Can You Wakeboard in the Ocean? How To Make it Work

Can you wakeboard in the ocean? Wakeboarding originated as a water sport for lakes and calm waters, but it has evolved to become popular in oceans too. Learn about the equipment, techniques, and safety considerations for wakeboarding in the ocean. Discover the best ocean locations, how to choose the right boat and gear, tips for beginners, and if wakeboarding in the ocean is right for you. Our guide covers everything you need to know about wakeboarding in the ocean and how to have an epic experience shredding waves and catching air.

Finding the Best Boat for Ocean Wakeboarding

A key requirement for wakeboarding in the ocean is having a suitable boat. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a wakeboarding boat for the ocean:

• Outboard Motor – An inboard/outboard or outboard motor is best for handling ocean swells and wakeboarding. Outboards are also easier to maintain in salt water.
• Wakeboard Boats – Look for boats designed specifically for wakeboarding with ballast tanks and wake shaping hulls like the Malibu Wakesetter or Mastercraft XStar. This will maximize your ocean wake.
• Size – A boat at least 21 feet long will provide a smoother ride in ocean waves. Bigger is better for stability.
• V-Hull – A deep V-hull will cut through waves and chop more smoothly for wakeboarding.
• Saltwater Use – Choose boats built for saltwater environments, with sealed electrical systems and stainless steel hardware.

With the right boat, you can successfully wakeboard in the ocean and have a blast!

Essential Safety Gear for Ocean Wakeboarding

To wakeboard safely in the ocean, you need to take proper precautions:

• Life Jacket – A USCG-approved life jacket is mandatory for all riders and passengers in open ocean conditions.
• Towing Rope – Use a heavy-duty wakeboard rope designed for saltwater use. Rope length should be 65-85 feet.
• Anchor – A Fortress-style anchor with at least 10 feet of chain will hold securely in ocean bottoms.
• Flares – Carry a waterproof case of visual distress flares on board in case of emergency.
• First Aid Kit – Always have a first aid kit equipped for injuries that could occur during water sports.
• Emergency Communications – Have a marine VHF radio to contact the coast guard if needed. A satellite phone can provide backup.

Don’t take safety lightly when wakeboarding in the ocean. Prepare for the unexpected.

Finding the Best Ocean Wakeboarding Locations

Not all stretches of ocean coastline are ideal for wakeboarding. Here are some things to look for:

• Protected Areas – Wakeboard in harbors, coves, intercoastal waterways, or other protected areas to minimize wind and waves.
• Depth – Water depth should be at least 15 feet for safe wakeboarding. Shallow water can be hazardous.
• Clean Water – Avoid polluted waters and areas with hazardous marine life like jellyfish or sharks.
• Limited Boat Traffic – Find ocean spots with light boat traffic to safely ride wakes.
• Sandy Bottom – Sandy ocean bottoms are best for safe falls. Avoid areas with coral reefs or rocks.
• Consistent Conditions – The ocean can be fickle, so have backup spots in case conditions change.

With some scouting, you can discover amazing ocean wakeboarding spots. Our top picks in the USA include Lake Worth Lagoon in Florida, Newport Harbor in California, and the Jersey Shore in New Jersey. Explore and find your own perfect ocean wakeboarding destination!

5 Tips for Wakeboarding in the Ocean

Once you have the right boat and location, here are some key tips to make your ocean wakeboarding experience epic:

1. Check Ocean Conditions

Know before you go! Check wave height, wind, and current conditions to ensure safe wakeboarding conditions. Avoid riding in over 6 foot seas.

2. Load Proper Ballast

Fill your wakeboard boat’s ballast tanks to create a large wake for ocean riding. Heavier loading helps shape a clean wake in moving water.

3. Start With a Shorter Rope

Use a 55-65 foot tow rope to start in the ocean, and lengthen as skills improve. Shorter ropes are easier to manage in waves.

4. Use a Spotter

Have an eagle-eyed spotter on your boat to watch for other vessels, monitor the rider, and communicate hazards.

5. Wear a Wetsuit

A full wetsuit will keep you warm in colder ocean temps. Look for specially designed wakeboard wetsuits.

Follow these tips and you’ll be sh shredding wakes in the ocean in no time!

Is Saltwater Wakeboarding Different?

Riding ocean waves does require some adjustment from traditional freshwater wakeboarding:

• The ocean wake is less defined – you may need to edge more aggressively to hold the wake.
• Wind and currents can push you off the wake – be prepared to make adjustments.
• Saltwater is more buoyant – you will find yourself higher on the water surface.
• Falls hurt more in saltwater – wetsuits and lifejackets help minimize the sting.
• Equipment requires more maintenance to prevent corrosion after use in saltwater.
• Dehydration happens faster in ocean air – drink plenty of fluids before and after riding.

With practice, you can adapt your technique to excel at wakeboarding in the ocean!

Getting Started with Ocean Wakeboarding

If you’ve mastered wakeboarding on lakes and want a new challenge, take your skills to the ocean! With the right boat, gear, conditions and preparation, ocean wakeboarding can become your new favorite adrenaline-pumping water sport.

Remember to prioritize safety, choose locations wisely, and adjust your technique for saltwater wave riding. Respect the power of the ocean, but don’t be intimidated. With the proper precautions, you can enjoy this unique experience that takes wakeboarding to the next level.

Let Wakeboard Traveller know if you have any other questions about Can You Wakeboard in the Ocean. We’re always happy to share tips to help more wakeboarders discover the joy of riding ocean waves!