X-Air c216

Melbourne-based manufacturer Skicraft has been in the boat building game for more than 40 years, so it’s always good to get the chance to check out a new offering.

We’ve looked at Skicraft’s flagship wakeboard boat – the X Air RV Wake (V-drive) – in Wake mag in the past. This issue, we have a gander at the centre-mount version of the X-Air, know as the C216 (as in Centre-mount 21.6 foot). This model is more of a sports-crossover boat than the RV Wake, so it is designed to be capable of pumping out a nice wake, but is also suited to families who still like to do a bit of skiing and what-not. We met the crew from Skicraft down at the Melbourne Watersports Centre during a chilly September morning. They also had sleek Skicraft E20 ski boat along for the day. On the trailer, the C216 cuts an impressive sight, and the custom cover with matching graphics was a nice touch.

Wake Goodies…….
While the boat was out of the water, we had the chance to check the adjustable wake-shaping plate, which sits just above the rudder and prop. The plate, which can be controlled “on the fly” via a thumb control on the hand throttle, allows the wake to be tweaked to alter the size and shape. When the plate is all the way down, it lifts the rear of the hull out of water slightly, ensuring the kind of flat wash skiers desire. With the plate up, in wakeboard position, the hull sinks lower in the water and pushes out a deeper, fuller wake. Once on the water we found the plate very easy to use, and the difference in wake size and shape was noticeable. The plate has been designed to work in conjunction with Skicraft’s impressive “Vectron” hull, and no matter what position the plate is in, the boat feels responsive and smooth.

The C216 also comes with an optional ballast system, allowing for an extra 600 litres of water to be held in front and rear tanks. This is an easy to use “pump in, pump out” set up, which is controlled via switches on the dash. The huge rear locker can also be used for an additional fat-sack if desired. Skicraft have their own “Swoop” tower, or buyers can choose a Fluid Core tower, like the one on the test boat. Fluid Core have been at the forefront of after-market tower design since day one, and their towers are of the highest quality, as well as looking schmick. Of course, towers can also be loaded up with board racks, speakers, lights and other goodies.

Inside…….
At 6.55 metres, the X-Air C216 is certainly a large boat, and even having the engine mounted in the centre doesn’t detract from the massive amount of room – for both passengers and storage – on hand. The deep sides and carefully thought out seating and storage mean that the big Skicraft feels roomy and can swallow a mountain of gear. The driver gets a quality adjustable seat and sports steering wheel. The dashboard is a traditional and stylish layout, with large analogue dials and well placed switches. The high windscreen offers plenty of protection from the wind, and good vision.

Beside the driver is a dual observer’s seat, offering the best view of the action out the back. There is a glovebox for all the items you want close at hand, and a very large locker behind the lift-up backrest, which is perfect for all your safety gear and more. Up front there is a walk through bow with more comfy seating, complete with grab rails, cup holders and speakers. Up the back there is a full width three-piece rear bench. The middle section can be removed to allow the rider to get in and out of the boat without stepping on the upholstery. As mentioned, there’s a massive hinged rear locker, which is big enough to swallow three wakeboards, if you haven’t already found room for them on the board racks. And right at the back is a big carpeted boarding platform, with convenient grab rails to help you out of the water.

Driving…….
As mentioned, the hull is very cleverly designed, and ensures the boat is a pleasure to drive. It gets up on the plane quickly and continues to provide a smooth, dry ride, even through choppy water. The tilt adjustable rack and pinion steering is very light and direct, and the boat turns extremely well considering its overall size. The test boat was running the entry level PCM 315HP carby engine, which performed faultlessly. There was plenty of power on tap, and the four blade CNC-machined 13.5 inch prop (with 17.5 inch pitch) provides plenty of low down torque, which is ideal for wakeboarding, but also offers a good mix of speed and economy. On the engine side of things, customers have the option of upgrading to the injected 343HP Excalibur motor, or maybe even go crazy with a 410HP ZR6 (6 litre) power-plant. Skicraft also offer the option of Mercruiser’s range of tow-sport engines.

Summary…….
All up the X-Air C216 is a very impressive locally built boat that offers a versatile and practical platform for wakeboarding and social boating fun. It’s big, well built and a pleasure to drive, as well as having great looks and style. Customers can also buy knowing the boats are backed by a seven-year hull warranty, in addition to the three-year warranty on PCM or Mercruiser engine.

Specs…….
Length: 6.55m (21.5ft)
Width: 2.24m
Fuel Capacity: 110 litres
Seating: 9 persons
Boat Weight: 1150kg
Weight on Trailer: 1700kg
Engine as Tested: 315HP PCM (Engine Options PCM or Mercruiser range)
Priced from: $57,845
Website: www.skicraft.com.au