After testing approximately 100 boats, extensive on-water evaluations, and months of editorial deliberation, Boating Magazine selected the Tigé Ultré ZX as its 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year.
In an industry where nearly every manufacturer claims to build the best boat on the water, recognition from an independent publication carries a different kind of significance, especially when that recognition follows a year of testing, comparison, and editorial debate.
The watersports category brings together some of the most performance-driven boats on the market, from surf boats and wake boats built around watersports performance to premium models that combine quality, technology, comfort, and versatility. Finding the boats that truly stand out requires more than comparing specifications. It requires putting them on the water and seeing how they perform in the conditions and situations they were designed to handle.
That is the foundation of Boating Magazine’s annual Boat of the Year program. Throughout the year, the publication tests about 100 boats and identifies those that stand out in their respective categories. The contenders remain subject to ongoing discussion and evaluation, with the final selections reflecting the publication’s collective testing experience and editorial deliberation.
For the Ultré ZX, that process meant competing against some of the industry’s best surf and wake boats and demonstrating its strengths in performance, technology, design, and the overall on-board experience. After that testing and deliberation, Boating Magazine named the Tigé Ultré ZX its 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year.
It was a distinction earned on the water, not simply one claimed in a brochure.
Ultré ZX Wake and Surf Performance
For a dedicated watersports boat, performance is the foundation. The Ultré ZX delivered on that expectation through a combination of substantial ballast, hull design, and integrated surf technology.
In his review of the 2025 Ultré 23ZX, Boating Magazine’s Garrett Cortese highlighted the boat’s 7,400-pound dry weight, 4,000 pounds of internal ballast, and TAPS 3T system as key contributors to its on-water performance.
The resulting wakes and waves were described as clean, crisp, and adaptable to riders of varying skill levels. Rather than requiring complicated adjustments, the boat allows riders to modify the experience through its intuitive touchscreen controls.
The GO System brings wakeboarding, wakesurfing, foiling, and skiing settings together in one interface. Riders select their discipline and skill level, and the system configures the boat accordingly, while still allowing adjustments when desired.
Luxury Wake Boat Features Designed Around the Experience
While the Ultré ZX’s performance established its credentials as a watersports boat, the review also identified a series of design decisions that distinguish it from other premium offerings.
The UltréLounge brings together several of these innovations, including the FastFlip Co-Captain’s Chair, UltréChill electric cooler, and dedicated touchscreen controls.
The FastFlip chair converts between forward- and aft-facing positions, allowing the passenger experience to change with the activity. The integrated electric cooler provides convenient access to refreshments while doubling as a footrest, with additional storage incorporated beneath the seating.
Other details reveal the same attention to how people actually use a boat. A hidden table slides out from beneath the walk-through, the aft bench converts into rear-facing seating, and the dual-facing transom seats allow passengers to face either the cockpit or the water.
These are not features designed simply to make a specification sheet longer. They address the practical moments that shape a day on the water, from entertaining a full crew to relaxing between surf sets.
Inside the Ultré ZX: Luxury, Comfort and Functionality
The Ultré ZX’s interior received particular attention in Cortese’s review.
Premium upholstery, signature stitching, soft-touch flooring, and carefully positioned bolsters contribute to the boat’s upscale feel. The deep cockpit and high gunwales provide a sense of security while cruising, while the wraparound seating creates a comfortable environment for passengers.
The bow continues that emphasis on space and functionality, with configurable seating, a padded walk-through, and dedicated anchor storage.
At the stern, a large surf locker accommodates boards and watersports equipment, while the powered platform’s optional integrated step makes entering and exiting the water more comfortable.
With seating for up to 16 people aboard the Ultré 23ZX and 18 people in the Ultré 25ZX, the layout reflects an understanding that a watersports boat must serve more than the person behind the wheel or the rider behind the boat.
It must work for everyone aboard.
What Sets the Ultré ZX Apart From Other Premium Wake Boats
One of the more revealing observations in Cortese’s review was his comparison of the Ultré 23ZX with other premium-class boats. The Ultré ZX stands out against its competition not simply because of the number of features it offers, but because of how those features work together to improve the experience on the water.
That distinction is central to understanding the Boat of the Year recognition.
A boat can have an impressive feature list. It can make a strong first impression at a boat show. But the purpose of an independent on-water evaluation is to determine how those features translate into the ownership and operating experience.
For the Ultré ZX, the review tested that combination across multiple dimensions, including surf performance, ease of operation, interior comfort, storage, passenger functionality, and thoughtful innovation. The Ultré performed exceptionally well across those areas, helping distinguish it from other premium wake boats and ultimately supporting its selection as Watersports Boat of the Year.
How the Ultré ZX Earned 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year
For Tigé Boats, the Ultré ZX’s recognition as Boating Magazine’s 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year represents a significant milestone. But the importance of the award extends beyond the title itself.
The selection reflects a process built around independent testing, experienced editorial judgment, and direct comparison within the boating industry.
It recognizes a boat that demonstrated its capabilities not through a manufacturer’s claims, but through the experience of putting it on the water and evaluating what it delivers.
And that is ultimately what makes Boat of the Year meaningful.
The Ultré ZX did not simply enter the conversation. After a year of testing and deliberation, it emerged as the boat selected to represent the best of the watersports category.
That is what it means to earn Boat of the Year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What boat won the 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year?
The Tigé Ultré 23ZX was named Boating Magazine’s 2025 Watersports Boat of the Year following the publication’s annual boat testing and editorial evaluation process.
How is the Watersports Boat of the Year selected?
Boating Magazine tests approximately 100 boats throughout the year, identifying standout models within their respective categories. Its editorial team discusses and evaluates the contenders before selecting the boats recognized as Boat of the Year.
What makes the Tigé Ultré ZX one of the best luxury wakesurf boats?
The Ultré ZX combines a performance-focused hull, 4,000 pounds of internal ballast, TAPS 3T technology, and the intuitive GO System to deliver customizable wakes and waves. Its premium interior, innovative seating, integrated cooler, and functional storage further distinguish it among luxury watersports boats.
What is the difference between the Tigé Ultré 23ZX and Ultré 25ZX?
The Ultré 23ZX and Ultré 25ZX are two models within Tigé’s flagship Ultré ZX lineup. The 23ZX measures 23 feet 5 inches and accommodates up to 16 people, while the 25ZX offers a larger 25-foot platform with seating for up to 19.
Is the Tigé Ultré ZX designed for wakesurfing and wakeboarding?
Yes. The Ultré ZX is designed for multiple watersports, including wakesurfing, wakeboarding, foiling, and skiing. Its GO System allows users to select their preferred activity and skill level, helping configure the boat’s performance for different riders.
