[stevemarich]

I would think for an early 18 model the 8-12% would be pretty good, need to consider how you were treated on the trade too if you traded your old boat, my boat show deal in feb for a 17 was close to 9% off msrp for the boat purchase , but considering what they did for my trade and other perks in the end it came out around 17% after crunching all the numbers, got a much better deal with a boat they had on inventory vs ordering one too, couldn't get better than 10% overall when trying to order what I wanted during the boat show.

[wolfeman131]

On 2018 models, what % off of msrp considered a really good deal. I just ordered my SL and was curious what % off everyone would think a good deal is?

I never understand this. What does it matter if the MSRP is, in one's opinion, over-inflated to begin with? If you pay $50,000 OTD for a new boat do you feel better if the MSRP was $150,000 than you would if the MSRP was $100,000? In my mind, my pocket is still short $50,000. I deal with this at the boat shows when someone has a budget and can get what they want within that limit, but will stretch to something much higher in cost because the more expensive boat is "a better deal" or "they offer a bigger discount."

[trayson]

I never understand this. What does it matter if the MSRP is, in one's opinion, over-inflated to begin with? If you pay $50,000 OTD for a new boat do you feel better if the MSRP was $150,000 than you would if the MSRP was $100,000? In my mind, my pocket is still short $50,000. I deal with this at the boat shows when someone has a budget and can get what they want within that limit, but will stretch to something much higher in cost because the more expensive boat is "a better deal" or "they offer a bigger discount."

I think it's pretty straight forward actually. MSRP is a readily available, quantifiable number. And percentage off that number gives people (in a scalable manner) a benchmark for what kind of pricing others are getting.

For example, if buyer #1 is looking at a Supra that has an MSRP of $100k and gets it for 10% off, they've paid $90k. That end price itself isn't as interesting or significant to others as the percentage. Because Buyer #2 that's looking at a $80k supra would hope to be able to get a similar percentage and buy his for $72k.

Now, we realize that markup on different elements of a boat are going to vary, but what people tend to experience is that different dealers are willing to discount their boats more relative to their cost because maybe they sell a higher volume or have a different business model.

Buyers will always want to know how good of deal is realistic and that's one way to quantify it. It's not about buying more boat than you can afford, it's more about trying to get the BEST deal on the boat you're considering.

[mattsask]

I got 15% off msrp when I bought my 16 craz in February 2016. Didn't take a whole lot of negotiating to get there either.

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[Prospersigman]

I got a little over 22% off on my 2017 Supra in July right when the 2018 models were starting to hit the dealers. They also gave me over payoff on my 1 year old Mojo that I bought from them...unfortunately for the dealer it is still for sale on their used lot.

I almost forgot...the dealer also threw in the 20 hour and 100 hour service as well :cool:

[sivs1]

So not to stir up controversy, if I go to the SDC web site and look up 2017 models and enter a bunch of options I'm seeing at least a $15,000 mark-up and in some cases over $50k. I was offered trade in on my SA, between trade in and low retail NADA based rates there was a $15,000 spread.