Wakeboarding in Miami

Why a tow boat, not a yacht

A good wake needs a boat built to make one, with a tower for the rope, ballast and a driver who tows riders every day. A cruising yacht is not set up for it, so wakeboarding is booked as its own session with a tow boat that meets you at its marina, or joins the yacht’s day where the plan allows. The team lines it up with the charter. The other activities are on Miami water sports.

Beginners and riders

First-timers start with a deep-water start lesson, low speed and a long rope; most stand up within a few tries. Experienced riders ask for the speed, the rope length and the side of the wake they like. Tell the team the number of riders and their levels so the session is long enough for everyone to have turns.

Rules for towing

Every rider wears a life jacket. A spotter rides aboard besides the driver to watch the rider and signal falls, and Florida does not allow towing from 90 minutes after sunset until sunrise, so sessions run in daylight. The driver keeps clear of swimmers, channels and slow-speed zones.

Sessions and price

Sessions are sold by the hour, with the driver, the spotter, the boards and the life jackets, and quoted for your date and group. Calm mornings give the best water. For skis instead of a board, see water skiing in Miami.

Making a day of it

Ride in the morning, then join the yacht for the sandbar, lunch and a slow cruise home. For a group celebration, plan the rest of the day on Miami yacht parties.