In an exciting move that marks a potential milestone for the towed water sports industry, Supra Boats, the renowned premium towboat brand under Skiers Choice, Inc is announcing the groundbreaking collaboration with Volvo Penta, global leader in marine propulsion technology. This partnership introduces an innovative concept that brings Volvo Penta\u2019s revolutionary Forward Drive technology to Supra\u2019s flagship SE model, creating a bridge between familiar sterndrive handling and the superior performance of a dedicated towboat.<\/p>\n
Breaking Down Barriers to Premium Towboats<\/h2>\n
For years, boaters accustomed to sterndrive and outboard platforms have been hesitant to make the transition to premium inboard towboats, despite their superior wakesurfing and wakeboarding capabilities. The different handling characteristics and unfamiliar feel have created a significant barrier to entry for this segment of the market.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe purpose of the concept boat build was to explore solving the age-old problem of inboard boat handling intimidation for sterndrive boaters without sacrificing surf waves or wakeboard wake performance,\u201d said Rob Loucks, R&D Project Manager at Skier\u2019s Choice. \u201cThis was not an easy task and required us to develop new technologies which are patent pending.\u201d<\/p>\n
Read Next:<\/strong> Surfing with Forward Drive<\/a><\/p>\n This innovative collaboration was developed to create a concept boat that proves it is possible to solve these challenges. By integrating Volvo Penta\u2019s Forward Drive technology into the Supra SE, the collaboration delivers the best of both worlds: the familiar, intuitive handling characteristics that sterndrive boaters know and love, combined with the exceptional wake performance and luxury that define Supra\u2019s premium towboat lineup.<\/p>\n Volvo Penta\u2019s Forward Drive features forward-facing dual counter-rotating propellers positioned 26.5 inches ahead of traditional sterndrive propeller placement. This innovative configuration provides exceptional maneuverability, adjustable trim for improved cruising ride characteristics, overall top end speed, improved fuel efficiency, and quieter operation\u2014all while delivering handling characteristics familiar to sterndrive boaters.<\/p>\n Read Next:<\/strong> More Supra Boats<\/a><\/p>\n When pairing Supra\u2019s patented technologies and patent pending technologies combined with the flagship Supra SE model\u2014the largest boat in the Supra lineup at 24.5 feet with a seating capacity of 18 and 4,700 pounds of ballast\u2014the result is a compelling platform that opens the premium towboat market to an entirely new segment of boating enthusiasts.<\/p>\n \u201cThis partnership represents an exciting evolution in how we think about bringing new boaters into the premium towboat segment,\u201d said Ryan Lewis, Product Manager for Supra. \u201cThe Volvo Forward Drive gives boaters the confidence to make the transition from sterndrive platforms while experiencing the superior wake performance that Supra is known for. We\u2019re eliminating the intimidation factor and opening doors for more families to experience world-class towed water sports.\u201d<\/p>\n The Supra SE Forward Drive concept will make its debut at MRAA Dealer Week<\/a> in Tampa, Florida, December 7-10, 2025. This exclusive reveal will give marine retailers and industry professionals the first opportunity to experience this groundbreaking integration of Volvo Penta\u2019s innovative propulsion technology with Supra\u2019s premium towboat platform.<\/p>\n Volvo Penta <\/a>is a world-leading supplier of engines and complete power systems for marine and industrial applications. With a heritage of innovation spanning decades, Volvo Penta\u2019s Forward Drive technology has revolutionized the sterndrive market by enabling safe wakesurfing and delivering superior performance, efficiency, and versatility on the water.<\/p>\n Supra Boats, a division of Skier\u2019s Choice, has been at the forefront of premium water sports boats for years, known for its high quality, performance, and innovative design. With 20 consecutive Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards, Supra continues to push the boundaries of innovation and customer satisfaction, delivering exceptional experiences on the water. For more information, visit supraboats.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n The post First-Ever Forward Drive in a Dedicated Wakeboat<\/a> appeared first on Boating Mag<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\nRevolutionary Technology Meets Premium Performance<\/h2>\n
![\"Volvo](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/boatingmag.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/BTG1225-Forward-Drive-1-1024x768.jpg?resize=800%2C600&ssl=1\")
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\n Courtesy Volvo Penta<\/span><\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/section>\nConcept Debut at MRAA Dealer Week<\/h2>\n
About Volvo Penta<\/h2>\n
About Supra Boats<\/h2>\n