Powered by a 425-hp Indmar engine, the Malibu Response SS will debut at the Malibu Open June 8-10.

Powered by a 425-hp Indmar engine, the Malibu Response SS will debut at the Malibu Open June 8-10.



MERCED, Calif. — Malibu Boats is introducing a dedicated tow boat for ski flying, the "faster and farther" version of water-ski jumping. Called the Response Sky Sport, the model will debut at the Malibu Open June 8-10 at the Water's Edge in Joliet, Ill.

The manufacturer currently is building three professional ski fly boats for competitions such as the Malibu Open and America's Cup, as well as a personal boat for Team Malibu flier Michael McCormick.

The Response SS features a four-gelcoat.

The Response SS features a four-gelcoat.



Malibu logos are applied to the boat in billet aluminum.

Malibu logos are applied to the boat in billet aluminum.



The foundation for the Response SS is the Malibu Response SV23 Diamond hull. The boat is powered by a 425-hp Indmar engine based on an 8.1-litre General Motors big-block. During preliminary trials a prototype model reportedly ran more than 60 mph. Mechanical highlights include a CNC-machine four-blade propeller, "Corvette Speed Gear" and stainless-steel exhaust.

The Response SS is equipped with a National Hot Rod Association-style drag racing seat to support the driver's entire body. This seat is contoured and specially reinforced to provide a comfortable ride and optimum control. The boat's high sky pylon is specially reinforced for added strength and stability

Billet aluminum Malibu logos accent the boat's four-color gelcoat.